If there is one thing that gets me really excited, it’s children’s literature. It’s often where children are introduced to their culture, where they shape their understanding of their place in the world, and can provide a plethora of significant parenting opportunities.
Inspired by the New York Times’ list of feminist children’s books, I’ve pulled together some of my own favorites to create a truly empowering list for future feminists.
My First Book of Feminism (for Boys)
This book, written by Julie Merberg and illustrated by Michele Brummer-Everett, teaches both girls and boys (despite the title) about the word “feminism” at its most basic roots: gender equality. The book works hard to eliminate everyday stereotypes and encourages children of every gender to work hard, do their chores, and reach for any career they may find interesting.
The book, aimed at children ages zero-three, presents issues that adults are discussing worldwide in simple ways. It teaches “no means no,” “women’s rights are human rights,” and many more.
Purchase the book here.
Not Every Princess
Practicing psychologists Jeffrey and Lisa Bone bring us an award-winning children’s book on feminism with Not Every Princess. The book was the recipient of the Silver Medal, IndieFab’s Book of the Year, and was a top ten title on the 2015 ALA Rainbow List.
The story, written for ages four through eight, takes its readers on a journey through childhood imagination and questions our societal definitions of gender and gender roles. “Not every princess lives in a castle. Not every fairy has wings,” the story goes. We see examples of young viking girls in tree houses, pirates, mermaids, and many other childhood dreams.
Purchase the book here.
I Am a Warrior Goddess
I mean, with a title like this how could we not include it in a NYMM article? This book is for everyone! It will inspire young girls and demonstrate their strength to anyone else who chooses to read it.
Author Jennifer Adams brings us something special with this 2018 publication. It follows the story of a girl who greets each day with a positive attitude, takes time to connect with nature, take care of herself by staying healthy, and sees the strength in everyday actions and being kind to one another.
Purchase the book here.
She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World
I couldn’t build this list for you without including a nonfiction title. In She Persisted, author Chelsea Clinton (daughter of the former First Lady and Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton), presents 13 stories of revolutionary women in American history.
Some of these stories include Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, Oprah Winfrey, and Sally Ride, all of which are accompanied by attention-grabbing illustrations by Alexandra Boiger. The book, meant for children ages 4-8, is inspiring and educational, and an all-around must-have for your child’s bookshelf.
Purchase the book here.
Featured Image by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
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