Women’s History Month: 10 Children's Books with BIPOC Characters Celebrating Courage, Learning and Leadership

This Women’s History Month, R2S celebrates the power of education, courage, creativity, and voice. The books below highlight girls and women who discover their strength, embrace who they are, and use learning as a tool to change their worlds. From scientists and poets to activists and everyday girls finding confidence, these stories remind young readers that their ideas matter and that they can begin shaping history right now. ​

1. Sulwe written by Lupita Nyong’o, illustrated by Vashti Harrison
Sulwe wishes for her skin to be lighter, believing it would make her more beautiful - until a magical journey helps her see her own radiant worth. Through this powerful story of self-discovery, young readers are reminded that confidence begins within and that every shade shines brightly.
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

2. Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You written by Sonia Sotomayor, illustrated by Rafael López
When children gather to plant a garden, they begin asking one another questions about their differences. Inspired by her own childhood, Justice Sonia Sotomayor shows readers that curiosity builds understanding and that asking questions is an important part of learning and growing.
​Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

3. I Am Enough written by Grace Byers
With lyrical affirmations and vibrant illustrations, this uplifting book reminds children that they are worthy exactly as they are. It encourages self-love, kindness, and resilience, empowering young readers to walk confidently in their own unique gifts.
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

4. Ho'onani: Hula Warrior written by Heather Gale, illustrated by Mika Song
Ho'onani Kamai dreams of leading the boys-only hula troupe at her school. With courage and determination, she stays true to herself and honors her culture, showing how bravery and support can help young people embrace who they are.
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

5. What I Must Tell the World: How Lorraine Hansberry Found Her Voice written by Jay Leslie
Lorraine Hansberry loved words from a young age and used them to speak boldly about justice and equality. This inspiring biography follows her journey to becoming a groundbreaking playwright, showing children how education and courage can help them find and use their voice.
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

6. Rainbow Weaver written by Linda Elovitz Marshall and illustrated by Elisa Chavarri
​Ixchel longs to learn the traditional weaving of her community, but when resources are scarce, she finds an inventive new way to create. Through problem-solving and perseverance, she shows readers that creativity and determination can preserve culture and inspire change.
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

7. Malala’s Magic Pencil written by Malala Yousafzai and illustrated by Kerascoët and Sarah J. Coleman
As a child, Malala dreamed of having a magic pencil to fix the world’s problems. She soon discovered that education was the true magic, giving her the power to stand up for girls’ right to learn. Her story inspires young readers to see school as a pathway to courage and change.
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

8. Girls on the Rise written by Amanda Gorman and illustrated by Loveis Wise
​Through powerful poetry, author Amanda Gorman calls girls everywhere to lift their voices and step into their strength. This vibrant celebration of leadership and unity encourages readers to support one another and rise together.
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

9. Lucia the Luchadora written by Cynthia Leonor Garza
Lucia wants to be a superhero, but she’s told that girls can’t be luchadores. With imagination, determination, and a little sparkle, she challenges expectations and discovers that bravery comes from believing in yourself.
​Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

10. Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and The Space Race written by Margot Lee Shetterly and Winifred Conkling, illustrated by Laura Freeman
Four brilliant Black women use their math and determination to help send astronauts into space during the Space Race. Their story highlights the power of education, teamwork, and perseverance as they break barriers and make history.
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

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6 Children's Books Celebrating Creativity and Imagination
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