Hi there! I’m Sharon, the author behind the Hey Smart Girl series. As someone deeply passionate about inspiring girls in STEM, I believe science does more than teach facts—it builds confidence, curiosity, and resilience (Explore all my books on Amazon ). In a world rapidly evolving with technology (and AI!), it’s more important than ever that young girls feel empowered—not intimidated—by scientific advancement.
That’s why I created Hey Smart Girl: to make science fun, engaging, and accessible—not just for the straight A students, but for every girl who wonders “Can I do this?” and deserves an enthusiastic “Yes, you can!”
Research clearly supports this mission: girls who engage with STEM literature and hands-on experiments gain not only knowledge, but self-belief and grit. You can read more in our previous post “STEM & Science Benefits for Girls”.
A great way of inspiring young minds is through books and storytelling. If you want your girl to take an interest in science and develop a growth mindset these books would make a great first step (or if you already have a STEM girl in your house she too will love these titles). These 10 diverse STEM books encourage girls to dream big, think critically, and explore their world—from real-life role models to fictional heroines—and one book series that brings science to life with growth mindset built in.
1. Hey Smart Girl Series
More than just science books—this series includes hands-on experiments, trivia, and growth-mindset prompts designed specifically for girls ages 8–12. The books teach real physics concepts, offer a workbook section, and celebrate effort and curiosity. It’s science made warm, smart, and inviting.
(Find out more here. )“As the dad of a 9‑year‑old, I can honestly say — this book is an absolute hit! Full of experiments, fun, and motivation, it shows my daughter that science isn’t just about numbers — it’s a real adventure.”
2. A Wrinkle in Time – Madeleine L’Engle (1962)
A timeless science-fantasy adventure where Meg Murry uses courage, logic, and imagination to battle dark forces across the universe. This story remains a favorite among girls who see themselves solving problems with brainpower—and heart.
“This classic has inspired real-life women scientists who say it showed them a world where girls could be heroes through curiosity and smarts.” — The New Yorker
3. Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls – Elena Favilli & Francesca Cavallo
Featuring 100 real-life stories of extraordinary women, many in STEM—this beautifully illustrated book shows that brilliance and bravery come in many faces. Reading it builds resilience and optimism, one bedtime story at a time.
“Reviewers rave it’s ‘groundbreaking and breathtaking,’ ideal for sparking hope and resilience.” — The Guardian
4. Almost Astronauts: 13 Women Who Dared to Dream – Tanya Lee Stone
A nonfiction story of the Mercury 13—female pilots who trained to go into space before NASA officially accepted them. A powerful reminder that determination and grit can push through the toughest barriers.
5. Girls Think of Everything – Catherine Thimmesh
A celebration of everyday inventors—women who changed the world with creative, problem-solving ideas born out of daily life. These stories show that innovation doesn’t always need a lab—it starts with a question.
6. Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World – Rachel Ignotofsky
Vividly illustrated profiles of diverse women across scientific fields—astronomers, botanists, engineers—and inspiring facts that remind readers science is built on curiosity, diversity, and courage.
7. Space Chasers – Leland Melvin
A bold graphic novel by a former astronaut and NFL player. With a mix of real-space mission detail and animated storytelling, it’s ideal for tweens who love comics, space, and real-life hero stories.
8. Sophie Simon Solves Them All – Lisa Graff
Sophie uses math and logic to solve neighborhood mysteries in this fun junior novel. A light-hearted reminder that logic, patience, and persistence can crack any puzzle.
9. Parker Bell and the Science of Friendship – Cynthia Platt
Parker experiments with science and social chemistry as she makes friends in middle school. It’s a sweet blend of logic, empathy, and emotional intelligence in STEM form.
10. Ruby Goldberg’s Bright Idea – Anna Humphrey
Based on Rube Goldberg machines, this creative story lets Ruby and her friends engineer whimsical contraptions, demonstrating perseverance, team-building, and imagination in action.
11. Weird Little Robots – Carolyn Crimi
A quirky, fictional collection of robots with big personalities. It blends STEM concepts with warmth and humor—perfect for imaginative readers who love robotics and empathy together.
Why These Books Matter
- They cover multiple formats—biography, fiction, graphic, puzzle-driven, and classic fantasy—so every reader will find something that resonates.
- They highlight creativity, curiosity, grit, and scientific thinking—all key aspects of growth mindset and empowerment.
- They offer diverse role models—both real and fictional—showing powerful alternatives to stereotypes.
By including the Hey Smart Girl series among them, you give your tween not just inspiration—but participation with experiments, quizzes, and growth prompts she can use right at home to build confidence.
(Explore all my books on Amazon )Where to Find Them
- All can be found on Amazon, your favorite bookshop, or your local library.
- Your *Hey Smart Girl* books make perfect gifts for back-to-school, birthdays, or encouraging confident curious messengers at home.
Let these books spark your daughter’s imagination, curiosity, and STEM confidence this year!
