Feminist Architecture Books for Kids
Architecture shapes the world we live in, and it’s important for kids to see that anyone, regardless of gender, can play a role in designing the spaces around them. Feminist architecture isn’t just about buildings, it’s about representation, accessibility, and designing for everyone.
Introducing kids to architecture through a feminist lens helps them see that cities, homes, and public spaces should be designed with different perspectives in mind. These books we’ve rounded up will introduce kids to trailblazing female architects and stories of creativity.
Board Books for the Youngest Readers
Maybe I'll be an Architect by Tenille Bettenhausen
This is a book about all the different career paths open to us. Not just a book about becoming an architect and exploring careers in STEM, it teaches us about the diversity of possible careers available in our world.
Little Genius Architecture by Joe Rhatigan
A first architecture book for littles! We especially love the diverse cast of people in this board book.
Trailblazer: A Girl Power Primer by Joan Holub
Learn all about influential women who changed history in this colorful board book perfect for trailblazers-in-training!
One House by Sarah MacNeill
This rhyming board book shows animals of all kinds building a home for their friend.
Think Big, Little One by Vashti Harrison
A board book for little ones featuring 18 pioneering woman from around the world, including our favourite architect Zaha Hadid.
Picture Books for Kids
The World Is Not a Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid by Jeanette Winter
This beautifully illustrated biography introduces kids to Zaha Hadid, an important architect known for her bold designs. The book highlights her journey from childhood in Iraq to becoming one of the most influential architects in the world.
The House That She Built by Mollie Elkman
One by one, this book shows us exactly who builds a home. From the architect that builds the plans, to the plumber who connects all the pipes. The House that She Built was Inspired by the team of real women who came together from around the country to build a one-of-a-kind home.
Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty
Follow Rosie and her incredible imagination as she builds a contraption to let her aunt’s dream of flying come true. Not only do we learn about creativity through inventing, we also learn about failure and how you only fail when you decide to quit.
Maya Lin: Artist-Architect of Light and Lines by Jeanne Walker Harvey
Another biography, this time about Maya Lin, who loved to study the spaces around her. She was the designer behind the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, showcasing her creativity and perseverance in architecture.
The Start of Something Big by Annahita de la Mare
Not a traditional architecture story, but a story of a group of girls who show us how to be brave, to be open to new experiences, and to persevere when things don’t go to plan.
Novels for Kids (ages 8-12)
Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky
Although this book isn’t only about architecture, it features women who have shaped our world, including architects and engineers. It’s a fantastic introduction to historical and modern figures who have paved the way for more inclusive design.
Women of Steel and Stone: 22 Inspirational Architects, Engineers, and Landscape Designers by Anna M. Lewis
This book shares the inspiring stories of 22 women who broke barriers. With historical research and firsthand interviews, this book encourages young readers to pursue their passions in architecture and design.
Girls Think of Everything: Stories of Ingenious Inventions by Women by Catherine Thimmesh
Women have invented ingenious innovations that have made our lives simpler and better. This book goes over what inspired these women and how did they make their invention reality.
Do you have a favorite book about architecture or design for kids? Let us know!
