Everyone loves a good Girl Power story. They help us feel empowered, like we can do anything in the world.
My wonderful sister sent a truly beautiful book my way, and I absolutely love it. It’s a book about Bobbi Gibb, the first woman to compete in a marathon. I was surprised to read that she first ran the Boston marathon in 1966… so recently! The book quotes her rejection letter when she applied for the marathon, stating that a woman is physically incapable of running such a long distance. Women were officially allowed to compete in the Boston marathon for the first time in 1972, almost 50 years ago. I am realizing more and more how fortunate I am to be born in this country, at this time. Women have had the right to vote for barely one hundred years! We have come a long way in such a short time, and I hope we continue breaking down stereotypes in the future. I hope more than anything that my daughters grow up knowing they can do anything they want to. I hope for them to be confident, happy, kind, and ambitious. I want them to take hold of every opportunity life throws their way, and I am so grateful for brave women like Bobbi Gibb who first broke the barriers that kept women out.
We have a handful of books that I love about woman empowerment. If you have any you just love, please share in the comments!
The Girl Who Ran-by Frances Poletti and Kristina Yee
The book about Bobbi Gibb, with beautiful illustrations and so fun to read aloud to my daughter. We had a great discussion about women in history, and how important it is to stick up for yourself even if people tell you you cannot do something.
Interstellar Cinderella– by Deborah Underwood
This is a fantastic twist on the classic Cinderella story, where our heroine is a talented mechanic! It’s set in space and quite charming.
The Paper Bag Princess– by Robert Munsch
I love this story! Elizabeth is a clever princess who uses her wit to outsmart a dragon and save her prince.
Ladybug Girl– by David Soman
This story is about a girl growing up, and discovering how powerful she can be, even in the little things. It’s a sweet story with an endearing main character that my girls love.
Rosie Revere, Engineer– by Andrea Beaty This book is so clever and fun to read. A little girl comes up with all kinds of crazy inventions for her relatives, fails, wants to give up, but tries again. The rhymes are fun and the illustrations are pretty great.
Anything but Ordinary Addie– by Mara Rockliff This is a true story about Adelaide Hermann, who became one of the first lead woman magicians in history. It’s a wonderful, beautifully illustrated adventure story about a girl who dances to her own beat.
What other stories do you and your kids love? Please share your favorite stories with us in the comments!
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