Written by: Carlo Castillo and Niña Isabelle Eblamo
Visuals by: John Patrick Villa
As Malala Yousafzai said, “One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world.” This Women’s Month, we adults hold the key in educating young girls, that they are capable of choosing what they want in life and that their actions can make an impact in this world.
Here are some children’s books made for young girls out there in efforts to break-down typical gender stereotypes and promote diverse gender roles:
Little Feminist Board Book Set
Written by: Emily Kleinman
Illustration by: Lydia Ortiz
Available at Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.ph/s.c8aYd
This colorful book set is available on four different topics: pioneers, leaders, artists, and activists. Each of the books shows real women that made a huge impact on the world perfect for children ages two to three years old. The books portray role models for young girls to look up to and they can also establish what they want to become or to achieve in their lives as they grow up.
Girls Are Not Chicks Coloring Book
Written by: Jacinta Bunnell & Julie Novak
Available at Amazon: https://amzn.to/2OZrBEY
This coloring book for preschoolers and up portrays the female gender stereotypes that women encounter in their daily lives. It contains pictures and figures that one can bring to life by coloring, along with words voicing out that women can be what they want to be. The pictures in this book show that girls can be creators, thinkers, and strong person herself.
Amazing Grace
Written by: Mary Hoffman
Illustrated by: Caroline Binch
Available at Amazon: https://amzn.to/3sl8qUO
Who says that Peter Pan can only be portrayed by boys?
Amazing Grace proves that girls are not confined to women's roles, they can choose whatever they want to become. This watercolor-illustrated children's book for ages four and up breaks racial inequality and gender roles by telling the story of Grace, a young black girl, who wanted to play the role of Peter Pan in a school play. However, her friends pointed out that she looks nothing like Peter for she is a woman of color and a girl. This did not hinder her from auditioning for the part and eventually playing the role with flair, all thanks to her grandmother’s advice and support.
Allie’s Basketball Dream
Written by: Barbara E. Barber
Illustrated by: Darryl Ligasan
Available at Amazon: https://amzn.to/3vOhROF
Allie’s Basketball Dream tells the story of Allie, a young girl who loves playing basketball. Her father is very supportive of her even though her friends told her that basketball is a “boy’s game”. Their words didn't stop her from playing but instead, she focused on her father’s encouragement and didn't give up on pursuing her dream of becoming a basketball player.
Allie’s Basketball Dream addresses self-determination for young aspiring athletes, especially girls, that despite ups and downs, they can continue their dreams through perseverance and a good support system.
I Look Like A Girl
Written and Illustrated by: Shiela Hamanaka
Available at Amazon: https://amzn.to/3siQQR0
“Throw out those glass slippers. Send fairies to sleep. No prince is waiting for me. For, if you look twice, past the sugar and spice, the eyes of a tiger you’ll see.”
Most girls’ ideal role is to be a princess. However, this book deviates from the typical “sugar, spice, and everything nice” narrative. The featured girls of different ethnicities embrace the wild animal inside them by picturing themselves as strong animals. This well-illustrated and limited edition book echoes women’s empowerment by encouraging young girls to be true to what they are inside.
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