Celebrate Women’s History Month With Books for Young Readers

Every March since 1987, Women’s History Month has been a time for honoring the vital role of women throughout history. Many nationally renowned organizations contribute to the celebration of women in American history, like the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian Institution and the National Park Service.

Not only is this month for recognizing women who have helped change the world, but also for taking time to celebrate the women and girls in our own lives and working to empower the next generation. The following list of female-forward books can be read at home or in the classroom to spark meaningful discussion and grow empathy, pride and respect among all kids.

Books for Elementary-Age Readers

“Girls Can Do Anything” by Caryl Hart

This special book celebrates all the different things girls can do, whatever their ambitions may be. Whether the reader dreams of being a veterinarian, a firefighter, an astronaut, a writer, an athlete or anything else they can think of, this book colorfully illustrates that girls can be anything they want in life.

“Fantastically Great Women” (series) by Kate Pankhurst

In this inspiring series, young readers are taken on a journey of how fantastically great women have used their talents to follow their dreams, make history and change the world. From scientists and inventors to artists and activists, these books highlight the brilliant women who have made astounding contributions to humankind.

“I Am Ruby Bridges” by Ruby Bridges

In 1960, 6-year-old Ruby Bridges became the first Black student to integrate into an all-white elementary school, making history with her unmatched courage. This unique autobiography is geared toward younger readers and offers a firsthand understanding of Bridges’ experience as a curious and compassionate child who became a pivotal icon in the Civil Rights Movement.

“Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race” by Margot Lee Shetterly

In this groundbreaking tale, young readers are introduced to the stories of Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson and Christine Darden, and their immense contributions to science, aeronautics and space exploration that were once hidden. These remarkable women persisted in the face of segregation, sexism and racism in the workplace, and thanks to their exceptional work, NASA propelled the first American into orbit in 1962.

“Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist” by Jess Keating

This is the story of Eugenie Clark, the girl who fell in love with sharks from an early age and grew to be an exceptional and daring scientist. Learning that many people find these creatures scary and ugly, she set out to prove them wrong, devoting her life to learning about these majestic animals and making countless oceanic discoveries along the way.

Books for Middle School-Age Readers

“Women’s Right to Vote (Cornerstones of Freedom)” by Peter Benoit

In this book, the reader learns about the history of women’s suffrage, or their right to vote — a freedom that was not always granted to women in the United States. For decades, women fought tirelessly for this civil liberty that was not granted until 1920 with the passage of the 19th Amendment. Uncover the perseverance that paved the way for women to take on essential roles in today’s government.

“What Would She Do?: 25 True Stories of Trailblazing Rebel Women” by Kay Woodward

For centuries, women have been bold and daring enough to defy unfair and unjust stereotypes, breaking barriers and creating a better life for those who came after them. In this motivating journey, read the stories of 25 famous women who changed history, accomplished amazing things and overcame challenges that many women and girls around the world still face today.

“The Hidden Girl: A True Story of the Holocaust” by Lola Rein Kaufman and Lois Metzger

This powerful narrative tells the tale of Lola, a young Jewish girl who struggles to survive during the Holocaust. After her mother is killed, Lola goes into hiding with a Ukrainian woman. After nearly being caught, she finds another family to hide with, battling extreme cold and hunger, as well as the constant threat of discovery. Follow her harrowing tale and learn about the resilience of one incredible girl.

“Roller Girl” by Victoria Jamieson

In this engaging graphic novel, 12-year-old Astrid is pulled away from her friend Nicole when she decides to attend roller derby camp after falling in love with the sport. During her summer away, she faces keeping up with the older girls, struggling to hang onto her childhood friendship and cautiously embarking on making a new friend. This story illustrates one girl growing up to realize she is strong enough to become exactly who she is supposed to be.

“Proud: Living My American Dream (Young Readers’)” by Ibtihaj Muhammad

This inspirational story chronicles the faith and perseverance of Olympic fencer and activist Ibtihaj Muhammad, who made history at the 2016 games as the first American to compete wearing a hijab. The reader learns Muhammad’s story through her own telling as she recounts growing up in suburban New Jersey, often being the only Black Muslim student in her classes. Rising above discrimination and intolerance, she became first Muslim American woman to win an Olympic medal.

Discover More Inspiring Stories

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