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There have always been strong women although we haven’t always known a lot about them. The availability of Information about women and their impact has come a long way since the first celebration of Women’s History Week. In 1987, that week was changed permanently into a month-long celebration. Books for children and youth are catching up, too, with more and more publications about women and their achievements. Malala Yousafzai who told her own story for young adult and adult readers in I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban (opens in a new window) (Little Brown), can now introduced to younger children in Malala Yousafzai: Warrior with Words (opens in a new window) by Karen Leggett Abouraya (StarWalk). Haunting collage illustrations combine with an informative, well-paced, and totally engaging narration about Malala, a “miracle in pink” who “stood up in front of the whole world to prove that words have power.” Malala’s own words demonstrate this, noted in the book’s additional back matter written to be accessible to both young readers and their adults. For me, this book and its subject embody the 2014 theme of Women’s History Month: Celebrating Women of Character, Courage, and Commitment (opens in a new window). Malala’s story is sure to inspire others to become word warriors, reminding all of us that individuals can — and do — make a difference, even when young. Discover more children’s books about Inspiring, Imaginative Women.

About the Author

Maria Salvadore is Reading Rockets’ consultant for children’s literature and literacy. Maria curates our themed booklists and writes the blog, Page by Page, which explores the best ways to use kids’ books both inside and outside of the classroom. She leads parent workshops for Ready To Learn (RTL) at WETA Public Broadcasting in Washington, D.C. She has also taught children’s literature at the University of Maryland, reviewed books for School Library Journal, and has served on various book award committees, including the Boston Globe/Horn Book Awards, Golden Kite, and the Caldecott Committee.

Publication Date
March 7, 2014
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