Women Who Dared: 52 Stories of Fearless Daredevils, Adventurers, and Rebels by Linda Skeers, illustrated by Livi Gosling (Sourcebooks Explore, $16.99, 9781492653271), published in 2017, is an introduction to women throughout history who dared to do the extraordinary for young readers, especially girls, aged 9-12.
Women have been doing amazing, daring and dangerous things for years, but they're rarely mentioned in our history books as adventurers, daredevils or rebels. This new compilation of brief biographies features women throughout history who have risked their lives for adventure, such as:
Annie Edson Taylor, the first person who dared to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel. Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman who dared to fly in space. Helen Gibson, the first woman who dared to be a professional stunt person. And many more!
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If you loved Women Who Dared, you'll love The Story Of series. These biographies for ages 6-9 teach young readers about activists, artists, athletes and more from all across history. Recent highlights of this 38 book series include:
The Story of Katherine Johnson by Andrea Thorpe (Rockridge Press, $6.99, 9781638070313). Katherine Johnson was one of the best mathematicians in the history of the United States. Before her math skills helped send the first American astronauts safely into space, she was a smart and curious girl who loved to learn new things about the world around her. She studied hard in school and became one of the first Black women hired by NASA.
The Story of Maya Angelou by Tiffany Obeng (Rockridge Press, $6.99, 9798886508222). Maya Angelou was an acclaimed author, poet, historian, singer and songwriter, playwright, director, and civil rights activist. Before she was known for her unique and pioneering autobiographical writing style, Maya was a young girl interested in the written word. From an early age she wrote essays, poetry and kept a journal. She used her powerful voice to share her experiences and unite the world through her written words.
The Story of Sojourner Truth by Anita Crawford Clark (Callisto Kids, $7.99, 9798886509397). Sojourner Truth, born Isabella Baumfree, was one of the most important leaders in the anti-slavery movement. Before she fought for freedom and changed American history, she was a young enslaved girl who wanted a better life for herself and for all Black people. She overcame many incredible challenges as she bravely stood up for equality and justice.