In continuous celebration of Women’s History Month, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite children’s books that empower girls and set a new standard for equality. It sends such a positive message about self-confidence. During her tenure at Edgenuity, Ashleigh was eager to support Where Learning Clicks and the team’s commitment to helping teachers and students meet important goals and explore their passions. Remember what inspired you when you were young. Reviews | "The illustrations are beautiful and so many important facts have been condensed to give the reader quick info about these incredible women. 12 empowering children’s books to add to little girls’ bookshelves. written by Elena Nicolaou. We call upon our sisters around the world to be brave – to embrace the strength within themselves and realize their full potential.” And the books can be biographical, informational, or just good fiction. You'll want to read these titles inspired by real women's lives year-round. Because, well, those little messages go a long way. 11 Great Books That Encourage Kid Empowerment. Reviews | “I cannot possibly say enough good things about this book! Diving Into the Wreck by Adrienne Rich Click Here To Buy Written during the Vietnam War, the feminist movement, and the civil rights movement, … In the classroom (and at home), providing empowering books for girls is one great place to start building literacy skills early on. An entertaining and colorful board book by author Karen Beaumont and illustrator Dave Catrow, I Like Myself! Glamour. Books with strong female characters. If you’d like to see even more, most of our top picks came from reading lists curated by multiple organizations, and those lists are available in our sources section below. A few months earlier, in October 2018, girls’ education advocate and former first lady Michelle Obama announced the launch of an international program called Girls Opportunity Alliance, which aims to support those working to educate girls around the world. Retrieved from https://www.todaysparent.com/family/books/books-about-strong-girls/#, Chapman, E. (2015, March 4). In no particular order, we’ve racked up top 10 inspirational books for women. The Finer Times. I think about where I would be in my life if I didn’t work hard in school and [hadn’t] had the opportunity to go to college and law school. I didn’t know much about these women growing up so I am glad that I get to share their stories with my daughter.” – Tasia T., Amazon Reviewer, Author | Andrea BeatyAge Range | 5+ Years. Retrieved from http://www.thefinertimes.com/Middle-Ages/education-in-the-middle-ages.html, Pak, E. (2018, September 4). written by. With charming and colorful illustrations by David Roberts and the option of project books (purchased separately) to accompany each story, Beaty’s creations are sure to inspire and encourage young girls to go after their dreams. See the top feminist books for children in this article that starts with simple board books for babies like the Little Feminist Board Book Set, and works up to 100 story collections for tweens like Rad American Women A-Z. A children’s book featuring forty inspiring African American women, including poet Maya Angelou, mathematician Katherine Johnson, and American activist Ruby Bridges, each biography is complemented with beautiful illustrations and empowering quotes. Turning the page. Have questions, tips, or suggestions? Available in hardcover, paperback, and as an e-book, Pankhurst also created an activity book with stickers and postcards. Barnes & Noble. When women became nuns to get a good education. Literacy is essential to helping women maintain their independence and livelihood. Retrieved from https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2012/10/15/turning-the-page, Anderson, K. (2018, March 8). Based on the latest social science about gender, we made a list of 12 books published in the last three years that help teach children gender equality, in time for the holiday gift-giving season. What exactly was it that men feared about women’s literacy? The Malala Fund. With her father, she established the Malala Fund, which is dedicated to giving every girl an opportunity to achieve the future she wants. The 4-Hour Workweek, by Timothy Ferriss ... Denise Duffield-Thomas is the money mindset mentor for the new wave of online female entrepreneurs. Photo Gallery. Retrieved from https://www.malala.org/newsroom/girl-advocate-guide, Levy, R. (2016). It’s impossible to pick just one of Andrea Beaty’s talented, award-winning children’s books, so we’re featuring both Rosie Revere, Engineer and Ada Twist, Scientist, two fantastic and delightful stories about girls pursuing their passions in the field of science. Here are 28 empowering books with strong female characters. x. 1. By Kalli Anderson March 8, 2019. 10 Women Empowerment Books to Read In Your 20’s 1. Heroes come in all sizes, shapes, and genders. In honor of National Reading Month, Women’s History Month, National Read Across America Day, Dr. Seuss Day, and the upcoming International Women’s Day on March 8th, we’re here to share a little bit of history on literacy and women’s history, plus 20 empowering books for girls and young women. The grand kids are huge fans.” – Patrice Budd, Amazon Reviewer, Author | Yangsook ChoiAge Range |  3+ Years. teaches young kids about the importance of self-esteem and loving everything about themselves. You may even find yourself purchasing a copy for your personal library! In these times, women writers were often considered to be foolish or insane, especially if they wrote about ideas that might be socially disruptive. Featured women include the likes of Rosa Parks, Anne Frank, Frida Kahlo, and Amelia Earhart. And all these things certainly did happen. The more that you read, the more things you will know. Exploring gender, bodies, and sexual orientation, this book discusses respect, boundaries, and safety … 11 young-adult books for stoking the feminist fire. 17 Children's Books To Read To Your Kids In Honor Of Women's History Month. In 2014, Malala received the Nobel Peace Prize and became the youngest Nobel laureate ever. Kid Books With Empowering Female Characters 20 Books For Kids With Empowering Female Characters. Michelle Obama is back and doing what she does best—standing up for girls. There are not many books out there that deal with Muslim women in a respectful way. Retrieved from https://www.glamour.com/story/michelle-obama-new-education-initiative-global-girls-alliance, Harrison, J. Retrieved from https://www.history.com/news/women-education-medieval-nuns-church, Pardi, E. (2017, September 27). In December 2018, the Malala Fund released its Girl Advocate Guide, a resource developed in 10 languages to help teach girls how to take action for their rights and education. Children’s Books with a Female-Lead Character of Color “We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back. A brief history of the beef against women reading. Featuring fifty notable women famed for math, engineering, tech, science, and more (think Katherine Johnson, a mathematician and African American woman who calculated the trajectory of the Apollo 11 mission), this children’s book is both educational and beautifully illustrated. The Handmaid's Tale (The Handmaid's Tale, #1) by. Grace For President, written by Kelly DiPucchio and illustrated by LeUyen Pham, tells the story of Grace, an African American girl who has decided she will someday become the first female president of the United States. Reviews | “I love reading this book with my daughter! But there was more to Babe than just sports. Margaret Atwood (Goodreads Author) (shelved 8 times as female-empowerment) avg rating 4.11 — 1,461,920 ratings — published 1985. Here are 12 children's books we think every young girl should have: 1. From Goodreads:. Available in hardcover and paperback. Most children also would not remember a time when finding female heroes in literature for any age was rare. 4 life lessons I learned from reading Dr. Seuss books. Acocella, J. Kayti Christian, a staff writer for The Good Trade, is a storyteller, creator, activist, and avid traveler hailing from Colorado, now living in London. Retrieved from https://www.malala.org/malalas-story, Marshall, A. It is time for girl power. Our Site will occasionally contain (paid) links to, and quotation of, material from other sites. Additionally, it’s just as important to provide these same books to boys, too, to further normalize images of girls and women as powerful, strong role models. International Journal of Early Years Education, 24(3), 279–293. It’s also worth noting that many book publishers began putting out small, more affordable versions of books that women could easily conceal from disapproving husbands. For further teaching resources, NEA has also compiled many K–12 activities for teaching women’s history, as has Edutopia, and here’s how you can empower girls and young women to pursue STEM. More from Books & Art. When buying books for little girls, don't be lazy. The National Education Association’s (NEA) Read Across America program raises awareness about literacy and calls for every child in every community to celebrate reading all year long. Reviews | “As a second grade teacher, I read this to my class every year because I love the story and the beautiful message it presents…This is such a great multicultural story and a great way to explore a different culture, Korean, and my students love learning some of the tidbits of information about Korea revealed through the story.” – Olivia Stabler, Amazon Reviewer, Author | Rachel IgnotofskyAge Range | 10+ Years. How Technology Improves Teacher-Student Relationships. And to help inspire the young women in your life, we’ve compiled 8 of our favorite girl power books. Author | Vashti HarrisonAge Range | 8+ Years. The Seven Chinese Sisters, by Kathy Tucker and Grace Lin Girls need to see the power of their own hard work and determination, but they also need to see the strength that comes in working together as women. A New York Times Bestseller and #1 seller on Amazon, Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky is the perfect book for adolescence, specifically young girls interested in science. Annually, schools and libraries across the nation celebrate Read Across America Day on (or near) March 2nd, the birthday of children’s author Dr. Seuss. Girls are there to be saved by a handsome prince and boys have adventures and battle dragons. Bust. (2016, March 8). Let your kids' voices be heard! + Bonus book. It's a great book for women and girls, but I think it's important for men and boys to read about the accomplishments of these women and the obstacles they had to overcome because of gender bias." Because many of the students at her new school are unable to pronounce her name, Unhei struggles to belong. A captivating and educational read, Little Leaders: Bold Women In Black History by Vashti Harrison tells of the iconic and lesser-known female figures of American black history. There are still more than 400 million women worldwide who can’t read. She helps women release their fear of money and take back control over their finances. Check your inbox for a confirmation email! In a 2010 message from the United Nations, then Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, “Every literate woman marks a victory over poverty.”. Retrieved from https://readingpartners.org/blog/4-lessons-dr-seuss/, Hess, A. Retrieved from https://news.un.org/en/story/2010/09/350122-literacy-has-empowering-effect-women-un-officials-say#.Vt35v-bLlgx, Malala’s Story. More specifically, men feared women’s reading would lead them to think independently, imagine a different life for themselves, stand up against men, and no longer yearn for their approval. Ashleigh graduated from Arizona State University with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Women and Gender Studies. It’s hard to determine even an estimate of how many girls and women in early-modern societies could read and write, but it is known that women’s reading was disapproved of and barred for a long time. Books & Art. By Cory Silverberg, illustrated by Fiona Smyth; Ages 8-10; An award-winning comic book, Sex is a Funny Word provides a comprehensive look at what the word “sex” means, in particular, for a diverse cast of characters. So, whether you’re a teacher or a parent, a relative or friend, take a look at these fantastic books for gifts, classroom additions, and bedtime tales. An excellent, rallying cry of a book. (2018, February 26). The NEA says. It’s imperative—and it’s my passion and my mission—that every girl on the planet has the same opportunity that I have and my daughters have. In addition to writing, a few of Ashleigh’s favorite things include rock climbing, chocolate, and cats. Unlike most picture books about elections, it shows the electoral college in a way that students can understand. Sex is a Funny Word: A Book About Bodies, Feelings and You. 6 Empowering Books for Little Girls. Most importantly, they remind children that every person is wonderful and capable of great things. Because of her young age though, she begins her political career by campaigning for president at her primary school. Both books are available in hardcover, paperback, e-book, and on Audible. March 25, 2016. She is currently pursuing her MA in Creative Nonfiction Writing at City, University of London. It is available in hardcover, paperback, and as a board book. Today’s Parent. Little Leaders is available in hardcover or on Audible. This is a perfect book to read-aloud and teach with!” – Heather Brown, Amazon Reviewer, Author | Kate PankhurstAge Range | 5+ Years. Introduce your little one to Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—the pioneers of girl power! A captivating and educational read, Little Leaders: Bold Women In Black History by Vashti Harrison tells of the iconic and lesser-known female figures of American black history. A collection of picture books ranging in reading levels, these works are equally darling and educational, not to mention inclusive of breathtaking illustrations. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go. 50 crucial feminist YA novels. I have purchased copies for every gift I can, and donated them to my grandchildren's schools as well. (n.d.) The Malala Fund. Fortunately, despite obstacles, educating girls continues to be at the forefront for many. A historical reflection on literacy, gender and opportunity: Implications for the teaching of literacy in early childhood education. Today, children's literature presents an introduction to a world of possibilities for young girls and boys. During the Middle Ages, girls and women had little to no chance of getting an education, especially if they came from a peasant background. The Strategist. Move over damsels in distress and delicate princesses in pink. The illustrations are by female artists and the stories about each woman are told in a storybook format. Seeds of Literacy. Excellent, excellent story and illustrations. Author's Instagram; Author's Twitter; Author's LinkedIn; Michelle Guerrere has a degree in journalism and nearly a decade of experience covering fashion, beauty, lifestyle for a variety of digital and print publications. 4.9 out of 5 stars 2,130. Subscribe to our newsletter to never miss another article! Retrieved from https://www.readacrossamerica.org/, Stiefvater, S. (2017, April 12). (2017, January 30). Written and illustrated by Yangsook Choi, an award-winning Korean American female author, The Name Jar tells the story of Unhei, a new girl at school who just moved from Korea to the USA. Under no circumstances does The Good Trade accept responsibility for, nor shall The Good Trade be liable for any damages or detriment arising out of content, practices, or other media of third party links. ... Olympic medalist, and top female golfer. And research shows that a woman’s reading skill greatly influences the academic success of her children, should she choose to become a mother. In 1608 at the age of 14, Sister Juliana Morell earned what is believed to be the first university degree earned by a woman in the Western world. Women In Sport: 50 Fearless Athletes Who Play To Win. Little Leaders: Bold Women In Black History, Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World. —Dr. It’s no coincidence that many of the earliest women intellectuals were nuns, as these women were encouraged to further their education to understand biblical teachings. Girls and women of the upper class could earn an education in some cases, but their learning was very limited and controlled, and was intended only to prepare them for being respectable wives and mothers. In simple terms, not even a quarter of the "best children's books of all time" are about a female character, let alone a non-binary character. That being said, research shows that many children’s books perpetuate stereotypical gender constructions, so when adding empowering books for girls to your classroom library, look for inclusive books that encourage uniqueness, respect, diversity, self-identity, and empathy, and also feature characters of color and different abilities. 3 Dr. Seuss books that contain profound lessons for your toddler. Penguin Random House/Little Brown Young Readers Celebrate Women's History Month during family reading time with the books … We would), make it a piece of literature that sustains and empowers women. When Gutenberg’s printing press made books easier to get ahold of in the 15th century, more and more women began spending time with them. We'd love to hear from you! During a panel discussion on “The Power of an Educated Girl,” Obama said. Retrieved from https://www.barnesandnoble.com/blog/teen/50-crucial-feminist-ya-novels/. A recent report found that girls begin to believe they are innately less talented than boys by the age of six.. Books are a good way to help your kids question gender stereotypes and encourage girls to see themselves as brave, inventive and clever. Retrieved from https://slate.com/human-interest/2012/10/a-woman-reader-by-belinda-jack-women-s-books-have-always-been-marginalized-from-the-roman-empire-to-chick-lit.html, Jarema, K. (2017, March 7). As they mature, they can look out on the plethora of female role models who came before them. (2018, October 11). Eventually, many men gave up on the idea of forbidding women from reading, and began publishing “helpful advice” books they thought would have a “good influence” on women. Reading Partners. Inspiring, educational, and interactive, every page is full of color and includes facts about the brave women who’ve changed history. The accessibility of literature via inexpensive magazines, “commercial lending libraries,” and well-located bookshops, plus the increasing spread of compulsory education, led to wider-spread literacy across both sexes, and the novel became hugely popular during the nineteenth century. Paired with Ignotofsky’s I Love Science self-discovery journal, Women In Science (available in hardcover and as an e-book) belongs on every girl’s nightstand. For instance, after 15-year-old Malala Yousafzai was shot in the head for speaking out on behalf of girls and their right to learn, she carried on fighting for that right. 10 books every teenage girl should read. The Good Trade is not responsible for the content or the privacy practices of other sites and expressly disclaims any liability arising out of such content or practices. 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars. Seuss, I Can Read With My Eyes Shut! History. Eventually, Unhei is encouraged by new friends to share with others the meaning of her name and help them to pronounce it correctly. Jun 11, 2015 - These are books that will empower our girls to grow up and be strong leaders. The Princess and the Pit Stop. 28 empowering books with strong female characters. Retrieved from https://aleteia.org/2017/09/27/3-dr-seuss-books-that-contain-profound-lessons-for-your-toddler/, Read Across America. It’s great too see more books out there about amazing women. The Good Trade covers conscious fashion, beauty, food, wellness, travel and lifestyle. Retrieved from https://www.seedsofliteracy.org/literacy-women-equality/, Newman, S. (n.d.) Education in the Middle Ages. From designers to missionaries, artists to scientists, each book highlights the incredible things that person went on to do whilst reminding us that they began life as a child with a big dream. Paradise Beneath Her Feet: How Women are Transforming the Middle East by Isobel Coleman looks at women’s relationship with Islam and how that is empowering them. 5.Little Feminist Board Book Set by Galison and Emily Kleinman, illus by Lydia Ortiz Feminist artists, leaders, activists, and pioneers, all rolled into one convenient—and beautiful—boxed set. While progress has been made in our lifetimes (and by our predecessors) to improve literacy for girls and women, the journey is far from over. (2012, October 15). When one sister is taken by a dragon, the six others must band together to save her. She spent over three years in higher education developing resources and helping students succeed in online courses. Copyright © document.write(new Date().getFullYear()) Edgenuity, Inc. We gather information from educators, innovators, and leaders about the latest ideas and trends in education and edtech to fuel success for every student, teacher, and administrator. Early fearers believed reading could endanger a woman’s mental or physical health. By Niki McGloster. Reviews | “This book is completely adorable. Here is a list of books with strong female characters and unconventional stories that every girl should read. ... Part of: ABC for Me (5 Books) | by Sugar Snap Studio and Jessie Ford | Oct 2, 2018. Children’s media and books are packed with gender stereotypes: princesses waiting for Prince Charming, fairies dressed in pink and sparkles and … To celebrate Read Across America Day and Dr. Seuss Day, here are some of Dr. Seuss’s most inspiring messages, plus 20 empowering books for girls, boys, and young adults that feature strong girls and feminine characters in leading roles: These lists of empowering books for girls and young women barely scrape the surface of the incredibly vast and diverse library that’s out there. And, if you love this book, check out Fantastically Great Women Who Made History, also by Pankhurst and released this past February. It also encourages children to be kind to one another, and to respect differences in physical appearance and/or abilities. Slate. 45 New Books To Read Right Now. Conversely, if their books seemed to make sense, many then believed the books were actually written, secretly, by men. Want to Read. Living History: Dr. Mae Jemison, 7 Must-Know Facts about NASA's 1st Black Female Astronaut Something's Not Right: My Experience with Postpartum Preeclampsia 20 Awesome Children's Books That Will Empower and Inspire Your Child We especially love the diverse lineup in this 32-page read. Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali See inside the book and learn page count, dimensions, and featured women in the books that make comparing and finding the right feminist book for kids, easy. From real-life women like Maya Angelou and Anne Frank to fictional heroines like Rosie Revere and Ada Twist, these books encourage respect, passion, kindness, and empathy. Bustle. Also by Ignotofsky, Women In Sport: 50 Fearless Athletes Who Play To Win, is equally inspiring for the little athletes in your life. (2012, October 11). (2010, September 8). 1 / 28 Photo: Abrams Books for Young Readers. 18 Female Empowerment Books Every Woman Should Read The future is female. Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In is a massive cultural phenomenon and its title has become an instant catchphrase for empowering women.The book soared to the top of bestseller lists internationally, igniting global conversations about women and ambition.