15 Books for All Ages to Celebrate Women’s History Month
While every day is a chance to celebrate the achievements of inspiring women, Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day on March 8th offer a special opportunity to reflect on the groundbreaking contributions women have made throughout history. We’ve shaped the world in countless ways and continue to do so every day.
Take some time with your kids this month to explore the incredible stories of women who’ve made a lasting impact. Here are some amazing books for all ages to celebrate, learn from, and be inspired by the women who have made history!
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Think Big, Little One by Vashti Harrison
Ages baby-3 years
This board book version of Little Dreamers: Visionary Women Around the World is the perfect way to introduce young kids to incredible women who changed the world. With colorful illustrations and simple text, Think Big, Little One features eighteen inspiring women, from artists like Mary Blair, who shaped early animated films, to activist Wangari Maathai and architect Zaha Hadid.
The illustrations make these amazing women feel both relatable and inspiring, and encourage little dreamers to believe in their own potential. It’s a beautiful way to inspire the next generation to think big and follow their own amazing ideas.
Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice by Nikki Grimes, Illustrated by Laura Freeman
Ages 3-10
This picture book takes kids on a journey through the life of Kamala Harris, from her childhood in Oakland to becoming the first woman, first Black person, and first South Asian American Vice President of the United States. Kamala’s story shows how her belief in freedom and justice for all shaped her path, from standing up for equal access to a soccer field as a kid, to speaking out for others as a senator.
This book brings Kamala’s story to life in a way that inspires kids to believe in their own ability to make a difference. It’s a wonderful way to share the story of someone who truly changed history.
She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World by Chelsea Clinton and Illustrated by Alexandra Boiger
Ages 4 to 8
Throughout the history of the United States, women have stood up for what was right, even when people tried to silence them. These awe-inspiring women never took no for an answer and persisted in more ways than one: through their words, actions, and undying spirit.
Written by Chelsea Clinton and illustrated by Alexandra Boiger, this moving picture book relays the message that persistence is power. It insists that women stand tall and proud against those who have told them to quiet down, stand smaller or accept things as they are. Some of the amazing women featured include Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, Nellie Bly, Claudette Colvin, Ruby Bridges, Oprah Winfrey and Sonia Sotomayor.
13 American Women Who Changed the World is one of many books in the She Persisted series. Be sure to check them all out here.
Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly and Illustrated by Laura Freeman
Ages 4 to 8
Based on the New York Times bestselling book and the Academy Award-nominated movie, Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race tells the story of how four math whizzes overcame gender and racial barriers to succeed in a highly competitive field dominated by male counterparts.
They persisted in spite of other people’s opinions about them and contributed to some of NASA’s greatest achievements. This book is a reminder that anyone has the power to change the world with hard work and dedication.
Like a Girl by Lori Degman and Illustrated by Mara Penny
Ages 4 to 8
Once upon a time, in a land not so far away (unfortunately), the phrase “like a girl” was considered insulting. But the tables have turned!
From Rosa Parks who stayed seated to stand up for her rights to astronaut Sally Ride who quite literally reached for the stars, Like A Girl tells stories of 24 women who persisted and succeeded against all odds. This book is a one-of-a-kind celebration of girl power!
I Am Jazz by Jessica Herthel and Jazz Jennings and Illustrated by Shelagh McNicholas
Ages 4 to 8
I am Jazz tells the story of Jazz Jennings, a spokesperson for transgender children everywhere. This simple picture book paints an image of Jazz’s real-life experiences as a transgender child.
I am Jazz highlights the unique journey Jazz has taken to become the person she is today, and is a must-read for people of all ages. I am Jazz is also a TV show on TLC, so be sure to check it out.
Jovita Wore Pants: The Story of a Mexican Freedom Fighter by Aida Salazar and Illustrated by Molly Mendoza
Ages 6 to 9
Jovita dreamed of wearing pants. She wanted to find adventure, try new activities, and be comfortable and confident in her clothing. She had become sick and tired of following the conventions of society, and of wearing the big skirts she was expected to wear.
When her father and brothers joined the Cristero War in pursuit of religious freedom, Jovita was enthusiastic about getting involved; however, she was forbidden by her family.
This true story is a remarkable account of a young woman defying the odds to find her true potential and passion… all while wearing pants!
I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark by Debbie Levy and Illustrate by Elizabeth Baddeley
Ages 6 to 10
According to the Notorious RBG, disagreeing does not mean that you are disagreeable! Even before she became Supreme Court Justice, Ruth Bader Ginsburg often found herself entangled in debates about topics of all kinds.
She was committed to speaking out against injustice and being a voice for people who couldn’t find their own. This biographical picture book tells the story of RBG and her many famous dissents.
Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls (New Edition) by Elena Favilli & Francesca Cavallo
Release Date: March 4, 2025
Ages 8-12
This updated edition of Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls offers a collection of over 100 stories about inspiring women and girls from around the world. With 22 new stories added, this version highlights the achievements of well-known figures like Cleopatra, Amelia Earhart, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, alongside lesser-known but equally remarkable individuals such as Colombian spy Policarpa Salavarrieta and Mexican doctor Matilde Montoya.
The book introduces stories of modern changemakers like Greta Thunberg, Michelle Yeoh, and Taylor Swift, each written in the signature Rebel Girls style of biographical, real-world fairy tales. Aimed at young readers, this edition encourages a sense of possibility, showcasing the power of creativity, courage, and determination in shaping history.
Amina’s Voice by Hena Khan
Ages 8 to 12
Amina’s Voice illustrates how powerful one young woman’s voice can be in uniting a diverse community. This book analyzes the social pressures that children feel in middle school to “fit in” and “be popular.”
For Amina, middle school opened a whole new can of worms. Between her best friend wanting to become more “American” and an act of hatred that threatens her local mosque, Amina questions her identity as a young Pakistani American.
The novel sheds light on the joys and challenges young Pakistani American women face in society.
Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhhà Lai
Ages 9 to 12
The book is a poetic masterpiece, told from the point of view of a young lady, who was forced to flee Vietnam with her family when Saigon fell. She has to leave her home and everything she knows behind.
The protagonist embarks on a terrific journey of grief, new beginnings, and change.
I am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai and Christina Lamb
Ages 12 and up
Malala Yousafzai refused to be silenced when the Taliban took over the Swat Valley in Pakistan. She continued to speak up and fought for her right to an education. When Malala was fifteen, she was shot in the head at point-blank range by the Taliban. She was on her way home from school; a place many of us in the U.S. take for granted.
I am Malala is a special tale of a young woman who survived against all odds and continued to use her voice to advocate for girls’ education. Malala Yousafzai was the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, and continues to be a symbol of peaceful protest and equal education for all. This book shows how if you believe in yourself and the cause you are advocating for, you can inspire change anywhere.
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Ages 14 and up
**Also available as a Young Readers edition adapted for children ages 10+
In this deeply personal memoir, former First Lady Michelle Obama takes readers on a journey through her life, from growing up on the South Side of Chicago to becoming the first African American First Lady of the United States. Becoming reveals the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way—balancing motherhood, work, and public life with grace and resilience.
With candid honesty and genuine warmth, Michelle reflects on the moments that shaped her, from her early years to her time in the White House, where she advocated for healthier living, supported women and girls, and raised her daughters in the public eye. Now available in paperback and as a Young Readers edition, Becoming is an inspiring read about a woman who has defied expectations and continues to motivate others to live authentically and boldly.
We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Ages 16 and up
This personal, coherent, and lively essay is an adaptation from Adichie’s TedTalk of the same name. The essay offers readers with Adichie’s unique perspective on feminism in the twenty-first century, one of inclusion and awareness, that originated through her life experiences.
Instances of discrimination at many levels of society are described to help readers understand the realities of sexual politics and institutional practices that marginalize women around the world. This call-to-action book expertly answers the question: Why should we all be feminists?
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
Ages 17 and up
This book contains some advanced and complex topics. Some content may be triggering for readers. Research before reading.
Henrietta Lacks: does that name ring a bell? What about HeLa? HeLa cells?
Henrietta Lacks was a poor Southern tobacco farmer. She was diagnosed with cervical cancer in the 1950s and sadly passed away at a young age. Without her knowledge, Henrietta’s cells were taken. HeLa cells continue to serve as one of the most important tools in medicine: they were critical in developing the polio vaccine, and making strides in cancer research and in vitro fertilization. HeLa cells are the first “immortal” human cells.
They have been bought and sold over and over again; however, there is one catch: Henrietta’s family did not learn about the “immortal” HeLa cells until years after Henrietta passed. Author Rebecca Skloot takes readers on a remarkable journey that uncovers the secrets surrounding the mysterious “immortal” cells of Henrietta Lacks.
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