Picture book biographies you’re sure to enjoy reading

We learn an incredible amount about our world by learning the stories of others. Reading about someone else’s journey and experiences teaches us a great deal; informing us about their contributions to society and perhaps granting us a figure to look up to. And sometimes real life is more exciting than fiction! Picture books that focus on how a person made their mark can be inspiring and entertaining at the same time, and can be a great way to introduce biographies to children from a young age. Hopefully, you will be inspired by some of the titles on this list.

‘Bessie the Motorcycle Queen’ by Charles Smith

The year is 1929 and Bessie Stringfield is on an adventure across the United States. Bessie explores the beauty of the world, and runs into some of its ugliness, as she travels to compete in races all over the country. There are more than a few times when Bessie has to make a quick exit because of the unwelcomeness of the Jim Crow era. Nevertheless, she persists and drives a new road for the sport of women’s motorcycle racing! This book speaks on topics of racism, sexism, bravery, and doing what you’re passionate about.

‘Finding My Dance’ by Ria Thundercloud

When Ria Thundercloud was four years old, she participated in her first powwow; wearing the special jingle dress her mother made for her. As she grew up, Ria loved dancing so much that she learned more styles of dance, but always loved indigenous dancing best. Follow Ria’s journey as she moves to make her dream as a professional dancer come true; becoming the first Native dancer to star as a prima ballerina in a ballet.

‘The Tower of Life’

Yaffa Eliach’s story begins when she is a young