Who doesn't love a great female role model? All kids, regardless of gender, can benefit from seeing strong leading ladies in their everyday lives.
Strong female role models are so important for children. Having women in our lives that we support, respect and aspire to be helps us all to grow as people, and books are a fantastic way to show children that they can achieve whatever they set their minds to, no matter who they are.
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From Coco Chanel to a rocketship mechanic Cinderella, female role models come in all shapes, sizes and life paths. Here are seven of our favourites.
ALONG CAME COCO by EVA BYRNE
Coco came along at a time where children were meant to be seen, not heard. But with an eye for fashion and an unsurpassed talent for sewing, there was no stopping this young fashion designer. This book tells the story of a young Coco Chanel and the value of trusting your passion and imaginative spirit.
AMELIA EARHART: ADVENTURER AND AVIATOR written by ANNE CARROLL illustrated by DERRY DILLON
With yet another familiar female, this book tells the story of world-renowned Amelia Earhart, who loved nothing more than setting records and meeting any and all challenges with bravery and enthusiasm. Big thumbs up from us!
MIGHTY MIN written by MELISSA CASTRILLON
She is small, but boy oh boy is she mighty. In this exciting tale, tiny Min is about to go on a massive adventure in her magical world, where she discovers how brave and capable she really is - just like her ferocious aunts!
ROBERTS ROSIE REVERE, ENGINEER written by ANDREA BEATY illustrated by DAVID
We highly recommended this one for children who may need a reminder that the sky is the limit, no matter who they are. Rosie Revere is a stunning tale about a little girl who learns to never, ever give up on her dreams and to take failure on the chin.
JILL & DRAGON by LESLEY BARNES
Jill befriends an unhappy dragon who is hated by the king for his lack of talents. She goes on a mission to find what he is good at - a gift that is uniquely his and his alone. A heartwarming tale of celebrating individuality and learning to like ourselves for who we are.
RUBY’S WISH written by SHIRIN YIM BRIDGES illustrated by SOPHIE BLACKALL
Ruby is certainly not like the other girls in old China - instead of aspiring to get married, Ruby wants to go to college like her brothers. Ruby's Wish is an inspiring tale about believing in yourself no matter what and not being afraid to stray from the beaten path - we love this one.
INTERSTELLAR CINDERELLA written by DEBORAH UNDERWOOD illustrated by MEG HUNT
This tale has all the loveliness from the original Cinderella but with a science-fiction-esque, modern twist. This Cinderella wants nothing more than to be a rocketship mechanic, but where does the Prince come into all of this? Facing big decisions like career and love, Cinderella is strong, decisive and a great female role model.
Would you add anyone to our list of female role models?
Family Friendly HQ are delighted to bring you this content in partnership with Children's Books Ireland. Children's Books Ireland works with families, teachers, libraries, publishers and communities all across the island to get books into children's hands. They believe that every child should have access to the joy of reading, regardless of their circumstances. Check out childrensbooksireland.ie for more information, reading suggestions and helpful resources.
