Rad American Women A-Z: Rebels, Trailblazers, and Visionaries Who Shaped Our History ... and Our Future!
#1 of 3 in Rad Women Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (3,149)
What’s inside...
A graphic novel that showcases the stories of 26 American women who have made a significant impact on history, from A to Z. Each woman's story is told through a combination of illustrations and text, highlighting their achievements and the challenges they faced. The book covers a diverse range of women, from well-known figures like Rosa Parks and Susan B. Anthony to lesser-known women like Shirley Chisholm and Mary Wong. The book also includes a timeline and additional information about each woman's life and legacy. The author's note explains the importance of sharing these stories and the impact they can have on young readers. The book's illustrations are inspired by the style of 1970s and 1980s graphic novels and are sure to engage readers of all ages.
Discussion points
Which woman from the book inspired you the most, and what qualities do you admire about her?
If you could meet any of the women featured in the book, who would it be and what would you ask her?
How do you think the challenges these women faced are similar or different from challenges people face today?
Can you think of someone in your life who reminds you of one of these trailblazers?
How can we apply the lessons from this book to our daily lives to make a positive change?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, discuss with your child any prior knowledge they have about women's history and rights, setting a contextual foundation.
Pause after each profile to give your child a moment to reflect and ask questions about what they’ve just learned.
Encourage your child to draw or write about a woman from the book, focusing on the traits that make her a role model.
Relate the struggles and achievements of these women to current events, prompting your child to make connections to the world around them.
After finishing the book, ask your child to imagine their own alphabet of inspirational figures, encouraging creative thinking and personal connection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empowerment and perseverance
Explanation: Each letter of the alphabet introduces a notable American woman who has made significant contributions to society against all odds. These stories show determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face challenges with a positive attitude and understand that they can overcome obstacles with determination.
Example Lesson: Diversity and inclusion
Explanation: The book features women from various backgrounds and fields, highlighting the importance of diversity in achieving societal progress.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to appreciate and embrace differences in others and understand the value of diverse perspectives in solving problems.
Example Lesson: Importance of role models
Explanation: By presenting real-life examples of women who have made significant impacts, the book underscores the importance of having role models to look up to.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to seek and learn from mentors in their lives, be it in academics, sports, or other areas of interest.
Example Lesson: Awareness of historical impact
Explanation: The book educates children about how actions and decisions have shaped our history, through the lives of these women.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the impact of history on our present and future, fostering a deeper appreciation for the contributions of those who came before us.
Example Lesson: Aspiration and achievement
Explanation: By showing the achievements of these women, the book inspires readers to aspire and strive for greatness in their own lives.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to set high goals and work hard to achieve them, understanding that success is possible with effort and perseverance.