Rebel Girls Rock: 25 Tales of Women in Music
Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls Series
on Goodreads (107)
What’s inside...
Rebel Girls Rock: 25 Tales of Women in Music is a collection of 25 stories about women who have made significant contributions to the music industry, from pioneers like Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Dolly Parton to contemporary artists like Beyoncé and St. Vincent. The book highlights the struggles and triumphs of these women, who have broken down barriers and challenged the status quo in the male-dominated music industry. Each story is written in an engaging and accessible style, making it an inspiring read for music lovers of all ages. The book also includes interludes that provide context and background information on the history of women in music, as well as playlists that feature the artists profiled in the book. 'Rebel Girls Rock' is a celebration of the power and diversity of women in music, and a reminder that anyone can be a rebel with a dream and a passion for music.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
68 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Which female musician in the book did you find most inspiring and why?
How do these stories show the importance of perseverance and following your dreams?
What kinds of obstacles did these women face, and how did they overcome them?
If you could meet any of the musicians from the book, who would it be and what would you ask them?
How do you think the music world would be different if there were more women musicians?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on each story, affirming their opinions and feelings. Discuss the historical impact each musician had and relate it to any of today’s music they enjoy. Share stories of your favorite musicians and draw comparisons or contrasts. Lastly, promote creative expression by suggesting your child write a song, poem, or draw a picture inspired by their favorite story from the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance pays off
Explanation: The stories in 'Rebel Girls Rock' depict female musicians who faced numerous challenges but never gave up on their dreams. This narrative consistently showcases the value of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by continuing to practice a musical instrument or any other skill, even when it becomes difficult, to achieve their goals.
Example Lesson: Embrace uniqueness
Explanation: This book celebrates the unique qualities and styles of different women in music, highlighting how their distinctiveness contributed to their success.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to embrace what makes them different, using their unique traits to stand out in school projects, friendships, or hobbies.
Example Lesson: Importance of creativity
Explanation: Each story highlights how these musicians used creativity to write songs, solve problems, and express themselves, showing creativity as a valuable skill.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to use their creativity to come up with innovative solutions to challenges or to express themselves through art, writing, or play.
Example Lesson: Gender equality
Explanation: The book showcases women who succeeded in a traditionally male-dominated industry, thereby promoting the message of gender equality.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to treat everyone equally regardless of gender and to believe in their abilities to succeed in any field they choose.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: Several tales illustrate successful collaborations between women in music, emphasizing the importance and benefits of working together.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperating with others in school projects or team sports, understanding that combined efforts often lead to greater success.