It is important for students to read books that show a diverse range of characters. These books about famous women would be an excellent addition to a classroom library or to use as read-alouds/mentor texts. It is important for girls to read about famous women and it is also important for students from diverse backgrounds to read about people like them. At the same time it is important for students to read about individuals from backgrounds that are different from their own.
Disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on an Amazon link and make a purchase. This does not cost you any extra money.
Malala’s Magic Pencil– Malala Yousafzai wrote a children’s book that introduces her readers to everyday life in Pakistan and helps inspire them to make a difference in the world around them.
The World is Not a Rectangle– This book tells the story of Zaha Hadid. She grew up in Iraq and became an architect. She overcomes many challenges along the way. The book is written in simple, often lyrical text.
Ordinary People Change the World: I am Jane Goodall– All of the books in the People that Changed the World series are written using simple text often in a graphic novel style. The books are written in first person. This book tells the story of Jane Goodall, and English scientist that began her conservation work learning about chimpanzees.
Four Feet Two Sandals– This book tells the story of two girls living in a refugee camp in Pakistan. It tells about everyday life for a refugee as well as follows the girls friendship. The book was inspired by a girl living in a refugee camp that asked the author why there were not any books that described her current situation.
Here is a teaching guide for this book from the author.
Little People Big Dreams: Marie Curie– Marie Curie was born in Poland and later immigrated to France. She made many scientific discoveries including the discoveries and won the Nobel Prize twice.
Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos– This book tells the story of Frida Kahlo. She lived in Mexico and became a world famous painter. The book has often lyrical text and beautiful images. It also highlights Kahlo’s love for animals.
My Name Is Gabriela/Me llamo Gabriela– This book is about Gabriela Mistral. She was born in Chile and grew up to be a teacher and poet. She became the first Latina women to win the Nobel Prize. This book is written in first person, in English and Spanish with beautiful illustrations.
Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World– This book highlights the achievements of women from around the world. There is one woman’s story for each letter of the alphabet. It includes the stories of Quah Ah, chen xiefen, Vijaya Pandit, Mother Teresa, Wilma Mankiller, and Yoshiko Uchida.
Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls– In this collection of one page stories written in fairy tale style, the stories of 100 inspirational women from around the world are told.