Little Dreamers: Visionary Women Around the World
#2 of 3 in Leaders & Dreamers Series
on Goodreads (992)
What’s inside...
Little Dreamers: Visionary Women Around the World is a picture book by Vashti Harrison that showcases the stories of 30 women from different countries and cultures who have made significant impacts in various fields. Through vibrant illustrations and simple text, the book highlights the contributions of women who have broken barriers and inspired change in their communities and around the world, making the stories accessible to young readers. Additionally, the book features the true stories of 40 inspirational women creators including writers, inventors, artists, and scientists. Readers will meet influential figures such as revolutionary architect Zaha Hadid, actor/inventor Hedy Lamarr, environmental activist Wangari Maathai, modernist painter Mary Blair, and physicist Chien-Shiung Wu. These women, some familiar and some not, have all had a lasting impact on their fields.
Discussion points
Which woman from the book inspired you the most, and why?
How do the achievements of these women influence your dreams and goals?
What are some qualities that all these visionary women share?
If you could meet any woman from this book, who would it be and what would you ask her?
How do you think the world would be different if these women had not pursued their dreams?
Tip: Role play these questions
Prioritize listening; encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings inspired by the book, without interruption.
Link the stories to real-life scenarios; ask how learning about these women might change how your child views their capabilities and opportunities.
Encourage reflection by asking your child to think about the qualities they admire in the women featured and if they see any of those qualities in themselves.
Use examples from the book to teach resilience and perseverance; emphasize how challenges can lead to growth and innovation.
Promote creativity by asking your child to imagine and discuss what contributions they would like to make to the world.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empowerment through role models
Explanation: This book showcases various women who have made significant contributions in their fields, inspiring children to see what is possible when they believe in themselves.
Real-World Application: Children can aspire to achieve great things in their own lives by identifying with and learning from the achievements of these visionary women.
Example Lesson: Diversity and inclusion
Explanation: Highlighting women from various backgrounds worldwide, the book teaches that success and innovation are not confined to any single ethnicity or culture.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to appreciate and respect diversity, understanding that everyone can contribute positively regardless of their background.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the face of adversity
Explanation: The stories include details about the challenges these women faced and how they overcame them, demonstrating the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to persist and maintain their efforts despite difficulties or setbacks, applying this tenacity in their daily tasks or long-term goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of creativity and vision
Explanation: Each woman's story is a testament to thinking differently and innovatively, which led to their remarkable achievements.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to embrace their unique ideas and perspectives in problem-solving or creative projects at school or home.
Example Lesson: Value of education and learning
Explanation: The book portrays how education and continuous learning were pivotal for these women to pursue their dreams and succeed.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value their education and seek knowledge continuously, applying what they learn to reach their dreams and make a difference.