The best new books for children and teens about incredible girls and women for Women's History Month 2024.
Every year, we at A Mighty Girl are thrilled to see the number of new books that are released introducing children and teens to inspiring women of history! As the bookshelves of women's history titles continue to grow, our kids — both girls and boys — have even more opportunities to learn about the women who have changed our world, giving them a more diverse and nuanced perspective on our past. Better yet, these books provide terrific role models for the next generation of bold, determined, and pioneering women!
For Women's History Month 2024, we've collected the best biographies that have been released in the past 12 months. These books feature women in every field — arts, science, business, politics, activism, and so much more — and capture their diverse experiences to becoming a trailblazer. Whether you're looking for books to share at home, or are filling a shelf or building a curriculum at school, these titles will help you share stories from women's history all year long.
For more empowering books about girls and women from around the world, check out the hundreds of biographies and works of historical fiction in A Mighty Girl's History & Biography Collection.
New Books for Women's History Month 2024
Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews
Song After Song: The Musical Life of Julie Andrews
As a little girl, Julie Andrews was struggling with both her parents' divorce and the many challenges brought by World War II. Her kind stepfather encouraged her to sing as a way to comfort herself (and pass the time) during the London Blitz, and she soon discovered she had an extraordinary voice! She thrilled at the applause when she first appeared on vaudeville stage; felt honored to sing in front of the Queen at age 13; and then made the leap first to big stages in London and New York, and then to the silver screen. This lyrical picture book explores the early life of the beloved singer, actor, and children's book author, and how those simple beginnings led to her becoming one of the world's favorite performers.
Taylor Swift: A Little Golden Book Biography
Taylor Swift: A Little Golden Book Biography
When Taylor Swift was young, she dreamed of performing as a country artist. Some of the kids at school made fun of her, thinking it was weird for her to like country music so much, but she knew she loved to write songs and sing them for whoever would listen. She would play at fairs, festivals, and baseball games — anything to get a chance to sing! And then, when she was 13, something amazing happened: a record company wanted to sign with her for a real album. Her first album released when she was just 16 years old, and she released another one soon after that rocketed up the charts. But what she loves most is being able to share stories through her lyrics — and sharing parts of her life with her fans. Told in the iconic Little Golden Book format, this biography is perfect for young Taylor Swift fans!
I Am Temple Grandin
I Am Temple Grandin
When Temple Grandin was a child, she was different from other children — and her parents were told that she wouldn't be able to attend school, let alone live an independent life. Instead, her mother found people who could help her, and tried to understand why some things, like eye contact, strong smells, bright lights, and loud noises were so overwhelming for Temple. As she got older, Temple discovered that she also had incredible gifts, including a remarkable visual memory and the ability to understand how animals perceived their environment. As an animal scientist and as an autism advocate, she's change the way other people see the world, too! Tthis inspiring book from the Ordinary People Change the World series is a tribute to the power of unique perspectives.
Simone Biles: A Little Golden Book Biography
Simone Biles: A Little Golden Book Biography
As a child, Simone Biles had a TON of energy — and she was always flipping and cartwheeling! Doctors diagnosed her with ADHD, but her parents knew that her energy was an asset when she channeled it to the things she wanted to do. And when she discovered gymnastics, it was a match made in heaven. She rocketed up the ranks, performing incredibly difficult tricks. But when Simone went to the Olympics in 2021, she got a case of the "twisties," losing her sense of where her body was in space as she twirled and flipped. Despite the incredible pressure to compete, she knew it was too dangerous. Courageously, she let the alternate step in and cheered her teammates on from the sidelines! Told in the iconic Little Golden Book format, this is an uplifting tribute to a pioneering athlete and an incredible role model for protecting your own well-being.
I Am Ruth Bader Ginsburg
I Am Ruth Bader Ginsburg
When Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a child, people didn't think girls should do the same thing as boys did — and she thought that was silly. Her mother urged her to pursue her dreams, and when she died, Ginsburg swore that she would make her mother proud. Ginsburg tied for first place in her law class, but struggled to find work because of both sexism and anti-Semitism. Those experiences, though, drove her to fight for changes in unjust laws... and, when she sat on the Supreme Court, to express the importance of equity in ever case. This compelling book from the Ordinary People Change the World series is sure to inspire kids to find their own way to change the world.
Jane Goodall: A Little Golden Book Biography
Jane Goodall: A Little Golden Book Biography
When animal-loving Jane Goodall read The Story of Doctor Doolittle as a child, she knew she wanted to travel to Africa just like he did in the book. When she got an invitation to study chimpanzees in the wild, she jumped at the chance! But Goodall thought about fieldwork in a different way than most scientists. Instead of hiding her presence, she decided to let the animals get used to her — to think of her as a friend. That unique technique allowed her to observe behaviors — like chimpanzees making and using tools — that changed what it meant to be human. Told in the engaging Little Golden Book format, this biography is the perfect choice for young Jane Goodall fans.
Courage in Her Cleats: The Story of Soccer Star Abby Wambach
Courage in Her Cleats: The Story of Soccer Star Abby Wambach
Even as a kid, Abby Wambach loved to play soccer and to WHOOSH the ball into the goal! But while we know her today as a star of the U.S. Women's National Team, she had to fight lots of setbacks to get there. In this powerful biography, kids will learn about the obstacles Abby had to avoid on her way, from missed goals and lost games, to injuries that put her on the sidelines, to the razor-sharp competition of the world soccer stage. Fortunately, from her days in school leagues to her World Cup appearances, Abby has been tough enough to keep going, no matter what. With colorful illustrations and an empowering story about perseverance, this is the perfect picture book to encourage young soccer fans!
Beyonce: A Little Golden Book Biography
Beyonce: A Little Golden Book Biography
As a child, Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter loved to sing and dance — but she was also surprisingly shy! Spending time on the stage, and performing in competitions, helped build her confidence. Then, in the late 1990s, she became the lead singer of a group called Destiny's Child, helping it become one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. And she wasn't done yet: Beyoncé decided to try her hand as a solo act, and quickly became a smash success. This gorgeous Little Golden Book biography, created in partnership with Ebony Jr., uses colorful illustrations and simple but engaging text to tell the inspiring story of how Beyoncé reached for her dreams.
Hedy Lamarr (Little People, Big Dreams)
Hedy Lamarr (Little People, Big Dreams)
Hedy Lamarr loved machines and science — and she loved performing as a musician and an actress. She became famous for the latter, and ended up being a glamorous Hollywood star — but she never gave up her curious, innovative spirit. She proved herself in chemistry, electronics, and engineering, and even developed technology that formed the basis of our internet-connected world.In this empowering book from the Little People, BIG DREAMS series, kids will learn the scientific side of Lamarr's story — a side that's finally being given its due.
Shakira (Little People, Big Dreams)
Shakira (Little People, Big Dreams)
Even as a child, Shakira knew she loved to write songs, sing, and dance &mdsh; and she dreamed of being a performer! She knew it would be a difficult road, but she was determined to achieve her goals. At the age of 13, she recorded her first album, but it wasn't exactly a smash success. She kept going, though, and four years later, she got her first hit song! Before long, her songs were played around the world, and people were calling her the Queen of Latin Music. And Shakira used her fame and fortune to create a charitable foundation, helping children in her native country of Colombia and elsewhere get an education. This inspiring book from the best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series is a fun introduction to the world's most popular Latin American singer.
Princess Diana (Little People, Big Dreams)
Princess Diana (Little People, Big Dreams)
Even as a child, Princess Diana was known for her sympathetic heart — so it seemed like a fairytale romance when she met Prince Charles as a primary school teacher. The couple married in front of millions of people, and Diana was thrust into worldwide fame. She used it, though, to raise awareness of charitable issues around the globe, including AIDS treatment and research, anti-personnel mine removal, and more. And she raised her two sons to understand the world beyond the palace... and to do their own part to give back. This inspiring book from the Little People, BIG DREAMS series teaches kids all about Diana's life, activism, and impact.
Vanessa Nakate (Little People, Big Dreams)
Vanessa Nakate (Little People, Big Dreams)
Vanessa Nakate grew up in Uganda, and she didn't think about how climate change affected her until she was a college student, when she realized that the floods and droughts that ravaged her home country, and others across Africa, were increasing. Even though African countries had little impact on climate change, it had a huge impact on them. Vanessa became an activist, campaigning to save ecosystems and fight for climate equity. She even got invited to an important summit in 2020... only to be cropped out of a photo of climate change activists. She raised her voice about how the global change movement disregarded Africa's needs, and she's still working for a greener — and fairer — world. This book from the best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series is an empowering introduction to an activist who raised her voice for a continent.
The Fire of Stars: The Life and Brilliance of the Woman Who Discovered What Stars Are Made Of
The Fire of Stars: The Life and Brilliance of the Woman Who Discovered What Stars Are Made Of
As a child, Cecilia Payne thrilled at the "lightning bolt of discovery" that could come when you observed the natural world — and she soon developed a love of astronomy in particular. Although people tried to discourage her from a career in science, she knew she wanted to untangle the mysteries of the universe. Her perseverance took her to the Harvard College Observatory, where she came to a stunning conclusion: stars, and therefore the universe, were primarily made of hydrogen. And although that idea was originally considered impossible, today it's hailed as one of the most important discoveries in astronomy. This gorgeous, lyrical picture book sets Payne's story alongside the birth of a star, celebrating a STEM pioneer and the explosion of discovery that sets curious minds aflame.
She's a Mensch! Jewish Women Who Rocked the World
She's a Mensch! Jewish Women Who Rocked the World
Whether they were judo champions, chess grandmasters, astronauts, or spies, these women weren't just history makers: they were menschen! This colorful and exuberant picture book includes capsule biographies of Jewish women, past and present, from around the world and in every field from science to the arts to activists. Each biography begins with a four-line poem about the woman featured, and includes an illustration of the woman at work, plus "fun facts to mensch'n" and questions to readers about how they might change the world just like the mensch they're reading about. With additional materials including a timeline and a list of 18 honorable menschen, this is a bold celebration of Jewish women's role in history.
To Boldly Go: How Nichelle Nichols and Star Trek Helped Advance Civil Rights
To Boldly Go: How Nichelle Nichols and Star Trek Helped Advance Civil Rights
When Nichelle Nichols played the role of Lieutenant Nyota Uhura on a new show called Star Trek in the 1960s, people were astonished: she was the first Black woman astronaut anyone had ever seen on screen, and one of the few Black TV characters who wasn't a servant or a caricature. Courageous, smart, and strong, she inspired a generation of kids to dream of the stars — and when the TV show was over, she wasn't done yet! She used her platform as a TV role models to recruit for NASA, inspiring a generation of more diverse astronauts and scientists. This beautiful tribute to a pop culture icon who inspired millions of people — including real-life astronaut Dr. Mae Jemison — is perfect for fans of Hidden Figures and Mae Among the Stars.
The Van Buren Sisters vs. the Pants Police
The Van Buren Sisters vs. the Pants Police
Addie and Gussie Van Buren's father raised them to love sports, be confident, and ignore silly opinions about what "proper" women shouldn't do. But when World War I breaks out, the sisters want to encourage women to be battlefield messengers... only to be told that women can't serve. To prove their point, the Van Buren sisters decided to ride their motorbikes across the country... wearing pants! People were horrified, and they even got stopped repeatedly for wearing "men's" clothing. But their journey was successful, and they proved their point: "woman can, if she will"! Plenty of humor and fascinating historical facts combine in this picture book that celebrates two pioneers who proved women can do whatever they dream of.
Beulah Has a Hunch!
Inside the Colorful Mind of Master Inventor Beulah Louise Henry
Beulah Has a Hunch!
Inside the Colorful Mind of Master Inventor Beulah Louise Henry
As a child growing up in the 1890s, Beulah Louise Henry's brain worked differently. For one, she had hyperphantasia — she could see things in extreme detail in her mind — and synesthesia — words and numbers generated visions of colors i her brain. But for another, when she saw a problem, she had to figure out how to solve it! Her unique mind helped her "hunches" turn into multiple inventions, including a new parasol design, an ice cream maker, and new factory machinery. And she had the business savvy to work as a consultant, holding her own patents and founding two manufacturing companies! This colorful picture book is a celebration of innovation, neurodiversity, and a clever woman determined to make her mark on the world.
The Girl Who Heard the Music
How One Pianist and 85,000 Bottles and Cans Brought New Hope to an Island
The Girl Who Heard the Music
How One Pianist and 85,000 Bottles and Cans Brought New Hope to an Island
Mahani Teave grew up on Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, and she heard music in everything around her. She longed to play, and took music lessons (using the island's only piano) — and it soon became clear that, to take her talent to its fullest, she would have to leave her beloved home. Mahani became a touring concert pianist, but her heart was still with Rapa Nui, particularly when she heard it was being overwhelmed with tourist and ocean trash. So she returned and built a music school out of recycled garbage, complete with solar panels and a food garden! Today, Mahani continues to build a sustainable future for Rapa Nui and to teach music. This true story is a celebration of following your dreams, both away from and back to home.
How Do You Spell Unfair? MacNolia Cox and the National Spelling Bee
How Do You Spell Unfair? MacNolia Cox and the National Spelling Bee
MacNolia Cox loved words and reading — so when she was introduced to spelling bees, she was hooked. She won the 1936 Akron, Ohio spelling bee, becoming the first African American student to do so and earning a spot at the prestigious National Spelling Bee in Washington DC, where she and a girl from New Jersey would be the first Black students invited since the competition was founded. Her city celebrated her as she left, but once she crosses into segregated Maryland, she faces discrimination head on... even from the judges of the spelling bee. Still, she stood steadfast, and even though she didn't win, she triumphed by proving that she deserved to be there. Award-winning creators Carole Boston Weatherford and Frank Morrison have created a moving portrait of perseverance in the face of prejudice and hate.
Cut! How Lotte Reiniger and a Pair of Scissors Revolutionized Animation
Cut! How Lotte Reiniger and a Pair of Scissors Revolutionized Animation
As a child, Lotte Reiniger loved puppetry — especially papercuts. During the 1920s, as films were on the rise, it occurred to her: paper silhouettes similar to papercuts could be the perfect tool to create stop-motion animation. With the encouragement of others working in film, she honed her skills and invented the multiplane camera, giving depth of field to her animations. And then, years before Walt Disney hit the scene, she and her small team created the oldest full-length animated film in existence! This intriguing story of a little-known pioneer of animation is a celebration of blending old and new and of using your creativity to drive art to new heights.
Virginia Wouldn't Slow Down!
The Unstoppable Dr. Apgar and Her Life-Saving Invention
Virginia Wouldn't Slow Down!
The Unstoppable Dr. Apgar and Her Life-Saving Invention
Most parents know about the Apgar Score, a quick way to determine which newborns might need additional support or intervention. But few people know that it was named for its creator, pioneering anesthesiologist Dr. Virginia Apgar! Apgar showed an early gift for math and science, and was always busy, busy, busy; one of her teachers once asked, "frankly, how does she do it?" When she specialized in the new field of anesthesiology, she realize while working in labor and delivery that there was no standardized way to assess the health of a baby. Her simple, easy to remember score has since been used on millions of babies, saving lives around the world! This vibrant picture book, full of fun facts about Apgar and her work, is sure to inspire would-be doctors and inventors alike.
Josephine and Her Dishwashing Machine: Josephine Cochrane's Bright Invention Makes a Splash
Josephine and Her Dishwashing Machine: Josephine Cochrane's Bright Invention Makes a Splash
Josephine Garis Cochrane was frustrated that household chores took so much of her time away from the activities she enjoyed — and she especially despised washing dishes. Mountains of crockery, all of which had to be washed by hand — and, of course, the inevitable cracks, dings, and chips when a cup or bowl fell. So she decided to take a stab at inventing a machine that could do it for her! With the help of a mechanic, she designed a hand-cranked dishwasher, and even got a patent... but investors didn't want to back a woman's invention. That is, until she exhibited at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893 — and won first prize! This introduction to a determined inventor is full of energy and determination , just like Cochrane herself.
Pitch Perfect and Persistent! The Musical Debut of Amy Cheney Beach
Pitch Perfect and Persistent! The Musical Debut of Amy Cheney Beach
Amy Beach showed perfect pitch and an excellent singing voice by the age of 2 — but despite her obvious talent, her mother did NOT want her to pursue it. Drawing attention to herself wasn't appropriate for a young lady! But with the help of her supportive Aunt Franc, Amy stood up for her love of music. She demanded to be allowed to play the piano, and insisted on lessons from a real music teacher. She wouldn't give up until she was allowed to perform on stage. And at the age of 16, Amy Beach performed at Boston's Music Hall, kicking off an astounding career as a musician and America's first successful woman composer! This gorgeously illustrated picture book biography is a tribute to a love of music and the power of persistence.
Her Eyes on the Stars: Maria Mitchell, Astronomer
Her Eyes on the Stars: Maria Mitchell, Astronomer
Maria Mitchell was disappointed to miss an annular solar eclipse when she was 12 years old. Determined not to miss anything else, she took to sweeping the skies with a telescope... and discovered a comet! She won an award from the King of Denmark for her discovery and became known as "the lady astronomer." That fame allowed her to become a professional astronomer — unheard of for women of her day — as well as the first woman astronomy professor in the world. And as she trained a new generation of women to study the stars, she saw something far more exciting than the ring of the solar eclipse she missed: "another powerful ring — a ring of women." Best-selling author Laurie Wallmark introduces young readers to a trailblazer for women in science who never gave up reaching for the stars.
A Curious Mind and a Very Big Heart
The Story of Designer and Innovator Sara Little Turnbull
A Curious Mind and a Very Big Heart
The Story of Designer and Innovator Sara Little Turnbull
Sara Little Turnbull liked to observe the world around her for tiny details, like the skin of an onion or the shape of an egg — and she liked to make things that were both useful and beautiful. Together, those two attributes led her to a unique career as a pioneering international designer! Sara's projects included a pot lid inspired by the way a leopard gripped its prey, a "lighter-than-air" spacesuit, and even the concept of an informal family room space in the home. She even came up with an alternative to the unwieldy medical masks used in the 1940s... the design that became the foundation of today's N95 masks! This intriguing picture book biography will encourage kids to use their own curious minds and big hearts, all while remembering Sara's credo that "failure is not defeat."
A Take-Charge Girl Blazes a Trail to Congress: The Story of Jeannette Rankin
A Take-Charge Girl Blazes a Trail to Congress: The Story of Jeannette Rankin
Jeannette Rankin was a born leader, even as a child tending to her family's horses (or her little brothers and sisters.) And as an adult in San Francisco, when she saw poor children struggling to survive, she was determined to help! But in the early 1900s, women like Jeannette weren't even allowed to vote. So Jeannette started campaigning for women's suffrage, both in her home state of Montana and across the country. And when Montana granted women's right to vote, Jeannette ran for office, becoming America's first Congresswoman. This vivacious picture book captures the determination and drive of his pioneer of American politics, perfect for fans of I Dissent and Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice.
Determined Dreamer: The Story of Marie Curie
Determined Dreamer: The Story of Marie Curie
When Marie Curie was a little girl named Marie Sklodowska, she dreamed of learning to be a scientist. For many, that dream would have seemed out of reach: in the late 1800s, women weren't expected to go to university. Although she faced discrimination and financial hardship, Curie earned herself a place at a university in Paris, and with hard work, her dream came true! Not only did she become the first woman in France to earn the highest degree in physics, but she would go on to become the first woman to win the Nobel Prize. Written by an acclaimed author-illustrator pair, this compelling picture book highlights the power of a smart, determined woman with a dream.
Bird Girl: Gene Stratton-Porter Shares Her Love of Nature with the World
Bird Girl: Gene Stratton-Porter Shares Her Love of Nature with the World
Gene Stratton-Porter grew up on a farm in 1870s Indiana, and she loved exploring both the farmyard and the natural world around her. She had a particular affection for birds, even nursing an injured hawk back to health. As an adult, she started writing stories about her wildlife encounters — but the editor wanted to publish them next to pictures of taxidermied birds! Ridiculous, she thought, so she taught herself photography and started taking picture of birds in the wild — getting so close that you could see every feather. Her incredible photographs capturing animals in their natural habitat would change American wildlife writing! This stunning picture book biography captures the story of a little-known naturalist whose love for animals shone through in everything she did.
Elinor McGrath, Pet Doctor: The Story of America’s First Female Veterinarian
Elinor McGrath, Pet Doctor: The Story of America’s First Female Veterinarian
Elinor McGrath wanted to be a veterinarian — but in 1907, people did not think a woman could do the job. Was she strong enough to work with horses, cows, and other farm animals? Was she smart enough to prove to the 137 male students at her veterinary school that she could learn everything she needed to know? Elinor knew she was smart and strong enough... and she had some big ideas, too. She realized that people needed vets willing to treat companion animals like cats, dogs, and even monkeys, paving the way for the vet practices of today. With expressive illustrations and back matter that tells the story of more pioneering women in veterinary science, this is a gorgeous tribute to a pioneering animal-lover.
Remembering Rosalind Franklin
Rosalind Franklin & the Discovery of the Double Helix Structure of DNA
Remembering Rosalind Franklin
Rosalind Franklin & the Discovery of the Double Helix Structure of DNA
When Rosalind Franklin was young, very few women became scientists — but she had remarkable talent as a chemist. She became an expert in crystallography: using X-rays to capture images of molecular structures. One of her images, now known as Photo 51, showed the double helix structure of DNA — but it was shown to two male colleagues without her knowledge or permission. They went on to win the Nobel Prize, and today, people still point to Franklin's story to show the damage prejudice does in science. Tanya Lee Stone, the bestselling author of Who Says Women Can’t Be Doctors?, uses her picture book biography to introduce young readers to Franklin's bittersweet story and celebrate her groundbreaking life.
Cactus Queen: Minerva Hoyt Establishes Joshua Tree National Park
Cactus Queen: Minerva Hoyt Establishes Joshua Tree National Park
When Minerva Hoyt moved to Southern California in 1897, she fell in love with the Mojave Desert; the cacti, the coyotes, and especially the spiky Joshua trees. But by the 1920s, she realized that most people didn't see the beauty of the desert — and if they didn't protect it soon, it would be destroyed by development and depredation. To win people to her cause, she recruited her gardening club, taxidermists, and other friends to create stunning displays about the desert. Then, she started meeting with politicians, scientists, teachers, and more with one goal in mind: create a national park to keep the desert safe for good. This colorful picture book is a celebration of how one woman's determination led to the creation of Joshua Tree National Park.
The Green Piano: How Little Me Found Music
The Green Piano: How Little Me Found Music
Roberta Flack grew up in a Blue Ridge mountain town, in a family full of love and music — and it was obvious early on that she had a gift for it. At the age of four she was playing hymns on the church piano! What she really needed was a piano to play at home — but her family didn't have the money for one. Then her daddy spotted an upright piano in a junkyard, "old, / ratty, beat-up, / weather-worn, / faded, / stained, / stinky"... but fixable. He cleaned it and tuned it and painted it the same green as fresh grown grass, and all the while Roberta dreamed of being able to play. And as she writes, "Grown-up me lived this dream! Year after year after year!" This lyrical, autobiographical picture book celebrates a passion for music and the power of a loving family to support your dreams.
Jackie Ormes Draws the Future: The Remarkable Life of a Pioneering Cartoonist
Jackie Ormes Draws the Future: The Remarkable Life of a Pioneering Cartoonist
Zelda Jackson, known as Jackie to her friends, had a tremendous artistic talent — and a big imagination to go with it. As a child in the early part of the 20th century, she drew adventures: running through fields, swimming through oceans, anywhere she could dream of. As a high school student, she drew doodles for her high school year book, capturing day to day life. And as an adult, she became a journalist who tackled tough issues — including racism, pollution, and other social justice causes — and became one of the first Black women to have a syndicated newspaper cartoon! Written and illustrated by Liz Montague, one of the first Black cartoonists at the New Yorker, this is an inspiring tribute to a woman used her pen for both words and pictures to change the world.
Love Is in the Air: The Story of Aviation Pioneer Nancy Harkness Love
Love Is in the Air: The Story of Aviation Pioneer Nancy Harkness Love
When she was 16 years old, Nancy Harkness took a ride with a barnstormer pilot... and fell in love with flight. She knew she wanted to fly again, and as the pilot, not a passenger, but women weren't encouraged to pursue careers in aviation. She earned her pilot's license while she was in college, and when she moved to Boston looking for work, a man named Bob Love hired her to demonstrate planes to his customers. Before long, Nancy and Bob were married, and Nancy Harkness Love had reached her dream! Love would go on to become the first female pilot to serve in the Army Air Forces and founder of the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS) during World War II. This colorful picture book is a celebration of a pioneer for women in aviation who helped a generation of women take to the skies.
Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior
Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior
The Anishinaabe believein "looking seven generations into the future" when they make decisions — especially when it comes to protecting nibi, the Anishinaabe word for water. In this stunning picture book, water itself speaks about two courageous activists. First, there was Josephine Mandamin — known as Grandma Josephine — who trekked the Great Lakes with a copper water pail. Then, there was her great-niece, Autumn Peltier, who raised her voice in new ways, leading protests, speaking up on social media, and bringing petitions to the Canadian Parliament. With a forward from Peltier herself, and end notes that include more details about both women and tips for how readers can work to protect water, this is a celebration of a precious resource and of the women who fight to keep it safe.
Justice Ketanji: The Story of US Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson
Justice Ketanji: The Story of US Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson
As a girl growing up in Florida, Ketanji Brown Jackson's father told her: "You can do anything. You can be anything." With her parents at her back, she knew that was true! So when she ran into people who doubted her abilities, she never let them stop her, whether she was running for high school class president or applying to Harvard. As an adult, she stood confidently in front of juries, became the first Black woman to become a U.S. District Judge, and then finally, endured grilling by the Senate on her way to being confirmed America's first Black woman Supreme Court Justice! Empowering prose and vibrant illustrations combine in an inspiring portrait of woman whose story is a tribute both to personal determination and the power of a supportive community.
The Brilliant Calculator: How Mathematician Edith Clarke Helped Electrify America
The Brilliant Calculator: How Mathematician Edith Clarke Helped Electrify America
Edith Clarke loved math from an early age — and in the days before calculators, she was good at it! As an adult, she wanted to be an engineer, but nobody in the early 1900s wanted to hire a woman engineer. She got a job for a company building power lines, manually calculating their equations... but at night, she studied electrical current load in wires, and tried to figure out how to make the process faster. Her invention of the Clarke Calculator — a graphing calculator on paper that was ten times faster than doing it by hand — not only help her achieve her dream and become the first woman electrical engineer in America, but also helped people across the country connect telephones and electric lights! This compelling picture book is a little-known story of an innovative woman who lit up the nation.
Loud and Proud: The Life of Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm
Loud and Proud: The Life of Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm
As a child in Brooklyn, Shirley Chisholm's father told her: "God gave you a brain, use it." And she did — not only to excel in school, but also to realize that political representation was the key to policies that supported minorities and women. She ran for Congress, and even though people told her "you don't belong here!" during her campaign, she persevered... and won! She became the first African American woman in Congress, served seven terms, and fought for key legislation like the Equal Rights Amendment. And while her Unbought and Unbossed presidential campaign didn't take her to the white house, she continues to inspire politicians both in America and around the world. Award-winning author Lesa Cline-Ransome pays tribute to Chisholm's life and legacy in this gorgeous picture book about a pioneering politician.
Milloo's Mind: The Story of Maryam Faruqi, Trailblazer for Women's Education
Milloo's Mind: The Story of Maryam Faruqi, Trailblazer for Women's Education
As a girl in 1930s India, Milloo is shy — but she loves going to school, even though people think it's not necessary for girls. Reading makes her thoughts dance and fills her heart with joy. When the teacher doesn't show up one day, she even discovers that she has the courage to lead the class! In the fifth grade, her parents say she's learned enough, but she finishes high school and college, too. When her husband insists she can't work, she comes up with a new idea: she opens a school inside her home. And when she moves to Pakistan, that inspiration becomes Happy Home Schools, which educated thousands of girls across Pakistan! This tribute to a determined teacher and activist — told by Maryam's granddaughter — is a celebration of the power of learning and those who refuse to let girls go without education.
The First Woman Cherokee Chief: Wilma Pearl Mankiller
The First Woman Cherokee Chief: Wilma Pearl Mankiller
Before Europeans came to North America, Cherokee leadership was made up of both men and women — but English colonists insisted that men should be the only ones allowed to lead, and eventually, generations of Cherokee came to believe that too. Then Wilma Pearl Mankiller stepped in! She believed that the best person should lead the tribe, and that they needed strong leadership to tackle the injustices she saw. Drawing on the concept of gaduji — everyone helping each other — she brought her people together, and in 1985, she became the first woman Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. This Level 3 biography from the Step Into Reading series, which features both spot illustrations and photographs, is a compelling introduction to a trailblazing leader.
Shining Star: Vera Rubin Discovers Dark Matter
Shining Star: Vera Rubin Discovers Dark Matter
Even as a girl, Vera Rubin was captivated by the night sky — she wanted to know everything about stars, galaxies, and more! She became an astronomer despite having to fight sexism at every step along the way, often having to fight for access to simple tools like the massive telescopes that allowed scientists to peek far into the universe. And then, she noticed something extraordinary: the visible objects in the universe didn't seem to explain all of the forces she could observe. Her explanation — the concept of dark matter — is one of the most important astronomical discoveries of the 20th century! This empowering picture book by author Suzanne Slade is a tribute to the power of a curious mind.
The Fabulous Fannie Farmer: Kitchen Scientist and America’s Cook
The Fabulous Fannie Farmer: Kitchen Scientist and America’s Cook
Fannie Farmer grew up in the late 1800s, and she loved to cook — but in her opinion, the recipes of the day were pretty silly. How much is "a goodly amount of salt" or "a suspicion of nutmeg"? No wonder some cooks struggled while other cooks got lucky (or got good advice from their teachers.) Polio prevented Fannie from going to college, so she became a teacher at the Boston Cooking School, where she treated cooking like a science, using precide measurements and specific instructions — and funny enough, her students were successful! Her cookbook became an American classic, and proved that you didn't need "feminine instincts" to be a good cook. This cheerful picture book tells Fannie's story and even includes two of her classic recipes to try.
One of a Kind: The Life of Sydney Taylor
One of a Kind: The Life of Sydney Taylor
Sarah Brenner was one of five sisters who all dressed alike, but she always stood out! She loved taking free dance classes and going to the library, but she also questioned injustice — like women not being allowed to vote, or the anti-Semitism that had driven her family out of Europe to New York's Lower East Side. As an adult, she changed her name to Sydney and became an actor and a dancer... and when her daughter asked why there weren't books about Jewish children like her, she wrote one! All-of-a-Kind Family was a one-of-a-kind children's book that has stood the test of time. This charming picture book biography celebrates how Taylor showed the importance of seeing families just like your own.
Pedal, Balance, Steer
Annie Londonderry, the First Woman to Cycle Around the World
Pedal, Balance, Steer
Annie Londonderry, the First Woman to Cycle Around the World
In the 1890s, two men offered $10,000 to the first woman who could travel around the globe by bike... and Annie Londonderry was determined to win the prize. Londonderry's family desperately needed the money, so she learned to ride a bike and the 15-month clock on her attempt started. Women's bikes were too heavy, and her corset and petticoats too bulky; she traded the first for a faster men's bike, and the second for practical bloomers. She made money by lecturing along the way — despite the dangers and the disapproving stares — and made it to her goal... 14 days before her deadline! This lively picture book is a celebration of a courageous woman who refused to give up on a history-making goal.
Tiny Jumper: How Tiny Broadwick Created the Parachute Rip Cord
Tiny Jumper: How Tiny Broadwick Created the Parachute Rip Cord
Tiny Broadwick earned her name when she was born weighing only three pounds — but with a poor family, she still had to go to work as a child. Every job was a battle as she stretched and strained, and shew as determined to find a way to build her own future. When she saw a man parachute down from a hot air balloon at the 1907 North Carolina State Fair, she knew that was her ticket. She jumped from a balloon, and became the first woman ever to parachute from an airplane. Then, an accident nearly became a tragedy; Tiny only saved her own life by cutting herself free. What she needed, she realized, was a way to release her parachute herself: a rip cord! This lively biography celebrates an inventor who changed pilot safety and a pioneer in aviation history.
She Persisted: Florence Nightingale
She Persisted: Florence Nightingale
Florence Nightingale's parents were shocked when she told them she wanted to become a nurse — they didn't think that was an appropriate job for a woman, and especially not for a wealthy one! But she refused to be guided into an "appropriate" marriage, and instead pursued her dream. She even traveled abroad during the Crimean War, where she became famous as "The Lady with the Lamp" and saved countless lives, in part by proving that improved cleanliness and diet in hospitals benefited patients. Today, she's considered the founder of modern nursing. With short chapters, spot illustrations, and suggestions for young readers interested in their own turn changing the world, this chapter book from the best-selling She Persisted series is perfect for the next generation of medical heroes!
What Music!
The Fifty-year Friendship between Beethoven and Nannette Streicher, Who Built His Pianos
What Music!
The Fifty-year Friendship between Beethoven and Nannette Streicher, Who Built His Pianos
Nannette Stein was the well-educated, musically gifted daughter of a German piano builder, and she loved helping bring music to life. Then, in 1787, when she was 18, Nannette met 17-year-old Ludwig Beethoven — and they became the closest of friends. After her father died, Nannette took over her father's business (with the help of her younger brother, since a woman wasn't allowed to own a company on her own.) She moved to Vienna after she married, and soon, many fine pianos were labeled "Nannette Stein Streicher in Vienna" — and the now-famous Ludwig was declaring he preferred her pianos above all others. This lyrical picture book, with gorgeous gouache illustrations, is a celebration of musical history and herstory.
She Persisted: Bethany Hamilton
She Persisted: Bethany Hamilton
Bethany Hamilton was born to surf — she started surfing when she was only 3 years old! By the time she was 13, she was an up-and-coming young surfer with multiple children's competition wins under her belt, and her sights set on the professional circuit. Then one morning, tragedy struck: a shark attacked her, biting off her arm. Bethany recovered, but would she be able to surf again without both arms for balance. Of course she would, and her story would inspire people around the world! experience to provide inspiration and comfort to surfers and non-surfers alike.
In this chapter book from the best-selling She Persisted series, award-winning author Maryann Cocca-Leffler introduces young readers to the story of how Hamilton's love of surfing helped her persevere through her recovery and show the world that they should never make assumptions about what someone can do.
Moving the Millers' Minnie Moore Mine Mansion: A True Story
Moving the Millers' Minnie Moore Mine Mansion: A True Story
It was the 1870s when Englishman Henry Miller bought the Minnie Moore Mine in Idaho — and soon after, he built a mansion for his beloved wife! Henry, Annie, and their son loved the Millers' Minnie Moore Mine Mansion. But when Henry died, a crooked banker tricked Annie, leaving her with only the house. Determined not to lose her home, Annie and her son started raising pigs in the yard (with expectedly messy results.) The town had ordinances against the pigs, though, and soon people were rubbing their hands with glee and the idea that Annie would be forced to sell. Instead, Annie got clever: she hired a crew to roll the whole mansion away on logs... while she and her son were still living inside! This laugh-out-loud true story, told with flair by Dave Eggers and whimsically illustrated by Júlia Sardà, is a tribute to an ingenious woman who refused to give up.
She Persisted: Kalpana Chawla
She Persisted: Kalpana Chawla
Growing up in India, Kalpana Chawla dreamed of being an aeronautical engineer — but people told her to give that up. They knew there weren't many women in the field, and they didn't believe that she could succeed. She refused to give up her dream, though. First, she completed her degree; then, she moved to the US and pursued graduate level studies. And when she applied for an astronaut class with NASA, she was offered a position! She became the first Indian-born woman to go to space... and then tragedy struck when her shuttle, the Columbia, was destroyed during its landing, killing all of the astronauts aboard. Still, she continues to inspire girls in India and around the world. In this chapter book biography from the best-selling She Persisted series, future astronauts and scientists will learn all about this courageous woman.
Never Give Up: Dr. Kati Karikó and the Race for the Future of Vaccines
Never Give Up: Dr. Kati Karikó and the Race for the Future of Vaccines
Kati Karikó grew up in a small Hungarian town — asking tons of questions. She was determined to become a scientist, even choosing the Science Olympics over going on vacation! As an adult, her questioning nature led her to ask: could messenger RNA, also known as mRNA, be used to create new vaccines. People laughed at the idea, and she was rejected for grants so often that she was demoted at the university where she worked. She persisted, though, and a new idea — plus a position at a company named BioNTech — let her pursue creating mRNA vaccines. And when a new disease called COVID-19 struck, it was mRNA vaccines that allowed Pfizer/BioNTech to produce a new vaccine quickly enough to help. This timely and inspiring story is a reminder of the power of curiosity and persistence.
She Persisted: Deb Haaland
She Persisted: Deb Haaland
Deb Haaland grew up the child of two military parents, so she moved around a lot — but she also developed an appreciation for public service. As a member of the Pueblo Laguna nation, she saw how important it was for Native Americans to have representation in politics, eventually running in New Mexico's 1st District and becoming one of the first two Native American women to be elected to Congress. And in 2021, she became the first Native American person in history to become a cabinet secretary — and was sworn in as the secretary of the interior while wearing a traditional bead skirt. In this chapter book inspired by the best-selling She Persisted series, kids will get a compelling introduction to an American trailblazer.
Sisters in Science: Marie Curie, Bronia Dluska, and the Atomic Power of Sisterhood
Sisters in Science: Marie Curie, Bronia Dluska, and the Atomic Power of Sisterhood
Marie Curie is one of the most famous scientists in the world — but few people know that her success was in large part due to a pact she made with her sister Bronia! As students at the secret "Flying University" the sisters agreed that Marie would support Bronia's medical education at the Sorbonne in France, and then Bronia would support Marie in her own schooling. When Bronia graduated, Marie almost gave up on her dream, but Bronia convinced her to keep going — and the rest is history. This compelling dual biography of two sisters who both blazed trails in STEM is a testament to the power of family support.
She Persisted: Dorothy Height
She Persisted: Dorothy Height
As a Black girl growing up in the 1920s and 1930s, Dorothy Height knew how much could be denied to her because of her race: she wasn't allowed to go to the local swimming pool and was denied entry to Barnard College, despite having her admittance letter in hand, because the dean said they'd reached their quota of Black students for the year. So she was determined to push for change! Height would go on to be a seminal leader in the Civil Rights Movement — the only woman at its highest level of leadership — and was finally recognized for her contributions with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1994. In this chapter book biography from the best-selling She Persisted series, kids can learn all about Height's amazing contributions and her determination to change the world for the better.
Love Is Loud: How Diane Nash Led the Civil Rights Movement
Love Is Loud: How Diane Nash Led the Civil Rights Movement
Growing up in Chicago in the 1940s, Diane Nash didn't know how how segregation could affect everyday life. It wasn't until she visited the Tennessee State Fair in 1959 as a university student that she saw how much of an impact it had in the South. So Diane connected with other university students — including student preacher John Lewis — and took charge of the Nashville Movement. She lead them with powerful words and nonviolent actions of protest, once leading thousands of marchers to the Nashville courthouse to convince the mayor to integrate lunch counters. She joined the Freedom Rides to integrate interstate buses. And she gained support from luminaries like Martin Luther King Jr. and President John F. Kennedy. This illuminating picture book introduces young readers to one of the strongest voices of the Civil Rights Movement in a powerful tribute to this courageous leader.
She Persisted: Simone Biles
She Persisted: Simone Biles
Simone Biles had a difficult start in life: she spent time in foster care before being adopted by her grandparents. She also wrestled with seemingly unending energy and a diagnosis of ADHD. Then, she discovered the sport of gymnastics... and she was hooked! She proved to have incredible talent, rocketing her way up the competitive ladder and quickly reaching professional levels. Today, she's the most decorated US gymnast of all time — and she's also a role model for setting boundaries to protect your mental health. This illustrated biography from the She Persisted chapter book series is an empowering introduction to a trailblazing American athlete.
Sew Sister
The Untold Story of Jean Wright and NASA's Seamstresses
Sew Sister
The Untold Story of Jean Wright and NASA's Seamstresses
As a child, Jean Wright loved to sew, but she also dreamed about space and the stars. She tried sending NASA designs for crew patches, but each of them was rejected, and for a while she believed space could never be part of her career. But then, when she moves to Florida, she learns that the giant space shuttles are not protected by white painted metal or glass, but by fabric: specialized, 2-inch thick layered quilts that keep the astronauts safe from heat and radiation. Before long, Jean was working for NASA as one of eighteen "Sew Sisters" whose handiwork was critical to space exploration. This compelling picture book celebrates a little-recognized element of STEM: the important of skilled trades to turn designs into reality.
She Persisted: Ella Fitzgerald
She Persisted: Ella Fitzgerald
Ella Fitzgerald was just a teenager when she lost her mother, and with the Great Depression in full swing, she struggled to find her way in the world. But she loved to sing, and when she got the chance to take the stage at Amateur Night at the Apollo, she wowed the crowed! Although she had to fight prejudice along the way, she would become a world-renowned signer who's still known as the First Lady of Song. In this illustrated chapter book inspired by the best-selling She Persisted series, readers will learn all about Fitzgerald's pioneering life — and get suggestions for how they can make a difference just like her.
Ellen Takes Flight: The Life of Astronaut Ellen Ochoa
Ellen Takes Flight: The Life of Astronaut Ellen Ochoa
Ellen Ochoa's mother loved to learn, so it was no surprise when Ellen did too! As a child, she was amazed to see Neil Armstrong set foot on the moon — but women weren't allowed to be astronauts then. With her mother's encouragement, she excelled at college and became an engineer, with three patents to her name by the age of 30. And then, NASA announced it would accept women into the astronaut program... and Ellen was quick to sign up. She would become the first Latina to reach outer space, and later became the first Latina director of the Johnson Space Center! This empowering biography by award-winning author Doreen Rappaport is a celebration of determination, perseverance, and dreaming big.
She Persisted: Pura Belpré
She Persisted: Pura Belpré
As a child in Puerto Rico, Pura Belpré loved hearing — and telling — stories. When she moved to New York, and was offered a job at the New York Public Library, she thought it was the perfect opportunity to share those stories with even more people... especially children, and particularly children who were multilingual! She set up Spanish and bilingual storytelling times which not only helped Spanish-speaking kids find community, but also encouraged all kids to develop an interest in learning other languages. And her books and stories started being shared not just in New York, but all across the country! In this illustrated chapter book from the best-selling She Persisted series, authors Meg Medina and Marilisa Jiménez García show young readers how Belpré's story have made a different for generations of people.
Skybound: Starring Mary Myers as Carlotta, Daredevil Aeronaut and Scientist
Skybound: Starring Mary Myers as Carlotta, Daredevil Aeronaut and Scientist
Mary Myers dreamed of flying, but in the 1850s, that meant riding a hot air balloon, and a proper young lady would never do something so bold and dangerous. Or would she? Mary's husband Carl was a hot air balloon enthusiast too, and he encouraged her dreams. Together, they experimented with balloon designs, learning chemistry, engineering, and meteorology along the way. To test their balloons, they needed someone brave enough to do balloon tricks, steady enough to keep their head, and scientifically knowledgeable enough to record flight data. Using the stage name "Carlotta," Mary proved she was just the person for the job! Her scientific work helped the world better understand flight, weather, and more. This colorful picture book tells the story of a woman whose dreams of flight helped change the scientific world forever.
Traveling Shoes: The Story of Willye White, US Olympian and Long Jump Champion
Traveling Shoes: The Story of Willye White, US Olympian and Long Jump Champion
After her parents abandoned her, Willye B. White spent her childhood picking cotton with her grandparents in Money, Mississippi — but she had big dreams for her future. Her cousin noticed that Willye was the fastest runner of all the kids around, and she realized that was her ticket out. She ran for the Tennessee State Tigerbelles and made the US Olympic team, despite facing racism along the way. And at both the 1956 and 1964 Olympic Games, she competed and she won! This little-known story of a pioneering Black sprinter and long jumper highlights how Willye's muscle and grit helped move the Civil Rights Movement forward.
She Can STEM
50 Trailblazing Women in Science from Ancient History to Today (The Kitchen Pantry Scientist)
She Can STEM
50 Trailblazing Women in Science from Ancient History to Today (The Kitchen Pantry Scientist)
Both past and present, there have been inspiring women in STEM — Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math — who have made exciting discoveries and changed the world! In this exciting book from The Kitchen Pantry Scientist series, kids get to meet 50 women past and present, then get a glimpse into the principles of science with a hands-on experiment inspired by each. From physicist Dr. Nadya Mason to ecologist Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer, from chemist Dr. Raychelle Burks to microbiologist Dr. Esther Lederberg, and many more, the women in this book are sure to pique the curiosity of a new generation of STEM heroes!
Elizebeth Friedman: Expert Codebreaker of World War II
Elizebeth Friedman: Expert Codebreaker of World War II
What do gangsters, Nazi spies, and Shakespeare have in common? They were all cases that Elizebeth Friedman, America's first female cryptologist, managed to crack! Friedman had a gift for language from an early age, and as a young woman, that led to an unexpected opportunity: a wealthy businessman hired her to look for secret messages in Shakespeare's plays. Before long, she was one of America's top codebreakers, cracking code systems, deciphering hundreds of messages, and even testifying coolly in court to put mobster Al Capone's lieutenants behind bars. Then, when World War II broke out, she went head to head with a Nazi spy ring in South America — and quickly dismantled the entire network. This full color graphic novel from the Women Warriors of World War II series tells the thrilling story of how Friedman became famous as "Lady Manhunter."
Who Was Betty White?
Who Was Betty White?
When you hear the name Betty White, you might think of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Golden Girls, or Toy Story 4. But many people don't know how much of a trailblazer she really was, including being one of the first woman to write, produce, and star in her own show! From 1939 to 2021, Betty White was a prolific and beloved performer, and off-screen, she was a devoted activist who fought for the humane treatment of animals and for racial and LGBTQIA+ rights. In this exuberant illustrated biography from the Who Was...? series and its Who HQ Now format, kids will learn all about White's remarkable seven decade career, and how her influence lingers on in TV and movies.
Virginia Hall: Clever Spy of World War II
Virginia Hall: Clever Spy of World War II
Virginia Hall was born on a small farm in Maryland, but she dreamed of seeing the world — and the foreign service seemed the perfect way to do that. She was smart and determined, and it didn't take her long to get a position at the US embassy in Warsaw, Poland, just as tensions about Hitler and the Nazi party in Germany were starting to rise. After an accident resulting in Hall losing her leg and being fitted with a wooden prosthetic she named Cuthbert, she was told she'd never serve in the field, but she wasn't going to give up! She would become a spy for the Allies, nicknamed the "Limping Lady" by the Gestapo, and the intelligence she gathered was critical. This exciting graphic novel from the Women Warriors of World War II series is a thrilling introduction to Hall, Cuthbert, and all their daring exploits.
Coretta's Journey: The Life and Times of Coretta Scott King
Coretta's Journey: The Life and Times of Coretta Scott King
When Coretta Scott King was photographed in a black veil, mourning her husband Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, many people thought of her as only a wife — but she was much more than that, both to Martin and to the Civil Rights Movement. She spoke up against injustice even as a young woman, but in a movement that prioritized men's voices, she wasn't taken seriously by many. Martin told her, "Corrie, you are a brave soldier. I don't know what I would do without you." And when he died, she had the courage to step forward, holding the movement together and preserving Martin's legacy for the future. This lyrical story from the award-winning team behind Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop is a powerful introduction to this instrumental figure.
Who Was Her Own Work of Art? Frida Kahlo
An Official Who HQ Graphic Novel
Who Was Her Own Work of Art? Frida Kahlo
An Official Who HQ Graphic Novel
Born in Mexico, Frida Kahlo struggled with both illness and injury: a combination of a childhood bout of polio and disability caused by a bus accident left her in chronic pain. She found comfort and self-expression through art, creating vibrant paintings inspired by the landscape she saw around her and her perceptions of herself. Although she was dismissed as just the wife of another painter at first, her star rose, and eventually she was having solo exhibitions of her own in New York — and the art world would never be the same. This graphic novel from the Who Was...? biography series tells Frida's inspiring story through a compelling narrative and gorgeous color artwork.
Daring Women of D-Day: Bold Spies of World War II
Daring Women of D-Day: Bold Spies of World War II
In the midst of World War II, Europe was at a tipping point: Germany and its allies occupied much of the continent, including part of France, while England continued to lead the offensive against the Nazis. Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his military officers had a plan for a major attack, but to pull it off, they needed to prepare the Resistance in France to assist them (and maybe sabotage a few of the German operations while they were at it.) He called on a team that the Nazis wouldn't suspect: women. 39 women, including Andrée Borrel and Lise de Baissac, took on the daring and dangerous task of helping prepare for the 1944 D-Day invasion that turned the tide of the war. This full-color graphic novel from the Women Warriors of World War II series teaches kids the little-known history of the women who made D-Day a success.
Who Is Simone Biles?
Who Is Simone Biles?
At the Tokyo Olympic Games, the world's eyes were on Simone Biles: after a record-shattering career that included multiple Olympic and World Championships medals, she was going to lead America to victory. But then she made an announcement: she was suffering from the "twisties" — a scary loss of body awareness while in midair — that made it too dangerous for her to compete. Rather than risk injuring herself, she stepped back... and became a role model for self-care and protecting your own mental health. In this book from the best-selling Who Was...? illustrated biography series — told in the engaging Who HQ format that focuses on current events — kids will learn all about Simone's record-breaking gymnastics career and courageous decision to put her well-being first.
Nothing Could Stop Her: The Courageous Life of Ruth Gruber
Nothing Could Stop Her: The Courageous Life of Ruth Gruber
As the child of a Jewish American family, Ruth Gruber was alarmed during her university years in Germany to witness the rise in anti-Semitism. When she returned to America, she was determined to fight the Nazis — and other forms of injustice — with the written word. As a devoted reporter for the Herald Tribune, she defied people who thought women should stay in the home to travel to Nazi Germany, Poland, Siberia, Alaska, and more. But she also took action, escorting 954 mostly Jewish refugees to a camp in America in 1944 and fighting for years for rights for other refugees. This meticulously researched, thrillingly told illustrated chapter book is a celebration of Gruber's seven decade long career and a reminder that every person has the power to fight for justice.
Bravey (Young Readers)
Chasing Dreams, Befriending Pain, and Other Big Ideas
Bravey (Young Readers)
Chasing Dreams, Befriending Pain, and Other Big Ideas
Alexi Pappas is an Olympic runner, an actress, a filmmaker, and much more — a "bravey," someone who chases scary-feeling goals. But even in 2016, when she both made her Olympic debut and wrote, directed, and starred in her first film, she struggled with mental health. How could she be feeling anxious and depressed when everything seemed to be going right? In this profound and accessible memoir — adapted from her adult memoir — Alexi explores the key moments that left an impact on her life, from her mother's death by suicide when she was four years old, to feeling out of place at school, to discovering her love for sports and film. As she explores her own path, she encourages young readers to discover their own confidence, self-reliance, and strength... and to realize that each of them has the power to be a bravey too.
Susie King Taylor: Nurse, Teacher & Freedom Fighter
Susie King Taylor: Nurse, Teacher & Freedom Fighter
Susie King Taylor was born enslaved in Georgia, where it was illegal to teach a slave to read and write. Fortunately, her grandmother helped her learn at a secret school! She knew she wanted to use her hard-won education to help others. When the Civil War broke out, she joined the 1st South Caroline Volunteer Infantry Regiment to serve as a nurse, becoming one of America's first Black nurses. And after the war, she helped establish an educational system for formerly enslaved people — and wrote her memoirs, providing a little-heard perspective on the Civil War. The acclaimed author of Never Caught and She Came to Slay tells a powerful story of a woman who was determined to learn... and how she became an important but little-known figure of American history.
A Mighty Long Way (Young Readers)
My Journey to Justice at Little Rock Central High School
A Mighty Long Way (Young Readers)
My Journey to Justice at Little Rock Central High School
In 1957, a courageous group of teens — known as the Little Rock Nine — would brave angry mobs and threats of violence to integrate Little Rock Central High School in the wake of the US Supreme Court's decision on Brown v. Board of Education. At 14, Carlotta Walls was the youngest of the Little Rock Nine, but she was determined to keep her head held high. Despite the many challenges that lay before her, she persevered, and eventually became the first Black woman to receive her diploma on the Central High Stage. In this young readers' adaptation of A Mighty Long Way, tweens and teens can learn Carlotta's courageous story through her own words.
Muzoon: A Syrian Refugee Speaks Out
Muzoon: A Syrian Refugee Speaks Out
Muzoon grew up in Syria, enjoying activities much like any child — soccer with friends, family gatherings — but when she was 14, her family had to flee the growing violence. She was told to pack only the essentials; she took her school books, because she knew that education was the key to her future. Once settled in a refugee camp in Jordan, she started going from tent to tent, encouraging other kids to keep going to school. Since then, she has been known as the "Malala of Syria" and became the first refugee to hold the position of UNICEF goodwill ambassador. In her own voice, Muzoon reminds young readers that "'a refugee is not a type of person... [they are] someone in a kind of situation that could happen to anyone."
One Last Shot: The Story of Wartime Photographer Gerda Taro
One Last Shot: The Story of Wartime Photographer Gerda Taro
Both Polish and Jewish, Gerta Pohorylle struggles to fit in with German classmates, but she develops the confidence to stand up for what she believes in — something that promptly gets her into trouble when she distributes anti-Nazi propaganda. To keep her safe, her family sends her to Paris, where she meets Hungarian photographer André Friedman and develops a passion for photojournalism. Rebranding herself as Gerda Taro, she makes a name for herself with photographs of military conflicts. But when Gerda goes to Spain to capture the Spanish Civil War — one of the events that leads to World War II — her eagerness to document the fight against fascism costs her life. Acclaimed author Kip Wilson tells Gerda's story in compelling verse, introducing readers to a little-known but devoted truth teller, and the first woman photojournalist killed in combat.