There has never been a better time in history to be female. Parents are doing a great job raising strong, capable young women, but it still takes a village to raise any child. And in lieu of a village, books can help. Inspiring stories and strong female role models can help shape, nurture, and inspire girls to be the best, strongest and smartest versions of themselves.
We’ve put together a great list of books that celebrate girls and all their sporty, brave, magical, and scientific qualities and attributes! There are empowering reads, characters who are smart and funny, reads that inspire the sportswoman in all girls, a call to arms… and one incredible character who embraces her differences. There are countless inspiring stories to share with the young girls in our lives, but the books listed below really are special. Read one or read them all, and support our future leaders. Girls really can rule the world.
Boss Ladies of Sport by Phillip Marsden
Inspire and empower young readers with this celebration of female athletes. Boss Ladies includes Australian legends like Sam Kerr, Ash Barty and Ariarne Titmus as well as international superstars like Ruby Tui, Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka and the Williams sisters.
Every single boss lady was once a little kid with a huge dream. Captivate your young boss lady’s imagination with this inspiring read.
Nevermoor Books 1-3 Box Set by Jessica Townsend
Morrigan Crow and the magical world of Nevermoor continues to captivate young readers. The first three books in Jessica Townsend's #1 New York Times bestselling NEVERMOOR series is now conveniently boxed in this gorgeous collectible set, making it the perfect gift for any reader.
Bella the Brave by Rebel Wilson, ill. by Annabel Tempest
Bella thinks she’s shy. She has a lot to say, but just can’t find the way to say it… until she finds herself at choir practice. Turns out, Bella is brave and bold… she just doesn't know it yet. Rebel Wilson’s first book is an empowering read for children, and perfect for these holidays.
The Amazing Edie Eckhart by Rosie Jones, ill. by Natalie Smille
Edie Eckhart is eleven years old and a little bit different. She has a disability called cerebral palsy, so talks slowly and falls over a lot. But she’s just about to start secondary school, so although she’s a bit wobbly… she's not going to let that stop her! This is a fun, uplifting new middle-grade series.
Instructions for a Teenage Armageddon by Rosie Day
This is call to arms for teenage girls, that will inspire them towards a Teenage Armageddon. Rosie Day collected letters from some of the world's most loved and respected female figures that will guide and inspire teenage girls and women everywhere. Who’s ready to take over the world?
Wednesday Weeks series by Denis Knight, Cristy Burne
Wednesday Weeks loves science, not magic… she never wanted to be a sorcerer's apprentice. But she finds herself using her magical heritage to save her grandfather from a goblin king. This new series is funny and seriously smart… perfect for capturing and nurturing young imaginations.
We chat with Charlotte Barkla, author of Let's Try Again Another Day.
We chat to bestselling author Danielle Binks about her new middle-grade novel and the magic of kids' literature.
Congratulations to our CBCA 2024 Shortlist
Celebrating our 2024 Shortlisted Titles for the Children's Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Awards!
Learn more about one of Australia's most awarded and respected writers for young people.
Books to Read on Your Camping Trip
If you’re taking the kids camping in the wild this summer, or even if you’re pitching a tent in the backyard, then this is the book list you need.