Inspiring Illustrated Biographies for Women's History Month

The month of March serves as a time to honor the achievements and contributions made by women throughout the history of the United States. These biographies teach young readers about American women who are recognized for their unique contributions and groundbreaking achievements. 

The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne by Lesa Cline-Ransome; Illustrated by John Parra  

           

Young Ethel L. Payne had an ear for stories and courage to ask tough questions, earning her the distinction of being the first Black woman invited into the White House briefing room and the nickname, The First Lady of the Black Press. This inspiring picture book chronicles the joys and hardships of Payne’s early life and her professional achievements including reporting from across the globe and drawing attention to critical civil rights issues.

I’ve had a box seat on history and that’s a rare thing. 

Ethel L. Payne      

           

Marjory Saves the Everglades: The Story of Marjory Stoneman Douglas by Sandra Neil Wallace; Illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon

Have you ever visited the Everglades? 

Known as the river of grass, the Florida Everglades are the home of amazing plants and animals like alligators, manatee, and ghost orchids. This beautiful illustrated picture books describes the conservation efforts of Marjory Stoneman Douglas and includes descriptions of the interesting creatures that live in the Everglades. 

To The Stars! The First American Woman to Walk In Space by Carmella Van Vleet and Dr. Kathy Sullivan; Illustrated by Nicole Wong

As a child, Kathy Sullivan loved to explore and dreamed of faraway places. Always curious, she studied maps, books, and foreign languages and explored both underwater in lakes and in the air when she piloted a plane as a teenager. As a NASA astronaut, Dr. Kathy Sullivan went on three missions into space, was the first American woman to take a space walk, and the first female payload commander. 

To the Stars! is an inspiring biography for anyone with a dream.  

Alicia Cavitt

Information Specialist