By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: March 8, 2011
Our shared history unites families, communities, and nations. Although women’s history is intertwined with the history shared with men, several factors – social, religious, economic, and biological – have worked to create a unique sphere of women’s history. ~ The National Women’s History Project
by Margaret Cardillo (Author), Julia Denos (Illustrator)
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Balzer + Bray (January 25, 2011)
Source: Publisher
From her life as a child in Nazi occupied Europe to her rise to fame as an actress to her empowering work with UNICEF, Hepburn’s kindness and compassion has been highlighted clearly and carefully and will most definitely inspire young girls. The beautifully painted artwork truly captures the eloquence and signature style that exuded from Hepburn her entire life. Just Being Audrey certainly has a special je ne sais quoi.
Add this book to your collection: Just Being Audrey
by Jennifer Fosberry (Author), Mike Litwin (Illustrator)
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky; Reprint edition (September 1, 2010)
Source: Publisher
This picture book is a brilliant way to introduce young girls to some very wonderful women. It’s empowering and inspiring and a whole lot of fun. These are some of Isabella’s role models: U.S. Astronaut Sally Ride, activist Rosa Parks, and sharpshooter Annie Oakley.
Add this book to your collection: My Name Is Not Isabella: Just How Big Can a Girl Dream
by Candace Fleming
Reading level: Ages 8-12
Hardcover: 128 pages
Publisher: Schwartz & Wade (February 8, 2011)
Source: Publisher
Candace Fleming is a non-fiction writing master. There are many books about Amelia Earhart that have been written for children, however, it is Fleming’s ability to string readers along with the mystery of Earhart’s disappearance that makes this rendition a standout. Photographs, maps, and newspaper clippings are found on almost every page, which only enhance the reading experience.
Add this book to your collection: Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart
by John Miller (Author), Anjelica Huston (Introduction)
Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: New World Library (September 9, 2001)
Source: Library
This is a book from the adult world that crosses over nicely to the world of teens. It’s a collection of essays on remarkable women that have paved the way for the women of today. Each of the ladies have been dedicated a double page spread: one page for the text and the other for a beautiful black-on-white photograph. From Hellen Keller to Princess Diana to Oprah Winfrey, from fashion diva to chef to Nobel Peace Prize winner, with such a diverse group of women filling the pages of this book there is sure to be a personality to aspire to, and perhaps even inspire some continual research.
Add this book to your collection: Legends: Women Who Have Changed the World
Looking for more? Check out these five kids books that celebrate women, too.