Women Who Led the Way: Great Explorers and Adventurers
on Goodreads (9)
What’s inside...
The book profiles notable female explorers and adventurers from the 9th century to the present, across various countries. It highlights 33 women who broke societal and geographical boundaries to explore diverse places, peoples, and customs. Featuring figures such as Sacagawea, Mae Jemison, and Arunima Sinha, the book showcases their courage, determination, and contributions to various fields including science, nature, and journalism. These stories of personal triumphs serve as an inspiration and celebrate the power of women explorers over the last 1200 years.
Discussion points
Which explorer from the book inspired you the most and why?
How do you think these women felt as they ventured into unknown places?
What qualities do you think are important for an explorer to have?
If you could explore any place in the world, where would it be and what would you hope to discover?
How have the achievements of these women changed the way we view exploration and adventure today?
Tip: Role play these questions
To foster a deeper understanding, relate the challenges faced by the explorers to obstacles your child might face, such as trying something new or facing their fears.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the shoes of the explorers. Ask what they would pack for a journey or what they would like to discover.
Highlight the perseverance and courage displayed by the women in the book and discuss how these qualities can be applied in everyday life.
After reading, consider watching a documentary or looking at a map to further visualize the explorations discussed in the book.
Use the stories as a springboard to discuss the importance of curiosity and lifelong learning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and determination
Explanation: This book showcases the awe-inspiring stories of female explorers who broke barriers and faced immense challenges during their journeys.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of perseverance and overcoming fears when faced with challenging situations in school or while learning new skills.
Example Lesson: Understanding and appreciating diversity
Explanation: Through the explorations of different cultures and lands, the book teaches children about the broad spectrum of human experience and cultural heritage.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to interact respectfully and curiously with people from diverse backgrounds they encounter in their community.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity and lifelong learning
Explanation: The adventurers' incessant pursuit of knowledge and discovery is highlighted, displaying the joy and benefits of remaining curious.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to pursue their interests and hobbies with passion, and remain open to learning new things every day.
Example Lesson: Empathy and resilience
Explanation: The stories reflect not only physical journeys but also emotional ones, showing how these women dealt with both failure and success.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand how to handle emotions and challenges in their own lives, fostering emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Leadership and teamwork
Explanation: Many of the explorers led teams or collaborated with others throughout their adventures, underscoring the importance of working together towards common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these values in collaborative settings like group projects in school or team sports.