Books are one of the best ways to meet and explore the lives of brilliant women scientists, inventors, astronauts, and engineers and to discover that you can be a scientist too.
The books we've shared below will inspire and remind you that science has room for everyone and anything is possible.
Ada Twist, Scientist
by Andrea Beaty
(Age 3+)
Ada is a curious young scientist who asks “why?” and is interested in everything around her. She loves investigating the world through experiments and observations. When Ada senses a horrific smell filling her home, she uses scientific thinking to test ideas and learns from mistakes. This beautiful picture book shows that questioning is what science is all about.
The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes
by Mark Pett & Gary Rubinstein
(Age 3+)
Beatrice is known for always getting everything right, but one day, she makes a big mistake. Instead of giving up, she discovers that trying new things, taking risks, and making mistakes are all part of learning. This warm, humorous story helps young children build confidence, resilience, and a healthy relationship with imperfection.
The Most Magnificent Thing
by Ashley Spires (Age 7+)
This story explores creativity, problem‑solving, and perseverance. A young inventor sets out to make something magnificent but finds the process more challenging than expected. Through frustration and determination, she discovers that great ideas often take time. This is a perfect read for budding makers and creators.
Fantastically Great Women Scientists and Their Stories
by Kate Pankhurst (Ages 7+)
This illustrated book highlights the achievements of remarkable women scientists throughout history. With lively artwork and accessible storytelling, it introduces readers to innovators who made extraordinary contributions to science and discovery. The book encourages young readers to dream big, stay curious, and see themselves as future problem‑solvers and inventors.
Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race
by Margot Lee Shetterly & Laura Freeman (Ages 7+)
This picture‑book tells the true story of four brilliant mathematicians who helped shape one of the greatest achievements in space exploration. It highlights courage, intelligence, and determination while celebrating the impact of women whose work changed history. It’s an empowering reminder that curiosity, teamwork, and resilience can lead to incredible accomplishments.
Eurek-HER! Stories of Inspirational Women in STEM
by Frances Durkin (Ages 8 +)
This engaging book is filled with 20 inspirational stories about women in STEM around the world from ancient history to modern times. You can find out how these female scientists and inventors turned their ideas and curiosity into world-changing achievements. It also includes 12 step‑by‑step activities that invite young people to try STEM experiments for themselves.
Every book on this list shows us that science isn’t just something in labs. Science is all around us, in our questions, our play, and our dreams. The women and girls featured in these books model resilience, problem-solving, and a willingness to ask questions, even when the answers aren’t easy.
By sharing these stories, we can help the young people in care see curiosity as a strength, nurture their confidence, and show them that their ideas and interests matter. Encouraging wonder today can open doors to possibility tomorrow.
