Step into the inspiring world of She Persisted, where the stories of unstoppable women ignite courage and dreams in young readers! Written by Chelsea Clinton and illustrated by Alexandra Boiger, this empowering series celebrates trailblazing women who overcame obstacles to change history. From Harriet Tubman’s daring escapes to J.K. Rowling’s literary magic, She Persisted invites kids to dream big and never give up.
Perfect for tiny feminists and budding activists, the series blends vibrant storytelling with heartfelt illustrations, making history come alive. Whether you’re flipping through picture books or diving into chapter biographies, She Persisted is a celebration of resilience that resonates with readers of all ages.
How She Persisted Began
In 2017, Chelsea Clinton launched She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World, inspired by Senator Elizabeth Warren’s refusal to be silenced during a Senate debate. The phrase 'Nevertheless, she persisted' became a feminist rallying cry, and Clinton channeled this spirit into a picture book celebrating American women who defied expectations. Teaming up with illustrator Alexandra Boiger, Clinton crafted a series that would grow into a global phenomenon, with companion books and chapter biographies written by acclaimed authors.
The series started as a way to introduce kids to diverse role models, from civil rights heroes to scientists and artists. Its success led to expansions like She Persisted Around the World and chapter books that dive deeper into individual stories, each capturing the essence of persistence in an accessible, inspiring way.
The Heart of She Persisted
The series shines through its diverse books, each spotlighting women who reshaped their fields. She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World introduces icons like Harriet Tubman, who guided enslaved people to freedom, and lesser-known figures like Clara Lemlich, a labor organizer who fought for workers’ rights. She Persisted Around the World celebrates global changemakers like Malala Yousafzai, who advocated for girls’ education, and Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize.
Chapter books like She Persisted: Claudette Colvin by Lesa Cline-Ransome and She Persisted: Sonia Sotomayor by Meg Medina offer deeper dives into individual lives, blending historical facts with emotional storytelling. Themes of courage, perseverance, and defying societal limits run through every book, encouraging kids to stand up for what’s right. Boiger’s vivid illustrations add warmth and energy, making the stories accessible to young readers while honoring the women’s legacies.
The series’ style is light yet powerful, with a conversational tone that feels like a friend sharing inspiring tales. Whether set in 19th-century America or modern-day Pakistan, the books connect readers to a universal message: persistence is power.
Why She Persisted Resonates
She Persisted has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring kids to see themselves as changemakers. Its diverse representation—featuring women of various races, eras, and abilities—makes it a powerful tool for teaching inclusion and resilience. The series has sold over 1.3 million copies in North America, earning praise from outlets like Publishers Weekly for its 'lovely, moving work of children’s literature.'
By turning historical figures into relatable heroes, She Persisted empowers young readers to chase their dreams despite obstacles. Its lasting appeal lies in its ability to spark conversations about equality and courage, making it a staple in classrooms and homes alike.
- Publication Years: 2017–present
- Number of Books: Over 20, including picture books and chapter biographies
- Awards: Featured in bestseller lists like The New York Times
Grab She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World and dive into a world of courage and inspiration! Whether you’re a young reader or a parent, this series will light a spark to persist and make a difference.