Women’s History Month is a wonderful time to share the stories of remarkable women who girls can look up to. But girls also need to hear stories about the amazing things they can do while they’re young. Children of all genders will be inspired by these true stories of incredible girls, too!
Malala’s Magic Pencil, by Malala Yousafzai, illustrated by Kerascoët
Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala’s first picture book shares how she dreamed of making the world a better place as a girl growing up in Pakistan. When girls like her were barred from school, she put her dreams into action.
All the Way to the Top: How One Girl’s Fight for Americans with Disabilities Changed Everything, by Annette Bay Pimentel, illustrated by Nabi Ali
This tells the true story of Jennifer Keelan-Chaffin, a girl who uses a wheelchair, as she learns to raise her voice for disability rights.
Author Annette Bay Pimentel reads the book aloud, with American Sign Language interpretation, in this video celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act.
Child of the Flower-Song People: Luz Jiménez, Daughter of the Nahua, by Gloria Amescua, illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh
As a girl, Luz learns her people’s history, stories, and cultural knowledge. When the government opens a school for native children, they try to erase their culture, but Luz wants to protect the Nahua ways.
Sisters: Venus & Serena Williams, by Jeanette Williams
Growing up in Compton, California, the Williams sisters learn to play tennis on their neighborhood court. With the love and support of their family, they grow stronger as sisters and athletes.
Me . . . Jane, by Patrick McDonnell
As a little girl, conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall loved to play with her stuffed chimpanzee and dream of helping animals around the world. Goodall herself reads the book in this video!