Let’s Show Our Girls That Math Is Their Story Too

March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the incredible contributions women have made throughout history. It’s also the perfect opportunity to help the girls in our lives see that they belong in the world of mathematics. Too often, girls receive the message—whether directly or indirectly—that math is not for them. But the truth is, math is for everyone. We can help girls see themselves as capable, confident problem solvers who can thrive in math by sharing the stories of women mathematicians

Why Representation Matters in Math

We know that when children see people who look like them succeeding in a field, they are more likely to believe they can succeed too! This is especially important in STEM fields, where women have historically been underrepresented. Seeing real-life role models—past and present—can help girls push past self-doubt and embrace math with confidence.

One easy yet powerful way to introduce these role models is through books. Stories about female mathematicians not only highlight their achievements, but also show the perseverance, curiosity, and creativity that are essential in math. These stories remind all children—especially girls—that setbacks are part of learning and that they, too, can grow as mathematicians.

Books That Inspire Future Women Mathematicians

Here are a some great books that showcase the brilliance of women in mathematics:

• "The Girl With a Mind for Math: The Story of Raye Montague" by Julia Finley Mosca – The inspiring true story of a woman who revolutionized naval engineering.

• "Ada Lovelace, Poet of Science" by Diane Stanley – A beautifully illustrated book about the woman who wrote the first computer algorithm.

• "Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race” by Margot Lee Shetterly – The true story of the African American women mathematicians who helped NASA send astronauts to space.

• "Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World" by Rachel Ignotofsky – A visually engaging book highlighting women across STEM, including many mathematicians.

• "Nothing Stopped Sophie: The Story of Unshakable Mathematician Sophie Germain" by Cheryl Bardoe – A story about perseverance in the face of obstacles.

• "The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin" by Julia Finley Mosca – A story of an inspiring scientist who thought differently and changed the world.

• "Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13" by Helaine Becker – The story of a brilliant mathematician who helped NASA bring Apollo 13 safely home.

• "The World Is Not A Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid" by Jeanette Winter – A beautifully illustrated book about a visionary female architect and her groundbreaking work.

• "Rosie Revere, Engineer" by Andrea Beaty – A fun and inspiring story about a young girl with a passion for engineering.

• "Emmy Noether: The Most Important Mathematician You've Never Heard Of" by Helaine Becker – A book about a groundbreaking mathematician whose work changed physics and mathematics.

• "Mae Among The Stars" by Roda Ahmed – A beautifully illustrated book about Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, inspiring young readers to dream big.

  

  
  

Even More Ways Families Can Encourage a Love of Math

Beyond books, parents can support their children’s love of math in everyday ways:

• Talk about math positively. Show enthusiasm and avoid phrases like “I’m not a math person.”

• Highlight math in daily life. Cooking, shopping, and even nature walks are full of math opportunities! Check out our series on noticing math every day for inspiration!

• Encourage a growth mindset. Remind children that struggling in math doesn’t mean they’re bad at it—mistakes help us learn! Learn more in our blog post.

• Explore math activities together. Play math games, do puzzles, and explore fun math challenges.

  
  

This Women’s History Month and beyond, let’s celebrate the incredible women who have shaped the world of math—and make sure the next generation knows they belong in it too.

What are your favorite books about women in math? Share them in the comments!

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