There’s something powerful about stories that show girls being curious, determined, thoughtful and just totally themselves. Whether it’s through adventure, humour or quiet acts of bravery, books can help girls see what’s possible for them. They can also help them feel less alone.
We’re often asked which books we’d recommend for girls aged 8 to 11, so here’s a list of 10 books to inspire your fearless girls! Some are newer, some are already classics, and all of them feature strong, complex girls at the heart of the story.
Just a side note: these are personal picks. We’re not affiliated with any publishers or authors, and this isn’t an ad. Just two book-loving founders sharing what we’ve seen spark something in girls.
1. A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll
Addie, an autistic girl in a small Scottish town, campaigns for a memorial to women persecuted as witches. She’s thoughtful, brave and full of determination. A beautifully told story about finding your voice.
2. Lottie Brooks series by Katie Kirby
We can’t pick just one book in this series so we’re recommending them all! Lottie’s figuring out life one awkward moment at a time, from friendship wobbles to accidental moustaches. These books are hilarious and spot-on for the tween years, with just the right mix of humour and heart. And they’re written by the same person behind Hurrah For Gin (if you know, you know!).
3. Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls by Elena Favilli & Francesca Cavallo
Short, illustrated biographies of real women from all over the world – past and present. Perfect for dipping into at bedtime or sharing together. Inspiring, diverse and a great reminder that there’s no one way to be fearless.
4. The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf
Yes, the title mentions a boy, but the narrator is a girl – warm, funny and utterly determined to help her new classmate, a Syrian refugee. This one encourages empathy, compassion and taking action when something feels unfair. A brilliant, perspective-shifting story.
5. Hetty Feather by Jacqueline Wilson
A determined girl with a wild imagination, raised in a Victorian foundling hospital and on a mission to find her birth mother. Hetty doesn’t always get it right but she never gives up.
6. The Wild Way Home by Sophie Kirtley
When Charlie finds himself back in the Stone Age, he has to face fears he didn’t even know he had. A gripping time-slip adventure with real emotional depth.
7. Vi Spy: Licence to Chill by Maz Evans
Vi’s mum is a spy. Her dad’s a villain. Vi is just trying to survive school and save the world. Full of action and laugh-out-loud moments, with a strong female lead who’s full of guts and heart.
8. The Amazing Edie Eckhart by Rosie Jones
Edie is navigating secondary school, drama club and having cerebral palsy, all with warmth and humour. A fantastic book about being different and proud of it, by comedian Rosie Jones.
9. Planet Omar: Accidental Trouble Magnet by Zanib Mian
While Omar is the main character, his sister Maryam is sharp, sassy and full of quiet strength. These books are funny, accessible and great for opening up conversations about family and identity.
10. Sky Dancer by Gill Lewis
A moving and atmospheric story set in the moorlands of northern England. When Sky learns about the destruction of local wildlife, she takes a stand, learning the power of speaking up, even when it’s hard.
If you’ve got any other favourites at home, we’d love to hear them. Our list is always growing!
