30 Inspiring Kids books for Women's History Month
These books offer a diverse range of stories about remarkable trailblazing women from various backgrounds who have made significant contributions to history. They are perfect for educating and inspiring young readers during Women's History Month and beyond.
30 Inspiring Kids books for Women's History Month
Using women's history books for kids in the classroom and at home can be a powerful way to educate children about the accomplishments and contributions of women throughout history. Here are some tips for effectively incorporating these children's book options into educational settings:
Women’s History Kids Books In the Classroom:
Select Age-Appropriate Books: Choose children's books that are appropriate for the age and reading level of your students. There are women's history books available for various age groups, from picture books for young children to chapter books for older students.
Incorporate into Curriculum: Integrate women's history books into your curriculum to align with relevant topics and subjects. For example, if you're teaching about historical events, find books that highlight women's roles in those events.
Diverse Representation: Ensure that the books you choose represent a diverse range of women from different backgrounds, cultures, and time periods. This helps students understand the intersectionality of women's experiences.
Discussion and Reflection: After reading, engage students in discussions about the book's content. Encourage them to reflect on the challenges women faced and the impact of their achievements. Discuss how these stories relate to contemporary issues.
Activities and Projects: Design activities or projects that relate to the book. For example, students could create posters, presentations, or essays about the women they've read about, or even write letters to the author or characters.
Guest Speakers: If possible, invite guest speakers or experts in women's history to share their knowledge and experiences with students. This can provide a real-world connection to the stories in the books.
Empowerment: Use these books as tools for empowerment. Encourage students to identify qualities and values they admire in the women featured in the books and discuss how they can incorporate these into their own lives. Even students of a young age can identify characteristics in the women in these books.
Women’s History Kids Books At Home:
Family Reading Time: Make reading women's history books a family activity. Set aside time for family members to read and discuss these books together.
Role Models: Use these books to introduce your children to female role models they can look up to. Discuss the qualities and achievements of these women.
Create a Home Library: Build a collection of women's history books at home, so children can explore these stories at their own pace. Rotate the books to keep their interest.
Educational Trips: Plan trips to museums, historical sites, or events related to women's history. These outings can complement what children learn from books.
Hands-On Learning: Encourage hands-on learning by engaging in activities that relate to the stories in the books. For example, if reading about a scientist, conduct simple science experiments together.
Journaling and Art: Have children keep a journal or create art inspired by the women they learn about. This helps reinforce their understanding and allows for creative expression.
Critical Thinking: Encourage critical thinking by asking questions like "Why do you think this woman's story is important?" or "What challenges did she overcome?"
Celebrate Women's History Month: Dedicate the month of March to exploring women's history books, discussing notable women, and maybe even organizing a family event or project related to women's history.
By incorporating women's history books into both the classroom and home environments, you can help children gain a deeper appreciation for the accomplishments of women throughout history and inspire them to be advocates for gender equality and empowerment. Use these books on International Women's Day as well in the classroom and at home. But do not stop using these books after those celebrations, fill your shelves with inspiring tales of famous women and major events that happened and how big dreams can impact action.
30 Inspiring Kids books for Women's History Month
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Here is a list of 30 Women's History Month books for kids, along with a brief description and a review for each:
"I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark" by Debbie Levy
Description: This picture book biography tells the story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a Supreme Court Justice in the United States who championed women's rights.
Review: "A beautifully illustrated and empowering book that teaches kids about the importance of standing up for what's right."
2. "Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History" by Vashti Harrison
Description: This book introduces young readers to influential black women who made history. An important book for all ages, Little Leaders educates and inspires as it relates true stories of forty trailblazing black women in American history. Illuminating text paired with irresistible illustrations bring to life both iconic and lesser-known female figures of Black history such as abolitionist Sojourner Truth, pilot Bessie Coleman, chemist Alice Ball, politician Shirley Chisholm, mathematician Katherine Johnson, poet Maya Angelou, and filmmaker Julie Dash.
Review: "An essential read that celebrates the accomplishments of black women throughout history."
3. "Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World" by Cynthia Chin-Lee
Description: Each letter of the alphabet is associated with a woman who made significant contributions to history. Twenty-six amazing women; twenty-six amazing stories. From writers to scientists, sports figures to politicians, this diverse collection highlights women who changed the world.
Review: "A clever way to teach kids about diverse women who shaped our world."
4. "Shaking Things Up: 14 Young Women Who Changed the World" by Susan Hood
Description: This book showcases 14 young women who defied expectations and made a difference. Readers will also hear about Molly Williams, Annette Kellerman, Nellie Bly, Pura Belpré, Frida Kahlo, Jacqueline and Eileen Nearne, Frances Moore Lappé, Mae Jemison, Angela Zhang, and Malala Yousafzai—all whose stories will enthrall and inspire. This poetry collection was written, illustrated, edited, and designed by women
Review: "Inspiring and beautifully illustrated, this book motivates young girls to pursue their dreams."
5. “She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World" by Chelsea Clinton
Description: Chelsea Clinton profiles 13 American women who overcame adversity to achieve greatness. With vivid, compelling art by Alexandra Boiger, this book shows readers that no matter what obstacles may be in their paths, they shouldn't give up on their dreams. Persistence is power.
This book features: Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, Clara Lemlich, Nellie Bly, Virginia Apgar, Maria Tallchief, Claudette Colvin, Ruby Bridges, Margaret Chase Smith, Sally Ride, Florence Griffith Joyner, Oprah Winfrey, Sonia Sotomayor.Review: "A must-read for girls and boys, teaching them about resilience and determination."
6. "Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race" by Margot Lee Shetterly
Description: This picture book tells the true story of the African American women mathematicians who played a crucial role at NASA. They participated in some of NASA's greatest successes, like providing the calculations for America's first journeys into space. And they did so during a time when being black and a woman limited what they could do. But they worked hard. They persisted. And they used their genius minds to change the world.
Review: "A captivating story that highlights the often-overlooked contributions of these remarkable women."
7. "Who Was Marie Curie?" by Megan Stine
Description: Part of the "Who Was?" series, this book explores the life and achievements of nobel prize winner Marie Curie.
Review: "A great introduction to the life of a groundbreaking scientist for young readers."
8. "Malala's Magic Pencil" by Malala Yousafzai
Description: Malala's autobiography for young readers, where she shares her story and her belief in the power of education. This is a wonderful read for younger students that will also provide insight and encourage discussion about the wider world. ... The simplicity of Yousafzai's writing and the powerful message she sends, make this book inspirational for all.
Review: "A touching and inspiring account of Malala's journey to promote education and equality."
9. "Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code" by Laurie Wallmark
Description: The inspiring story of Grace Hopper—the boundary-breaking woman who revolutionized computer science—is told told in an engaging picture book biography.
Review: "A fantastic book that encourages young minds to explore the world of coding and technology."
Description: This book tells the true story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama. Audrey Faye Hendricks was confident and bold and brave as can be, and hers is the remarkable and inspiring story of one child’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Review: "A powerful reminder that even young voices can make a big impact."
11. "The Watcher: Jane Goodall's Life with the Chimps" by Jeanette Winter
Description: The story of Jane Goodall, a renowned primatologist, and her work with chimpanzees. Follow Jane from her childhood in London watching a robin on her windowsill, to her years in the African forests of Gombe, Tanzania, invited by brilliant scientist Louis Leakey to observe chimps, to her worldwide crusade to save these primates who are now in danger of extinction, and their habitat. Young animal lovers and Winter's many fans will welcome this fascinating and moving portrait of an extraordinary person and the animals to whom she has dedicated her life.
Review: "An engaging book that inspires children to appreciate and protect nature." The Watcher was named a Best Book of the Year by the Boston Globe, Kirkus Reviews, Booklist, and the Bank Street College of Education.
12."I Am Amelia Earhart" by Brad Meltzer
Description: This book from the "Ordinary People Change the World" series focuses on the life of Amelia Earhart. This biography follows her from childhood to her first flying lessons and onward to her multi-record-breaking career as a pilot.
Review: "A great way to introduce young readers to a pioneering aviator's adventurous spirit."
13. “The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin" by Julia Finley Mosca
Description: A biography tells the story of Dr. Temple Grandin, a scientist and advocate for people with autism. Her unique mind allowed her to connect with animals in a special way, helping her invent groundbreaking improvements for farms around the globe.
Review: "A beautifully illustrated book that celebrates neurodiversity."
14. "The Story of Ruby Bridges" by Robert Coles
Description: This book tells the true story of Ruby Bridges, the first African American child to attend an all-white school in the South. Ruby's story of courage, faith, and hope continues to resonate more than 60 years later.
Review: "A powerful story of courage and resilience, perfect for teaching kids about the Civil Rights Movement."
15. "Sonia Sotomayor: A Judge Grows in the Bronx" by Jonah Winter
Description: The inspiring and timely story of Sonia Sotomayor, who rose up from a childhood of poverty and prejudice to become the first Latino to be nominated to the US Supreme Court. With hard work she succeeded. With little sunlight and only a modest plot from which to grow, Justice Sotomayor bloomed for the whole world to see.
Review: "A relatable and inspirational story for children of all backgrounds."
16."The Bravest Woman in America" by Marissa Moss
Description: This book tells the true story of Ida Lewis, who saved lives as a lighthouse keeper. Ida Lewis was dubbed “the Bravest Woman in America” and who was recognized with the Congressional Life Saving Medal and the American Cross of Honor, this inspiring and unforgettable tale of courage and real-life heroism is a tribute to brave women everywhere.
Review: "A captivating tale of bravery and determination that kids will love."
17. "Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers' Strike of 1909" by Michelle Markel
Description: The story of Clara Lemlich, a young immigrant girl who played a key role in the labor movement. The true story of the young immigrant who led the largest strike of women workers in U.S. history. This picture book biography about the plight of immigrants in America in the early 1900s and the timeless fight for equality and justice should not be missed.
Review: "A compelling narrative that introduces kids to the importance of workers' rights."
18. "Joan Procter, Dragon Doctor: The Woman Who Loved Reptiles" by Patricia Valdez
Description: A biography of Joan Procter, a pioneering herpetologist who worked with reptiles at the Natural History Museum in London.
Review: "A fascinating and beautifully illustrated book that encourages curiosity about the natural world."
19. "Mae Among the Stars" by Roda Ahmed
Description: This book is based on the life of Mae Jemison, the first African American woman astronaut. Little Mae’s curiosity, intelligence, and determination, matched with her parents' encouraging words, paved the way for her incredible success at NASA as the first African American woman to travel in space.
This book will inspire other young girls to reach for the stars, to aspire for the impossible, and to persist with childlike imagination.
Review: "An uplifting story about the power of dreams and perseverance."
20. "Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13" by Helaine Becker
Description: This book tells the story of Katherine Johnson, the African American mathematician who played a crucial role in the Apollo 13 mission. From Katherine's early beginnings as a gifted student to her heroic accomplishments as a prominent mathematician at NASA, Counting on Katherine is the story of a groundbreaking American woman who not only calculated the course of moon landings but, in turn, saved lives and made enormous contributions to history.
Review: "A mathematically inspiring book that showcases the importance of problem-solving."
21. "Shirley Chisholm Is a Verb!" by Veronica Chambers
Description: A lively picture book about Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to Congress. This dynamic biography illuminates how Chisholm was a doer, an active and vocal participant in our nation's democracy, and a force to be reckoned with. Now young readers will learn about her early years, her time in Congress, her presidential bid and how her actions left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire, uplift, and instruct.
Review: "A dynamic tribute to a trailblazing politician who broke barriers."
22. "Mama Miti: Wangari Maathai and the Trees of Kenya" by Donna Jo Napoli
Description: This book tells the story of Wangari Maathai, an environmentalist who founded the Green Belt Movement in Kenya. Today, more than 30 million trees have been planted throughout Mama Miti’s native Kenya, and in 2004 she became the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Wangari Muta Maathai has changed Kenya tree by tree—and with each page turned, children will realize their own ability to positively impact the future.
Review: "An ecological and inspirational tale of one woman's dedication to the environment."
23. "Ada Lovelace, Poet of Science: The First Computer Programmer" by Diane Stanley
Description: This biography introduces Ada Lovelace, a mathematician and writer who is often regarded as the world's first computer programmer. A hundred years before the dawn of the digital age, Ada Lovelace envisioned the computer-driven world we know today. And in demonstrating how the machine would be coded, she wrote the first computer program. She would go down in history as Ada Lovelace, the first computer programmer.
Review: "A brilliant and poetic exploration of Ada's pioneering work in computer science."
Description: This poem-turned-picture book is a tribute to Rosa Parks and her role in the Civil Rights Movement. Fifty years after her refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama, city bus, Mrs. Rosa Parks is still one of the most important figures in the American civil rights movement. This tribute to Mrs. Parks is a celebration of her courageous action and the events that followed.
Review: "A moving and beautifully illustrated poem that honors a courageous woman."
25. "Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World's Fastest Woman" by Kathleen Krull
Description: The story of Wilma Rudolph, an African American athlete who overcame adversity to become an Olympic champion.
Review: "A tale of perseverance and determination that will inspire young athletes."
26. "Pies from Nowhere: How Georgia Gilmore Sustained the Montgomery Bus Boycott" by Dee Romito
Description: The true story of Georgia Gilmore, a cook who used her culinary skills to support the Montgomery Bus Boycott. When Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested for his role in the boycott, Georgia testified on his behalf, and her home became a meeting place for civil rights leaders. This picture book highlights a hidden figure of the civil rights movement who fueled the bus boycotts and demonstrated that one person can make a real change in her community and beyond. It also includes one of her delicious recipes for kids to try with the help of their parents!
Review: "A delicious blend of history and cooking that highlights the unsung heroes of the Civil Rights Movement."
27. "The Girl Who Ran: Bobbi Gibb, the First Woman to Run the Boston Marathon" by Frances Poletti and Kristina Yee
Description: The inspiring story of Bobbi Gibb, who defied gender norms to run the Boston Marathon. When Bobbi Gibb saw the Boston Marathon her mind was set-she had to be a part of it. But when the time came to apply for the marathon, she was refused entry. They told her girls don't run, girls can't run. That didn't stop Bobbi. This picture book tells the true story of how she broke the rules in 1966 and how, one step at a time, her grit and determination changed the world. Created in collaboration with Bobbi Gibb, The Girl Who Ran is perfect for would-be runners, kids of all ages, and everyone out there with a love of sport.
Review: "A tale of determination and breaking barriers that will resonate with young athletes."
28. "Bessie, Queen of the Sky" by Andrea Doshi and Jimena Duran
Description: This book celebrates Bessie Coleman, the first African American woman to hold a pilot's license. When Bessie was growing up, no one could have imagined that a girl from a humble family would get out of the cotton fields and become a pilot. But with the help of her best friend Bloony, Bessie used her courage and determination to make her dream come true!
Review: "A soaring tribute to a trailblazing aviator who inspires dreams of flight."
Read these amazing women’s rights books to the next generation of activists, trailblazers, and rabble-rousers.
How are you celebrating Women’s History Month and honoring all of the amazing women doing things today and in the past? How are you preparing the little women in your life to change the world?
