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When it comes to choosing books for your little one, you want to make sure you’re picking something that will not only entertain but also inspire.
Children’s books are such a great way to teach them about the world, and what better way than with stories of strong, brave women who changed history?
These books can help your child dream big, build empathy, and see the power of their own potential.
From overcoming obstacles to making a difference, these books give kids the tools to imagine themselves as anything they want to be.
So, what should you look for? Well, look for stories that are fun, easy to understand, and packed with heart like the ones in this post.
1. Fly, Girl, Fly! Shaesta Waiz Soars Around the World by Nancy Roe Pimm, Illustrated by Alexandra Bye
Shaesta Waiz went from being a refugee to flying solo around the world.
She broke barriers as the first Afghan woman to fly a plane around the globe and visited 22 countries.
This book teaches us about believing in ourselves, even when things seem impossible.
I think this story is perfect for inspiring young readers to chase their big dreams, no matter where they start.
2. Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist by Jess Keating, Illustrated by Marta Alvarez Miguens
Eugenie Clark was fascinated by sharks from a young age, and she grew up to become the Shark Lady.
She showed the world that sharks are misunderstood and incredibly interesting.
For kids, it’s a great way to spark curiosity about science, and I love how it celebrates a love for learning in such an adventurous way.
3. Maryam’s Magic: The Story of Mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani by Megan Reid, Illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel
Maryam Mirzakhani hated math at first, but then she realized math could be like telling stories with shapes.
Her love for math grew, and she became the first woman to win the Fields Medal.
This book is such a fun way to get kids to see that math can be magical and full of creativity.
It’s perfect for showing kids that math is way more fun than it sounds.
4. Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice by Nikki Grimes, Illustrated by Laura Freeman
Kamala Harris always stood up for what’s right, from her childhood marches to becoming the first woman vice president.
Her story is all about fighting for justice, equality, and speaking up for others.
I think it’s an amazing way to teach kids about bravery and standing up for what’s right, no matter how young they are.
5. Queen of Physics: How Wu Chien Shiung Helped Unlock the Secrets of the Atom by Teresa Robeson, Illustrated by Rebecca Huang
Wu Chien Shiung was told girls couldn’t be physicists, but she proved everyone wrong.
She helped make big discoveries in science and became known as the “Queen of Physics.”
This book is awesome for showing how determination can break down all kinds of barriers, and it’s so cool for kids to learn about science through the lens of such an inspiring woman.
6. I Am Malala Yousafzai by Brad Meltzer, Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos
Malala Yousafzai fought for girls to get an education, even after a terrible attack on her.
She’s a real-life hero who inspires kids to speak up for what’s right and never give up.
This book is a great way for children to understand the importance of education and equality and how powerful their voices can be.
7. A Girl Called Genghis Khan by Michelle Lord, Illustrated by Shehzil Malik
Maria Toorpakai Wazir wanted to play sports, but the Taliban didn’t want her to.
She didn’t give up, even when life got really tough.
Maria’s bravery and determination will definitely inspire young readers, showing them that standing up for what you love is always worth it.
It’s such a strong, empowering message!
8. My Name Is Bana by Bana Alabed, Illustrated by Nez Riaz
Bana Alabed’s story is heartbreaking but full of hope.
She shared what life was like for kids in war-torn Syria, and this gave a voice to so many children.
I think this book is an incredible way for young readers to learn about empathy and the importance of peace in such a personal way.
9. Seeds of Change: Wangari’s Gift to the World by Jen Cullerton Johnson, Illustrated by Sonia Lynn Sadler
Wangari Maathai loved trees and planted them to fight deforestation in Kenya.
She won the Nobel Peace Prize for her work.
This is a beautiful book for teaching kids how one person’s actions can help the planet and inspire others.
I love how it’s such a simple way to start teaching kids about environmentalism.
10. Nasreen’s Secret School: A True Story from Afghanistan by Jeanette Winter, Illustrated by Jeanette Winter
Nasreen couldn’t speak after her parents disappeared, but her grandmother sent her to a secret school and gave her hope for the future.
This touching story is a great way for kids to understand the importance of education and the power of perseverance.
It’s also a wonderful reminder of the life-changing power of love and learning.
11. The World Is Not A Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid by Jeanette Winter, Illustrated by Jeanette Winter
Zaha Hadid grew up dreaming of building cities, and even though it wasn’t easy, she became one of the world’s most famous architects.
I love how this book shows that girls can do anything they set their minds to, even in fields where they’re often told they don’t belong.
12. She Persisted Around The World: 13 Women Who Changed History by Chelsea Clinton, Illustrated by Alexandra Boiger
This book is a super fun way to learn about 13 incredible women from around the world who didn’t let anything stop them.
From science to activism, these women made history and inspired change.
I love how it encourages kids to keep going, even when people say they can’t.
13. Danza! Amalia Hernández and Mexico’s Folkloric Ballet by Duncan Tonatiuh, Illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh
Amalia Hernández brought Mexican folk dance to the world and she mixed ballet with traditional moves.
This book is such a celebration of culture and the power of dance to tell stories.
I think it’s a great way for kids to learn about the beauty of different cultures through art and movement.
14. One Wish: Fatima al-Fihri and the World’s Oldest University by M. O. Yuksel, Illustrated by Mariam Quraishi
Fatima al-Fihri had one wish: to create a school where everyone could learn.
Her dream turned into the world’s oldest university, which is still standing today.
This book shows how one person’s vision can change the world.
It’s such an inspiring story for kids about the power of education and never giving up on your dreams.
15. Harlem’s Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills by Renee Watson, Illustrated by Christian Robinson
Florence Mills used her beautiful voice to sing her way into Broadway, but she also fought for civil rights for Black performers.
This book is such a lovely way to teach kids about the importance of using your talents for good and standing up for what’s right.
Plus, it’s a great look at the Harlem Renaissance.
These women’s stories are perfect for showing your little ones that they can achieve anything if they set their minds to it.
What was your favorite book from this list?
Let me know in the comments below, and be sure to check out our other related posts for even more amazing book recommendations.
