10 books to give to young feminists for International Book Giving Day

In 2019 research showed 1 in 11 disadvantaged children didn’t have a book of their own. While that’s an improvement on the numbers from 2017 (1 in 7), it’s still a big issue. And with the cost of living rising, it’s possible those numbers will increase as people focus on paying for necessities. 

International Book Giving Day, held every 14 February, is a volunteer-led initiative aimed at increasing children’s access to and enthusiasm for books”.  

It’s the perfect day to donate books or support charities that work with communities to increase children’s literacy, such as the Children’s Book Project. The 10 books below are great options if you’re looking for a book to donate. They also make great gifts for the young feminists in your life. 

Books for younger readers

Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls by Elena Favalli and Francesca Cavallo. This is the first in the Rebel Girls series, covering real life stories of 100 extraordinary women. The series has been expanded with a number of other books. Sequels cover amazing Black women in history, 100 immigrant women who changed the world, climate warriors and more. 

Dear Girl by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, Paris Krouse Rosenthal and Holly Hatam. This illustrated book has a lovely message, teaching girls they’re perfect the way they are. 

Little Leaders: Visionary Women Around the World by Vashti Harrison. This is another inspiring collection covering the true stories of 40 women creators. Women covered range from inventors to artists to activists. 

Malala’s Magic Pencil by Malala Yousafzai. This book tells Malala’s inspiring story in her own words. For younger readers, the illustrated book shows everyone is capable of pushing for change.  

Vote for Effie by Laura Wood. This is children’s novel follows Effie as she runs for class president and aims to make her school a more inclusive place. It’s another book that encourages children to feel empowered and change the world around them.  

Books for older children and teens

Feminists Don’t Wear Pink (and Other Lies), curated by Scarlett Curtis. This essay anthology features 52 women explaining what feminism means to them. Contributors include Emma Watson, Lolly Adefope, Karen Gillan and Akilah Hughes.

A Phoenix First Must Burn: Sixteen Stories of Black Girl Magic, Resistance, and Hope, edited by Patrice Caldwell. This collection features 16 speculative tales by award-winning and bestselling authors. The writers explore the Black experience through fantasy and science fiction, blending SFF and social justice for young adult readers.  

Girls Resist!: A Guide to Activism, Leadership, and Starting a Revolution, by KaeLyn Rich. This  is a great guide for teens who want to get active in fighting for a more just society. 

“I Will Not Be Erased”: Our Stories About Growing Up As People of Colour by gal-dem. This is a brilliant collection of 14 essays from the team behind gal-dem magazine. Using raw materials from their own teen years, the writers of each essay craft advice for their younger selves – and for anyone growing up now. 

Moxie by Jennifer Matthieu. A fun YA novel looking at how one girl can make a difference by standing up for what she thinks is right, forging friendships with other girls along the way and challenging the status quo in her high school. 

If you’ve got other recommendations for great feminist reads for children and young adults, feel free to add your suggestions in the comments section.


Image description: Featured image shows a young girl with dark hair and glasses sitting on the floor reading a book. She’s surrounded by filled bookshelves. Photo by Eliott Reyna on Unsplash, used with permission under the Unsplash license.