When I was a kid, I loved reading–it was literally my favorite thing to do. Of course, this doesn’t come as a huge shocker to anyone (considering I became a writer), but I did often feel left out.
Why? Because most books were about boys. I was tired of reading about all the cool things boys got to do. Sure, there was “Madeline” and “Angelina Ballerina,” among many other great classics, but in a world full of cartoons and books about boys (do I even need to list?), it was hard not to feel slighted.
Because of this, I rounded up some new children’s books that have girls as main characters. It’s important for girls to feel included, and to feel awesome. Naturally, books are a good place to start.
Here are some of my favorites:
1. “Sidewalk Flowers,” by JonArno Lawson
This book is actually wordless, but the pictures follow around a little girl who collects wildflowers while she walks with her dad. It teaches us to pay attention to details, as the small things in life can bring us great joy.
2. “Wild,” by Emily Hughes
In this book, we meet a little girl who was taught to talk by birds, to eat by bears, and to play by foxes. One day, she meets other humans, and is taken into civilization. What will happen to her?
3. “This Is Sadie,” by Sara O’Leary
Sadie is a little girl with a huge imagination. She’s done a lot already–she’s lived under the sea, has wings, and was raised by wolves. This book teaches us that using our imaginations can spawn beautiful things–and that life is full of endless possibilities.
4. “City Shapes,” by Diana Murray
This book follows around a young girl who is walking around her urban neighborhood, noticing the skyscrapers, stars, and sidewalks. This is a must-read for any child who lives in a busy city, as it teaches them to see shapes and natural beauty even in unnatural places.
5. “Freckleface Strawberry,” by Julianne Moore
This book is definitely a must for any kid who has freckles and feels like they don’t fit in. Freckles make us different and unique–as does all of our physical and mental attributes–and this book teaches kids about acceptance. Plus it’s by the awesome actress Julianne Moore!
6. “Singing Away the Dark,” by Caroline Woodward
On her way to catch the school bus, this little girl encounters a lot of impediments, like wire gates, dark woods, and icy cold winds. Will she be able to sing her way out of the dark?
7. “Journey,” by Aaron Becker
A lonely girl draws a magic door on her bedroom wall and escapes through it into a fanciful world of adventure. She learns about self-determination, independence, and finds that friendship comes in unexpected ways.
Share some of your favorite children’s books with main female characters in the comments below!
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