The Ultimate Way to Celebrate Women’s History Month

If you’re looking for Women’s History Month books you’re in the right place.

Last week, I was subbing, and like always, I came prepared with books.
(books are a lifesaver when you’ve got extra time after finishing a lesson!)

Before diving into my read-aloud, I pulled out the Women’s History Month Craftivities and asked the students if they recognized any of the figures.

Can you guess which one they knew?

Rosa Parks.

Not surprising. At all.

I read them Mae Among the Stars and showed them the cover, asking what they thought the story would be about.

That’s when it hit me—just how perfect books are for introducing historical figures to students.

I’ve built up quite the collection of books about historical figures over the years. In fact, after reading Mae Among the Stars to my youngest son, he became obsessed with becoming an astronaut. That’s the power of a book!

📚 Reading books is important.
📚 Reading a variety of books is important.
📚 Reading about people who have made a difference in the world is important.

As middle school teachers, we sometimes dismiss picture books as “too juvenile.” But let me tell you—middle schoolers love being read to just as much as first graders do.

Ever had a 6th grader ask to see the pictures in a book because they couldn’t see them well enough?

I have.

So, if you’re introducing a historical figure…

let’s say the ever-popular Rosa Parks, start by reading books about her life.

What she did.

Her contributions.

The challenges she faced.

This builds background knowledge and, more importantly, helps students strengthen a skill they often struggle with…

Listening.

Here are some of my go-to books for Women’s History Month, including those that pair perfectly with my Women’s History Craftivities:

Women included in the book list:

• Simone Biles
• Rosa Parks
• Mae Jemison
• Harriet Tubman
• Ruth Bader Ginsburg
• Celia Cruz
• Frida Kahlo
• Jane Goodall
• Katherine Johnson
• Misty Copeland
• Kamala Harris
• Marie Curie
• Amelia Earhart
• Sylvia Earle

Do you have any must-read books about inspiring women? Drop them in the comments. I’d love to add to my collection!

Check out more blog posts:

Teacher Appreciation Gift Idea

Celebrate Black History Month in Your Classroom