Books for Young Readers to Celebrate Women’s History Month
It’s officially March, meaning that it’s time to celebrate Women’s History Month! During this month, we acknowledge the struggles and contributions of women throughout history that have shaped the experiences of women today. We also take this time to celebrate women’s empowerment and to dedicate ourselves to creating a future in which all women feel seen and respected.
We’ve picked out five of our favorite children’s books that uplift women’s stories—check them out!
Girls on the Rise by Amanda Gorman, illustrated by Loveis Wise
Author and poet Amanda Gorman celebrates the magic of girlhood. With the help of powerful illustrations by Loveis Wise, Girls on the Rise comments on how girls are powerful on their own but so much stronger when they band together. (Ages 4-8)
Fierce Aunties! by Laurel Goodluck, illustrated by Steph Littlebird
Who do you turn to when you need advice, courage, or a few words of wisdom? Fierce aunties! This picture book by Laurel Goodluck encourages readers to connect with and seek support from the “fierce” women in their lives, whether they are your parents’ sisters, your older cousins, or even family friends. (Ages 4-8)
Louisa Learns to Write by Kate Hannigan, illustrated by Sofia Moore
This nonfiction picture book tells the story of renowned Little Women author Louisa May Alcott. Follow Louisa as she grows from little girl to famous author and uses her close-knit relationship with her sisters as inspiration for her book characters. (Ages 7-10)
Betty Before X by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renée Watson
Betty Before X introduces young readers to Betty Shabazz, the future wife of Malcolm X. Set in 1945, the book follows 11-year-old Betty, who quickly becomes inspired by activists like Paul Robeson and Thurgood Marshall, and soon begins volunteering for the Housewives League in support of the American civil rights movement. This middle-grade historical fiction is inspired by Betty’s real-life experiences and written by her real-life daughter, Ilyasah Shabazz. (Ages 10-14)
Mary Prince (My Story) by E. L. Norry
Meet Mary Prince: the first Black woman whose life story was published in Britain. Born in Bermuda, Mary escaped slavery and became an outspoken abolitionist. Mary Prince (My Story) recounts Mary’s tale in a first-person narrative with accurate historical details in a format accessible to early readers. (Ages 9-12)
2025 PICKS
To Boldly Go: How Nichelle Nichols and Star Trek Helped Advance Civil Rights by Angela Dalton
A Cooperative Children’s Book Center choice for 2024, To Boldly Go tells the true story of how Nichelle Nichols used the platform she gained from her role as Lieutenant Uhura in Star Trek. As the first onscreen Black female astronaut, Nichelle made history through her portrayal of Uhura as a strong, independent woman—a revolutionary accomplishment since only white men had gone to space in the 1960s! Nichelle has since been revered as a pop culture icon. This read will inspire a new generation! (Ages 4-8)
Muslim Girls Rise: Inspirational Champions of Our Time by Saira Mir
This nonfiction picture book immerses readers in the true stories of nineteen Muslim women who used their voices to stand up for change! These twenty-first century women blazed trails in their respective communities and industries (including activism, science, government, fashion, and entertainment). Through informative biographies and color illustrations, young readers will gain role models they may not have heard of otherwise. (Ages 6+)
Josephine and Her Dishwashing Machine by Kate Hannigan
This charming STEAM picture book biography tells the story of the inventor of the dishwasher, Josephine Garis Cochrane! Josephine hates washing dishes: it leaves her plates and cups cracked and chipped! She decides to solve the problem herself using the scientific method, testing processes and prototypes until she succeeds. Young readers will not only enjoy the story but will also make use of the included nonfiction resources. (Ages 7-10)
Ahimsa by Supriya Kelkar
Inspired by her great-grandmother’s experience working with Mahatma Gandhi, Supriya Kelkar’s New Visions Award-winning debut, Ahimsa, follows ten-year-old Anjali. In this historical fiction tale set in 1942, Anjali’s mother is jailed for speaking out against the British government as her family becomes increasingly involved in Gandhi’s “ahimsa” (nonviolent resistance). Anjali must find her own voice and step out of her comfort zone as she takes over her mother’s efforts. (Ages 9-12)
You Are More Than Magic: The Black and Brown Girls’ Guide to Finding Your Voice by Minda Harts
This empowering nonfiction guide teaches girls of color how to find their voice as they enter transitional phases of their life (high school, college, career, and more). CEO and bestselling author Minda Harts talks readers through “building their squad,” “leaning into courage,” and “saying what you mean without saying it mean.” A must-have full of real-life anecdotes! (Ages 12-17)