Women Who Changed the World: 5 Inspiring Nonfiction Picture Books for Kids
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s important to acknowledge and uplift the stories of BIPOC women leaders who have made significant contributions to society. One way to do this is through reading and sharing nonfiction picture books that introduce young readers to these inspiring figures. Here are five nonfiction picture books that tell the stories of BIPOC women leaders who broke barriers and paved the way for future generations.
Because Claudette by Tracey Baptiste
This book tells the story of Claudette Colvin, a young black girl who refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus nine months before Rosa Parks did the same. Despite facing arrest and discrimination, Claudette remained steadfast in her fight for justice, becoming a symbol of resistance in the civil rights movement.
The Green Piano: How Little Me Found Music by Roberta Flack
In this autobiographical picture book, Grammy Award-winning artist Roberta Flack shares her journey from a small town in North Carolina to the stages of the world. She reflects on her childhood in a home surrounded by music and love: it all started with a beat-up piano that her father found in a junkyard, repaired, and painted green.
Sharice’s Big Voice: A Native Kid Becomes a Congresswoman by Sharice Davids
Sharice Davids made history in 2018. This picture book autobiography tells the triumphant story of Sharice Davids, one of the first two Native American women ever elected to Congress — and the first openly LGBTQ+ congressperson to represent Kansas in Washington. She also encourages young readers to use their voices to make a difference.
Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Real-Life Tales of Black Girl Magic by Jestine Ware, Sonja Thomas, Lilly Workneh & Cashawn Thomas
This book is a collection of 100 stories of black women who have made a significant impact in their fields, from science and technology to the arts and activism. Each story is accompanied by a beautiful illustration, making it a perfect book for young readers.
She Was the First!: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm by Katheryn Russell-Brown
Shirley Chisholm was a trailblazing politician who became the first black woman elected to Congress and the first woman to run for president. This book tells the story of her growing up in Brooklyn, highlighting the challenges she faced and the impact she made on American politics.
These five books offer inspiring and empowering stories of BIPOC women leaders who have made a difference in the world. By sharing their stories with young readers, we can encourage the next generation to follow in their footsteps and make their own mark on history.
