10 girl-power books we love for toddlers + preschoolers

6. Stand Tall Molly Lou Mellon

A horrible bully picks on Molly Lou Mellon in her first day of school, but this wise little one knows exactly what to do. Teaches girls pride in who they are.

5. What Do You Do With An Idea?

A book that teaches kids that their ideas are valuable and important. Pursuing their dreams is hard work, but if you stick with it the rewards are incredible. (We agree!)

9. Brave Irene

When a snowstorm hits and the gown Brave Irene’s sick-mother hand made for duchess needs to be delivered in time for the ball, Irene summons her courage and does it herself. A beautiful read about a girl’s ability to persevere in the fact of extreme adversity—for the good of herself and her family.

3. Rosie Revere, Engineer

A photo posted by Lush Arena (@lusharena) on Aug 23, 2016 at 4:26pm PDT

A curious inventor realizes that making mistakes and not getting everything perfect is the most important part of the journey.

8. The LadyBug Girl series

A photo posted by Charlie & Grace (@charlieandgraceboutique) on Jan 20, 2017 at 12:53pm PST

When Lulu puts on her ladybug costume, she becomes Ladybug Girl, a superhero who uses her imagination to have adventures right in her own backyard. Her dog, Bingo the basset hound, is always by her side and the two prove that they are not too little to explore nature, build forts, and make their own big fun.

Messages matter, which is why we love to read these empowering books to our daughters—and our sons. Motherly read, cherished + loved.

1. He Bear, She Bear by The Berenstain Bears

A photo posted by Loz💙 (@thereclaimedroom) on Sep 9, 2015 at 10:21pm PDT

In He Bear, She Bear, a young he bear and she bear discover they can do anything and be anything they want to—regardless of gender. Short and perfect for children of all ages.

2. The Water Princess

A photo posted by Heather + 2 Littles (@ourlibraryhaul) on Jan 20, 2017 at 1:46am PST

Inspired by the true story of African–born model Georgie Badiel, The Water Princess teaches girls about their strength, and the hope that comes when stand for their dreams.

7. Diana’s White House Garden

A photo posted by Jen Hill (@jenhillstudio) on May 3, 2016 at 7:44am PDT

From award-winning author Elisa Carbone comes the true story of how Diana Hopkins (daughter of President Roosevelt) started her own Victory Garden on the White House lawn under the tutelage of Eleanor Roosevelt. With dedication and patience, she teaches girls how to make an impact in the world starting from their very own homes.

10. Part-Time Princess

A photo posted by Mel Bouchard (@mel_bouchard3) on Dec 14, 2016 at 4:55pm PST

Girl by day, dragon-taming princess warrior by night, Part-Time Princess teaches girls that ruling your kingdom is about fighting fires, taming trolls and having confidence in your ability to reign.

4. The Paper Bag Princess

A photo posted by Danielle Defleming (@danielledefleming) on Jan 16, 2017 at 7:04am PST

This book, The Paper Bag Princess, is a story about a courageous princess who learns that she is definitely not the one who needs rescuing.