Best Picture Books on Strong, Inspiring Women

by Jennifer J. Merz
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5 books
Children, girls particularly, need inspiring role models to encourage them to break through barriers or cultural limitations of what they can accomplish. It is by learning of others’ trials and triumphs that children find the courage to pursue their own dreams. As a mother and teacher as well as picture-book writer/illustrator, the most important goal I can think of is fueling a child’s imagination with future possibilities by providing true stories of trailblazing women. My reviews, and my own book, highlight remarkable women in the arts, government, sports, social work, and history. I hope you enjoy these books!
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Steadfast: Frances Perkins, Champion of Workers' Rights

Jennifer J. Merz, 2020
When Frances Perkins witnessed New York City’s Triangle Factory fire in 1911, her desire to help the American worker transformed into a lifelong mission. Determined to fix workplace injustices at a time when women were discouraged from speaking up -- let alone having careers -- she became the first woman in a U.S. Presidential Cabinet and the force behind the New Deal, vast programs that protect workers to this day. This is the inspiring story of a heroic trailblazer, the most important woman you may not have heard of—yet!

Brave Girl

Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers' Strike of 1909
Michelle Markel, 2013
Brave Girl is the amazing story of Clara Lemlich and the Shirtwaist Makers’ Strike of 1909. Clara, a young Jewish immigrant, was instrumental in fighting against poor treatment of textile factory workers, leading the largest walkout of women workers in US history. Clara embodies ‘being able to do what you put your mind to,’ spending long hours studying, working, and advocating for downtrodden workers, fighting for fairness. This book not only inspires activism, but provides readers with a glimpse into the harsh realities of past working environments. Told clearly and sensitively, Brave Girl is a wonderful blend of historical content, engaging story, and imaginative illustrations. This book should not be missed!

Dangerous Jane

?The Life and Times of Jane Addams, Crusader for Peace
Suzanne Slade, 2017
This is a marvelous picture book on Jane Addams, founder of Hull House in 1889. Hull House was a Chicago settlement house for newly-arrived European immigrants. When we first meet Jane, she is a sad, sickly child who relates to those living without hope. She promises to help them when she grows up – and she does! Through her tenacity and grit, she studies, travels, and figures out how to help struggling families. Called “Saint Jane” when Hull House opened, she also formed the Women’s Peace Party during WWI. A Nobel Peace Prize winner, Jane Addams is an inspiration. The text of Dangerous Jane is spare, clear, and poetic; illustrations are beautifully drawn and carefully designed. This book is a treasure!

Bloom

A Story of Fashion Designer Elsa Schiaparelli
Kyo Maclear, 2018
BLOOM: A Story of Fashion Designer Elsa Schiaparelli is a visual feast! Pages are strewn with illustrations created in designer colors and, of course, Schiaparelli’s signature color: SHOCKING PINK! Entering this book, readers might have the impression of sniffing a fragrant bouquet of flowers or savoring an Italian pastry. Schiaparelli’s life was not easy, but her resolve to conquer her problems and become an artist/fashion designer is inspiring. She Blooms! The true story is engaging and fast-paced. The pictures are imaginative and exciting, just like Schiap herself. Get your hands on this book. You won’t be disappointed!

Joni: the Lyrical Life of Joni Mitchell

Selina Alko, 2020
Joni Mitchell painted with words,” begins this beautifully lyrical book on the well-known singer/song-writer. The colorful and imaginative collage illustrations jump off the page, telling the story of the girl from a small town in Canada who vanquished polio to go on to become a household name. Joni Mitchell used poetry to paint her feelings into song. We know her music and lyrics as a familiar soundtrack to our lives; now children can learn about the enigmatic spirit behind all that creative musicality.