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Celebrating National Women’s History Month with Your Children and with Books

March 4th, 2014
Bonnie · Staff Recommendations

Did you know that as recently as thirty years ago women’s history was almost non-existent in many schools’ curricula? For example, many stories depicted girls and women passively watching the boys play or simply waiting to be noticed by them. Many textbooks at that time left out a majority of women’s contributions or limited them to those women in more traditional, nurturing roles.

Women’s History Month was created in 1987 to pay tribute to the generations of women who contributed to events throughout history and in contemporary society. These days many schools acknowledge Women’s History Month through activities that focus on strong, courageous and intelligent women.

Parents and caregivers can acknowledge Women’s History Month at home by reading books both about and by these women, and by talking about them with their children. We have many books to choose from at the library. Stop by and check some out. Here are a few suggestions:

Remember the Ladies: A Story about Abagail Adams by Jeri FerrisThe story of a feisty, brilliant, extraordinary woman who helped her husband create a new country.

Lives of Extraordinary Women by Kathleen KrullCleopatra, Eleanor of Aquitane, Joan of Arc and Isabella I were all real people with interests and personalities. This book turns the spotlight on some of the world’s most influential women, flaws and all.

Louis May Alcott: Author of Little Women by Karen Clemens WarrenThis book traces the life of a woman who used her own experiences to write some of the most famous and beloved children’s stories, includingLittle Women.

Helen Keller: Break Down the Walls! by Margaret FettyAlways determined to break down the walls that held her back, Helen Keller led a fascinating life. This book chronicles her life, with many photographs included.

Harriet Tubman by Dana Meachen RauIncluded in this biography is a timeline of important events, a glossary, a Did You Know? section of fun facts, and an index. This is perfect for school assignments.

Women in Space: Reaching the Last Frontier by Carole BriggsHow were the original female astronauts chosen? What was their training like? What did they do in space? These questions and more are answered in this factual book about many of the women who have flown in space.

Eleanor Roosevelt by Mary WingetA short biography, but packed with details and photographs, this book will help young readers know more about this famous, intelligent and courageous American woman.

A Picture Book of Sacagawea by David AdlerSacagawea was brave of heart and strong of spirit. The translator for Lewis and Clark, she led an amazing life, full of adventure and danger. The colorful illustrations help to understand a little of what life was like for this heroic Native American woman.

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