Each March, Americans celebrate National Women’s History Month. This is a chance to recognize women’s many incredible accomplishments throughout history. From Susan B. Anthony to Rosa Parks, Marie Curie to Sandra Day O’Connor, trailblazing women from all walks of life such as science, politics and education have shaped the way we live today… and will live in the future.

So, this month, introduce your children to some of these inspirational role models. Here are a few of our favorite books that highlight pioneering women and their impact in history. We’ve included books at all reading levels. And, if you use these on a read-aloud night, you just may learn something, too!

Who Was Amelia Earhart? by Kate Boehm Jerome

Amelia Earhart was a woman of many “firsts.” In 1932, she became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. In 1935, she also became the first woman to fly across the Pacific. From her early years, to her mysterious 1937 disappearance while attempting a flight around the world, young readers will find Amelia Earhart’s life a fascinating story.

Little People, BIG DREAMS, Rosa Parks by Lisbeth Kaiser

Rosa Parks grew up in Alabama, where she learned to stand up for herself at an early age. Rosa went on to become a civil rights activist. In 1955, she famously refused to give up her seat to a white man on a segregated bus, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Her courageous decision had a huge impact on civil rights, eventually leading to the end of segregation on public transport.

Martha Washington: America’s First Lady by Jean Brown Wagoner

Before there was a White House or even a United States, Martha Washington set the standard for every First Lady who would follow. During the Revolutionary War, she spent winters at military encampments with George, boosting troop morale during the darkest days of the conflict.

Before She was Harriet by James Ransome

We know her today as Harriet Tubman, a true hero who helped to free enslaved Black people as a conductor on the Underground Railroad. But in her lifetime, she was called by many names. As General Tubman, she was a Union spy. As Minty, she was a slave whose spirit could not be broken. As Araminta, she was a young girl whose father showed her the stars… and the first steps on the path to freedom.

Leaders Like Us: Sally Ride by Kaitlyn Duling

Sally Ride broke barriers as the first American woman to travel to space. Her historic flight aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1983 inspired countless young women to pursue careers in science and engineering. Her passion for education led her to promote STEM fields through her company, Sally Ride Science. And, her commitment to encouraging youth, especially girls, in scientific exploration is a key part of her legacy.

Billie Jean King: A Little Golden Book Biography by Anna Membrino

Billie Jean King is a tennis legend and a prominent advocate for gender equality in sports. Her victory in the “Battle of the Sexes” match against Bobby Riggs in 1973 was a pivotal moment in challenging gender stereotypes. King’s advocacy extended beyond the court as she fought for equal pay and opportunities for female athletes, as well. In addition, she founded the Women’s Tennis Association and championed Title IX, promoting gender equity in education and athletics.

Phenomenal AOC: The Roots and Rise of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez by Anika Aldamuy Denise

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, known by her initials, AOC is the youngest woman to serve in the U.S. Congress and she’s the U.S. Representative for New York’s 14th congressional district. AOC is a champion for legislation that benefits workers, women, and immigrants. She’s also outspoken about the climate crisis and sponsored the Green New Deal.

Lucretia Mott: Friend of Justice by Kem Knapp Sawyer

Quaker teacher, minister, abolitionist and leader of the Pennsylvania Peace Society, Lucretia Mott’s push for suffrage brought the whole movement into the mainstream. She was also an ardent abolitionist who sheltered runaway slaves. Mott co-organized the Seneca Falls Convention and signed the Declaration of Sentiments. Though Mott died thirty years before the 19th Amendment, her work helped bring it to life. 

Brave Clara Barton by Frank Murphy

Clara Barton never trained formally as a nurse, yet her impact on the profession knew no bounds. She started life as a teacher, though she had tended to her injured brother when she was younger. Barton was working as a copyist when the American Civil War broke out. She immediately rushed to a nearby train station to nurse the wounded. Over the course of the war, Barton became both nurse and organizer, managing and gaining medical supplies whilst caring for the wounded. After the war, she ran the Office of Missing Soldiers. In 1881, Barton founded the American Red Cross, an organization that still exists to this day.

Helen Keller by Margaret Davidson

Helen Keller was only a child when a disease left her deaf-blind. Through the help of her teacher Anne Sullivan, Keller began to communicate with the world. In 1904, she graduated from Radcliffe College. Keller’s work broadened public understanding of disability and made her one of the most famous women in the United States.

About Success Won’t Wait

Founded in 2002, Success Won’t Wait, Inc. is a not-for-profit literacy organization based in Wilmington, Delaware. Want to learn more about Success Won’t Wait’s book access and literacy projects, how to donate books or volunteer your time? Simply visit About Success Won’t Wait.

Read now, because success won’t wait!