Books about empowerment

Set in the atmospheric streets of 17th-century Rome, Everything Is Poison is a gripping historical novel that blends prose and verse to tell the story of Carmela Tofana. At sixteen, Carmela is finally allowed into her mother’s apothecary, only to discover that the family business involves more than just healing herbs. She learns of Aqua Tofana, a lethal remedy for women trapped in dangerous marriages. This evocative story explores the thin line between medicine and poison, and the lengths women will go to protect one another in a world that offers them little power.

Perfect for fans of Blood Water Paint and The Lost Apothecary, this book is an ideal choice for readers interested in feminist history, Renaissance Italy, and stories told through unique formats like verse. Parents will appreciate the complex moral questions it raises about justice and survival. It is a great choice for young adults who enjoy dark, atmospheric mysteries and strong female protagonists navigating historical social issues.

Highlights:

• Unique blend of prose and verse storytelling.
• Richly detailed historical setting of 17th-century Rome.
• Powerful themes of female agency and solidarity.
• Compelling exploration of the legendary Giulia Tofana.

Lumberjanes, Vol. 1 is an electrifying start to a beloved graphic novel series that follows five best friends—Jo, April, Mal, Molly, and Ripley—during their summer at Miss Qiunzella Thiskwin Penniquiqul Thistle Crumpet's Camp for Hardcore Lady Types. This isn't your average summer camp experience; these "Lumberjane" scouts quickly find themselves battling three-eyed wolves, giant falcons, and mysterious supernatural forces. With a "friendship to the max" attitude, the girls must use their unique skills and unbreakable bond to solve a mystery that threatens the entire world.

Perfect for children who love Gravity Falls or Steven Universe, this book is an ideal choice for readers interested in fast-paced adventures, quirky humor, and strong female leads. The vibrant artwork and punk-rock energy make it a great choice for reluctant readers and graphic novel enthusiasts alike. It celebrates diversity and the power of working together, making it a must-read for middle-grade fans looking for something both magical and empowering.

Highlights:

• Features a diverse cast of five "butt-kicking" female protagonists.
• Combines summer camp nostalgia with supernatural mystery and fantasy elements.
• Promotes positive themes of loyalty, teamwork, and being true to oneself.
• Action-packed storytelling with stunning, expressive illustrations.
• Perfect for fans of mystery-solving groups and magical adventures.

Join the brave and hilarious Roanoke cabin in Lumberjanes: Stone Cold, an action-packed graphic novel perfect for children who love supernatural mysteries and strong female leads. In this installment, the five best friends—April, Jo, Mal, Molly, and Ripley—are excited to welcome their friend Barney to camp. However, their excitement quickly turns to concern when they discover the entire Zodiac cabin has been mysteriously turned to stone! With strange shadows lurking and the return of the enigmatic Diane, the Lumberjanes must use their wits and teamwork to find a cure before they fall victim to the same stony fate.

This New York Times bestselling series is an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about 'hardcore lady-types' who aren't afraid to kick some monster butt. It beautifully balances humor with heartfelt moments, exploring the power of friendship and the importance of being yourself. Whether your child is a longtime fan or new to the series, this volume offers a thrilling adventure filled with magical creatures and high-stakes problem-solving. It is a great choice for fans of Gravity Falls who enjoy diverse characters and whimsical, spooky settings.

Highlights:

• Features a diverse cast of strong, relatable female protagonists.
• Combines supernatural fantasy with a classic summer camp setting.
• Promotes themes of loyalty, inclusivity, and creative problem-solving.
• Engaging graphic novel format perfect for visual learners and reluctant readers.

My Plain Jane is a witty and whimsical reimagining of Charlotte Brontë's classic novel, Jane Eyre. In this version, Jane isn't just a penniless orphan and governess; she has the unique ability to see ghosts. When her best friend Charlotte Brontë decides to write a story about her, and a handsome ghost-hunter from the Society for the Relocation of Wayward Spirits gets involved, Jane's life at Thornfield Hall becomes far more complicated than she ever imagined. This book is perfect for children and teens who love historical settings mixed with a healthy dose of the supernatural and laugh-out-loud comedy.

Ideal for readers interested in clever retellings, this story balances romance, mystery, and a touch of the macabre. It is a great choice for fans of the first book in the series, My Lady Jane, or anyone who enjoys seeing classic literature turned on its head with modern sensibilities and strong female leads. Parents will appreciate the focus on friendship and finding one's own path in a world that often tries to dictate it.

Highlights:

• A hilarious and supernatural twist on a beloved literary classic.
• Features a strong, independent female protagonist who defies social norms.
• Perfect for fans of historical fiction with a magical or paranormal element.
• Engaging multi-perspective storytelling that keeps readers hooked.