International Women’s Day 2024 is inspired by equal opportunities, access to education, and the chance for women and girls to think big! By investing in the future of young women today, they can become the learners and leaders of tomorrow. Here are five books to encourage all children to follow their dreams. And we've linked to each book, so simply tap the image or the title to get your hands on them!
Little People, Big Dreams: Zaha Hadid (1-3 years)
The story of Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid is a tale of creativity and confidence. Zaha was a curious mind who designed her own bedroom at just nine years old and would go on to start a business designing world-famous buildings including the London 2012 Olympic Aquatic Centre. This edition in the Little People, Big Dreams series shows little readers that by believing in yourself, your vision can come to life.
What do the little ones in your life want to be when they grow up? Let them explore with the Little People, Big Dreams Career Word Search activity!
Malala's Magic Pencil (4-8 years)
Malala Yousafzai is best known as a Nobel Peace Prize winner and author, but her story began as a little girl with a dream to go to school. As a child in Pakistan, Malala made a wish for a magic pencil, hoping for a sleep-in or to keep her home clean. Though as she grew up, Malala learned there were more important things to wish for. In Malala’s first picture book, she shares her journey of hard work and how girls can make their own wishes come true.
Bonus Activity:
What would your child create with a magic pencil? Encourage them to draw and share what they would create with magic at their fingertips.
A Galaxy of Her Own: Amazing Stories of Women in Space (7 years and up)
One small step for girls, one giant leap for women! Here are 50 amazing stories of women scientists, astronauts, mathematicians, and more inspiring kids of all ages to shoot for the stars. A Galaxy of Her Own takes children on a rocket ship through time, exploring how women have been fundamental to the history of humans in space. Written by Libby Jackson, a trailblazing space expert herself, this book is full of fabulous female role models.
Queen of Physics: How Wu Chien Shiung Helped Unlock the Secrets of the Atom (5-9 years)
Meet Wu Chien Shiung, a famous physicist who was born in China over 100 years ago. With a name meaning “Courageous Hero,” Wu’s family knew she could achieve more by getting an education at a time when most girls couldn’t. A smart and outspoken figure, Wu’s life is sure to inspire the next generation of scientists.
Seeds of Change: Wangari's Gift to the World (7-10 years)
As a young girl in Kenya, Wangari learned to love nature, inspired by her community's passion for the smallest of animals to the tallest of trees. This bright and bold picture book explores Wangari’s hope to learn and challenge to save the environment one plant at a time. As the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize, Wangari proves even the seed of an idea can grow change.
Bonus Activity:
What does a scientist look like? A scientist can be anyone, including a girl! Learn about some of the amazing women working in science or technology today, and help your kids follow in their footsteps with fun cards and activities here.
By reading these books with children on International Women’s Day, and every day, young people can join the movement for equality in an approachable way. Each story celebrates women’s contribution to technology, politics, science, and the environment but they are also written and illustrated by women. In that way, every word and image shares the possibilities of learning.
