International Women’s Day Picture Books
In this blog post I’m sharing some of my favorite International Women’s Day picture books that you can introduce to your classroom.
International Women’s Day is the perfect opportunity to teach our students about the achievements, strength, and resilience of women throughout our history and across all cultures.
Scroll down to find my favorite picture books to use with my students to celebrate International Women’s Day.
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1. Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty
Meet Ada Twist, a curious and determined young scientist. This book highlights the power of curiosity, perseverance, and the importance of asking “why.” Ada is an inspiring role model for young girls interested in STEM fields.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
2. Malala’s Magic Pencil by Malala Yousafzai
Written by Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story of her dream for a better world where every child has access to education.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
3. She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton
This inspiring book shares the stories of 13 women who overcame challenges to achieve their dreams. From Harriet Tubman to Oprah Winfrey, it’s a celebration of persistence and resilience.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
4. I Am Enough by Grace Byers
With a lyrical text and beautiful illustrations, this book really does encourage young readers to embrace their uniqueness and to treat themselves and others with kindness.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
5. Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos by Monica Brown
This picture book introduces children to the life of artist Frida Kahlo, highlighting her love for animals and how they inspired her famous works.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
6. The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad
This book is written by Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad. The story follows Faizah and her older sister Asiya on the first day Asiya wears her hijab to school.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
7. Brave Ballerina: The Story of Janet Collins by Michelle Meadows
This biography celebrates Janet Collins, the first Black prima ballerina to perform at the Metropolitan Opera. It’s a beautiful read and this book highlights her determination to follow her dreams.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
8. Joan Procter, Dragon Doctor by Patricia Valdez
Introduce your students to Joan Procter, a pioneering reptile expert and zoologist who worked at the London Zoo. Her love for animals and her groundbreaking work make her an inspiring figure for young readers.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
9. The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin by Julia Finley Mosca
This book is one of my absolute favorites. This engaging book tells the story of Dr. Temple Grandin, an autistic woman who became a leader in the field of animal science. It’s an inspiring tale of innovation and perseverance.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
10. Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly
This adapted version of the bestselling book shares the stories of four brilliant women who worked as mathematicians at NASA, playing a crucial role in the space race.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
11. Zaha Hadid by Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
If you love the “Little People, Big Dreams” books as much as we do, then this one is going to be perfect to add to your collection. This book introduces readers to Zaha Hadid, an extraordinary architect whose designs changed skylines around the world.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
12. Shark Lady: The True Story of Eugenie Clark by Jess Keating
This book is truly beautiful! It celebrates Eugenie Clark, a fearless scientist who loved sharks and dedicated her life to studying them. Her story encourages children to follow their passions, no matter the obstacles.
Find it on;
– USA Amazon
– UK Amazon
Why Picture Books Matter for International Women’s Day
Picture books are a powerful tool that we can use in our classrooms. For International Women’s Day, I love using picture books to teach my students about equality, diversity, and the achievements of women.
The books that I have shared in this blog post will help your students learn how women and girls have shaped history, pursued their dreams, and inspired others to follow their paths.
Ways to Celebrate International Women’s Day with Picture Books
If you are looking for more ways to celebrate International Women’s Day with your students, then these may help;
- Read Together: Share these stories during circle time or within your classroom library to start meaningful discussions.
- Craft Activities: Encourage children to create art inspired by the books, like making paper flowers for Miss Rumphius or building “inventions” like Rosie Revere.
- Highlight Local Heroes: Pair the books with stories about inspiring women in your community to make the celebration more personal.
If you found this blog post helpful, please consider sharing it with your friends and colleagues on social media.
What’s your favorite books to use for International Women’s Day? Leave a comment below to share with other teachers.
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Nikki
