Kids’ Books About Girls and Women Who Dared to Dream Big

A book list featuring girls and women who dared to dream big.
The Children’s Book Review

Four Girl Power Books That Inspire

Look out, world, girls are taking over! These inspiring books about girls and women who dared to dream big highlight historical figures, events, and careers. Prepare yourself for a solid dose of girl power!

Part of the Little People, BIG DREAMS series, this exquisitely illustrated book shares the story of the young Pakistani girl, Malala Yousafzai. She was an activist for all Pakistani girls who were not allowed to attend school because of the Taliban, “but Malala and her friends had books and pens to fight back with.” Although she faced challenges along the way, Malala eventually traveled the world to speak up about the right to attend school and became the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner to date!

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This Little Golden Book gem highlights the life of our first woman Vice President, Kamala Harris. Born to two successful immigrant parents, she grew up in California and Canada. Her childhood wasn’t always easy, but she overcame adversity and graduated from law school to right the wrongs in the world, which led her to the powerful position she holds today.

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Readers are introduced to this lesser-known true story of the 1887 Mayoral election in Argonia, Kansas. A group of men put a local woman’s name, Susanna “Dora” Salter, on the ballot as a prank. Susanna embraced this accidental challenge and ended up winning by a landslide! Dora tells this remarkable adventure to her grandson throughout the book, only for him to figure out that his grandma was the star of that election back in the day. A proud moment all around!

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Brenda Berkman doesn’t take lightly to the word “no.” After practicing law, she felt unfulfilled and looked to fill that void. She thought about being a firefighter, but the fitness test was made so difficult in order to discourage women. She fought the fire department and won. Her inner strength would continue to be tested at times, but she had paved the way for all women to fight for what they deserved.

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Kids’ Books About Girls and Women Who Dared to Dream Big was curated by Anna Iacovetta, Ph.D. Discover more books like these titles by following along with our reviews and articles tagged with books with strong female characters and girl empowerment.