Once Upon A Time… just kidding, this isn’t one of those stories. Actually out with the old and in with the new. The new-wave of children’s books. These don’t have a princess being rescued in sight; or a boy slaying a dragon, either. Say hello to five of our favourite books that are all about equality, empowerment and inspiring the minds of little ones so that they know they can be anything they want; and also so they know they can do anything they set their minds to.
Be warned, however, you WILL want to steal each and every one of these books to put on mama’s bedside table. Enjoy!
1 // Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls by Elena Favilliand and Francesca Cavallo
Reinventing both fairy tales and the type of stories little ones read before bed, Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls covers the stories of 100 heroic women throughout history. What’s more, the book is beautifully illustrated by 60 female artists from around the world. Expect to read about everyone from Elizabeth I to Ada Lovelace and from Serena Williams to JK Rowling. It’s an empowering read for kids and mamas alike! Volume 1 and 2 out now.
2 // Stories For Boys Who Dare to be Different by Ben Brooks
It’s no wonder this one has made multiple best-seller lists, it’s a story for boys with a twist. With loads of inspiring stories about boys who changed the world, it does not feature one tale of someone rescuing a princess or slaying a dragon. Instead, think the story of Louis Armstrong, Nelson Mandela, Daniel Radcliffe and more. Available now.
3 // Little People, Big Dreams series
From Rosa Parks to Coco Chanel and from Marie Curie to Amelia Earhart, in a similar vein to number one on this list, the Little People, Big Dreams series is a collection of stories so children can learn about notable people and be inspired but their interesting tales. Only this series has a book dedicated to each person. From artists to scientists, the series is aimed at teaching children that they can go on to achieve incredible things. Series out now.
4 // Just Breathe: Meditation, Mindfulness, Movement, and More by Mallika Chopra
Written by the daughter of the Deepak Chopra, Mallika is a wellness expert and has written this lovely book for kids aged eight to 12. Complete with colour illustrations, this is an accessible and fun meditation how-to book to inspire mindfulness and relaxation in little ones. Available for pre-order now.
5 // Free to Be … You and Me by Marlo Thomas
This is not a newbie but it sure is a goodie. No children’s reading list is complete without this classic from the 1970s. With lines that are made for singing, the message is one to inspire kids to be themselves, whatever that is. It also encourages compassion and empathy in little ones to accept everyone around them.
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