There are so many incredible women who have contributed to important discoveries in space and astronomy. This list features the best books for kids about women and space that readers of all ages will love!
Women have played an important role in space exploration over the years. The picture books on this list feature amazing women who are sure to inspire young girls and any other child who loves space.
Whether you’re a parent with a child who loves space and science or a teacher looking for STEM books to add to your classroom library, you don’t want to miss this list.
With books highlighting significant astronomical discoveries and space travel, this list will entertain, educate and inspire readers of all ages.
Looking for more space themed book lists? Be sure to check out 15 more space books for kids, the best middle grade space books and the best space books for young adults!
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of my links, I may earn a very small commission, at no additional cost to you.
Women and Space Books for Kids
A Computer Called Katherine by Suzanne Slade. This lovely book follows the life of Katherine Johnson, a NASA Mathematician. Her life story and work will certainly inspire young readers of all ages.
Blast Off! How Mary Sherman Morgan Fueled America into Space by Suzanne Slade. If you know a child who loves rockets then you’ll want to share this story with them. Readers learn about Mary Sherman Morgan, the world’s first female rocket scientist. It’s inspiring, educational and an all around great read that will certainly keep you engaged.
Caroline’s Comets by Emily Arnold McCully. Learn about Caroline Herschel, a female astronmer in the late 1700s in this charming picture book. Caroline Herschel discovered two galaxies, fourteen nebulae and also was the first woman to discover a comet and be paid for her work in science. Trust me, this is one you don’t want to miss!
Counting On Katherine by Helaine Becker, illustrated by Dow Phumiruk. There’s a reason why there are so many books about Katherine Johnson. I absolutely adore the illustrations and story in this one. It’s another great look at Katherine’s life story and how she got Apollo 13 back to earth, safely.
Counting the Stars by Lesa Cline-Ransome. Another fantastic picture book about the life of Katherine Johnson. This one is engaging and so entertaining. It’s a must read that’s inspirational for both adults and children!
Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly. Introduce young readers to a fantastic story if they’re too young to watch the movie. I absolutely love this picture book and highly recommend it. Readers learn about four incredible Black women who each played an important role at NASA during the race to space.
How to Hear the Universe by Patricia Valdez. If you know a kid with a curious mind, then you don’t want to miss this one. Learn about Gaby Gonzalez, a scientist who played a role in proving one of Albert Einstein’s theories! It’s also a great introduction into the world of scientific theories.
Look Up! Henrietta Leavitt, Pioneering Woman Astronomer by Robert Burleigh. This is lovely picture book about a pioneer in the science world. Learn about Henrietta Levitt, the first person to discover important information about the brightness of a star. You’ll also learn how her discovery helps our understanding of stars and the universe!
Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed. If you know someone who dreams of space then you’ll want to add this to your list immediately! Learn about Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to travel in space. While this one is a great story about space, it also inspires readers to reach for their own dreams.
Margaret and the Moon by Dean Robbins. The moon is such a fun thing to learn about for both children and adults. Learn about Margaret Hamilton, a mathematician who helped write code to solve any problems computers might have. It’s the perfect option to introduce children to the Apollo missions as well as those interested in the moon.
She Caught the Light: Williamina Stevens Fleming, Astronomer by Kathryn Lasky. This is a sweet picture book about astronomy, immigration and chasing after your dreams. Learn about Williamina Fleming, an astronomer who helped to create a map of the universe. It’s such a great book about strong women and also for women in STEM.
The Astronomer Who Questioned Everything by Laura Alary. Another great look into an accomplished woman in STEM. Learn about Maria Mitchell, a scientist in the 19th century who discovered a comet. You’ll also learn about her other scientific accomplishments. This one is a must read!
The Girl Who Named Pluto by Alice B McGinty. This one is perfect for both kids and adults who love learning about the solar system. Learn about Venetia Burney, an 11 year old girl who named Pluto in 1930. It’s such a sweet and charming picture book that readers of all ages will certainly love!
To the Stars! The First American Woman to Walk in Space by Carmella Van Vleet and Dr. Kathy Sullivan. Another great option if you’re looking to learn about women traveling to space. Learn about Kathy Sullivan, the first woman to walk in space. It’s a clever picture book that features fascinating text, illustrations as well as educational back matter!
What Miss Mitchell Saw by Hayley Barrett. With engaging text and beautiful illustrations, this is a must read. Learn about Maria Mitchell, the first professional female astronmer in the United States. You’ll also learn about the comet she discovered! It’s educational and inspiring.
Pin for Later!
[…] been reading and sharing a lot of picture books on the blog lately. With gorgeous illustrations, powerful text and meaningful storylines, picture […]