March 1987 was the first designated Women’s History Month in the United States. President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the week of March 8, 1980, as the first Women’s History Week. This was followed by additional Women’s History Week observances that eventually became the month-long celebration recognizing the achievements and contributions of women.
We found three books that celebrate amazing women from history, some better known than others. These books will inspire girls and boys to overcome stereotypes and hardship.
Frida Kahlo: The Revolutionary Painter by James Buckley. Illustrated by Cassie Anderson
From the popular Show Me History series, this graphic novel tells the story of Frida Kahlo, whose dream of becoming a doctor ended when she was in a bus accident at age eighteen. She turned to painting as a form of therapy and became one of the most famous artists in the world. This biography shows how Kahlo overcame pain to revolutionize the art world.
Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart by Candace Fleming
Amelia Earhart may be the most famous female pilot of all time, but what do you know about her other than she disappeared? This book goes far beyond the final flight to tell the story of a trailblazing flier.
Hidden Powers: Lisa Meitner’s Call to Science by Jeannine Atkins
Lisa Meitner dreamed of becoming a scientist, but girls were supposed to be mothers and homemakers in her time. That didn’t stop Lisa. She became a pioneer in physics and helped discover nuclear fission. Though only her research partner, a man, received the Nobel Prize, Meitner’s discovery changed the world.