These books on raising young, smart & kind woman are not Doc-marten-wearing feminist manuals. There seems sometimes to be no happy medium. But you as a young women or teen don’t have to either be a doormat or someone who is so full of self-love that others find you narcissistic. Here are books on being smart and savvy, yet still retaining kindness (and keeping quiet, if that’s your natural nature – there’s nothing wrong with being shy!)
- Rebel Beauty for Teens i s a book to celebrate your own uniqueness. In a world of stick-thin models used to sell everything, teens are under pressure to achieve an unattainable physical perfection. This book encourages you to be happy about your own gorgeousness, regardless of age, looks or body shape. Beautifully illustrated throughout, to help develop self-esteem.
- Break the Mould encourages all of us (girls and boys) to feel we are good enough. Teacher and activist Sinéad Burke offers an inspirational handbook for young readers to believe in themselves and use their voices to make the world a fairer, more inclusive place.
- The Smart Girl’s Handbook shows how to find your talents and discover your passion, while learning to deal with failure and coping with anxiety. Build a strong group of true friends, and slay the naysayers. Each chapter follows themes from Scarlett’s own life, and there are also interviews with other ‘smart girls’.
- Quiet Girls Can Run the World refuses the notion that ‘successful women’ all have to be office bullies or loudmouths that tread on others, to reach the top. Success does not have to be 5am conference calls and late nights in the office. Or winning every argument and always getting your own way. Successful women should not just Alpha Boss or Beta Secretary. We need people with emotional intelligence, who are flexible to new ideas and adapt their plans when needed, leaving their ego on the floor. A good book for ‘girls’ of all ages!
