She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World
She Persisted Series
What’s inside...
Chelsea Clinton's book 'She Persisted' introduces young readers to thirteen inspirational American women who have made significant contributions to history through their persistence and tenacity. The book features women like Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, and Oprah Winfrey, who faced obstacles but never gave up on their dreams. With vivid illustrations by Alexandra Boiger, the book encourages children, especially girls, to persist in the face of challenges and to believe in the power of their own voices. Throughout American history, there have always been women who have spoken out for what’s right, even when they have to fight to be heard. In early 2017, Senator Elizabeth Warren’s refusal to be silenced in the Senate inspired a spontaneous celebration of women who persevered in the face of adversity. In this book, Chelsea Clinton celebrates thirteen American women who helped shape our country through their tenacity, sometimes through speaking out, sometimes by staying seated, sometimes by captivating an audience. They all certainly persisted. 'She Persisted' is for everyone who has ever wanted to speak up but has been told to quiet down, for everyone who has ever tried to reach for the stars but was told to sit down, and for everyone who has ever been made to feel unworthy or unimportant or small. With vivid, compelling art by Alexandra Boiger, this book shows readers that no matter what obstacles may be in their paths, they shouldn’t give up on their dreams. Persistence is power. This book features: Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, Clara Lemlich, Nellie Bly, Maria Tallchief, Claudette Colvin, Ruby Bridges, Margaret Chase Smith, Sally Ride, Florence Griffith Joyner, Oprah Winfrey, Sonia Sotomayor—and one special cameo.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What challenges did these women face, and how did they overcome them?
Which woman in the book do you admire the most and why?
How can you use their stories to inspire changes you want to see in your own community?
What qualities do all these women share that helped them persist despite difficulties?
How do you think the world would be different if these women hadn’t persisted?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the stories in the book and their own experiences.
Use each woman’s story as a separate discussion point to delve deeper into her specific challenges and triumphs.
Discuss the historical context of each woman’s achievements to give your child a broader understanding of their impact.
Highlight the diversity of fields these women excelled in, reinforcing the idea that persistence is vital in any area of interest.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The book profiles 13 influential women who faced significant challenges but persisted. Each story showcases how setbacks can be overcome with determination.
Real-World Application: Children learn that difficulties are a part of life and can be tackled through perseverance. They can apply this mindset at school when dealing with tough subjects or social situations.
Example Lesson: Inspiring Change
Explanation: Each woman in the book made impactful changes in various fields, demonstrating that one person's actions can influence society.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to believe in their ability to make a difference, whether it's in small community projects or family decisions.
Example Lesson: Equality and Justice
Explanation: The stories highlight the fight for women's rights and social justice. They emphasize the importance of equality and standing up against injustices.
Real-World Application: Children learn the values of fairness and justice. They can practice inclusivity and equality with peers, promoting a healthier, more respectful environment.
Example Lesson: Self-Belief
Explanation: The women featured in the book believed in their abilities, which fueled their successes despite societal constraints.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of self-confidence and trusting their capabilities, encouraging them to take on new challenges without fear of failure.
