Tag Archives: women’s history month

Smithycroft Roundup – March!

The past couple of weeks have seen a planning for World Book Day and meetings with English Department to improve the service we provide to our dear readers. For World Book Day, the well-established worldwide celebration of reading for pleasure, Mr Hassett set up a spectacular book display in the centre of the library, and Ms Bortolato organised a little party in the library with bookish activities and snacks, which were enjoyed by Smithycroft’s library regulars. Over the past week, the pupils have also received their £1 book token which will allow them to get a free World Book Day Book or £1 off other books!

At the time of writing, today is also International Women’s Day, so a new display honouring this has been set up in the library. We try every month to have a non-fiction display that is informative and promotes equality and diversity – so with March being Women’s History Month, this will hopefully catch our readers’ eyes and enable young people to learn about women’s contributions and history!

Women’s History Month Book Recs

Calling all history buffs, fiction fanatics, and everyone in between! This Women’s History Month, dive into the stories of amazing women who dared to dream big, defied expectations, and left their mark on the world.

We’ve got a fantastic selection of books waiting for you — from gripping true stories of real-life history-makers, to classic novels with unforgettable heroines, and even some thrilling adventures in fictional worlds. So, whether you’re looking for inspiration, a good laugh, or a heart-pounding read, there’s a book on this list that’s perfect for you!


Non-Fiction:

Hidden Figures: The Story of the African American Women Who Helped Win the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly
This captivating book tells the true story of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson – brilliant African American mathematicians who played a crucial role in NASA’s early space missions.

Goodreads: 3.98/5 stars


I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban
by Malala Yousafzai

An inspiring memoir by Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist who advocated for female education and was shot by the Taliban for her bravery.

Goodreads: 4.15/5 stars

Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky
This beautifully illustrated book profiles 50 incredible women scientists throughout history, showcasing their groundbreaking discoveries and achievements in various scientific fields.
Goodreads: 4.45/5 stars


Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Tales of Extraordinary Women
by Elena Favilli, Francesca Cavallo

This gorgeous, illustrated book features 100 bedtime stories about remarkable women from history, covering a wide range of fields and backgrounds.
Goodreads: 4.32/5 stars

 


Fiction:

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
A timeless coming-of-age story that follows the March sisters during the American Civil War. The novel explores themes of family, independence, and finding your own path in life. The library also has super readable and graphic novel versions!

Goodreads: 4.15/5 stars

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
This gothic classic follows the journey of Jane Eyre, an independent and strong-willed young woman who overcomes a harsh childhood in an orphanage to become a governess at a mysterious manor. As she navigates the complexities of love, class, and societal expectations, Jane’s intelligence and unwavering spirit shine through. This timeless novel explores themes of self-discovery, social justice, and the power of love.
Goodreads: 4.15/5 stars (Librarian: 11/10 🔥)

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
This dystopian young adult novel series follows Katniss Everdeen, a young woman who volunteers to take her younger sister’s place in a deadly televised competition. The series explores themes of courage, survival, and fighting for what you believe in.

Goodreads: 4.34/5 stars


Persepolis
by Marjane Satrapi

A graphic novel memoir by Marjane Satrapi that chronicles her childhood growing up in Iran during the Islamic Revolution. It’s a powerful and moving story about family, resilience, and the importance of finding your voice.
Goodreads: 4.26/5 stars

Dread Nation by Justina Ireland
Set in an alternate post-Civil War America overrun by zombies, this gripping novel follows Jane McKeen, a young woman attending a prestigious military academy who must fight for survival using her knowledge and skills. And if you love this one, we have the sequel as well!

Goodreads: 4.14/5 stars


Clap When You Land
by Elizabeth Acevedo

This powerful novel tells the story of two young women from different backgrounds whose lives become intertwined after a plane crash. It’s a story about resilience, sisterhood, and finding strength in unexpected places.
Goodread: 4.24/5 stars

 


Happy reading!