20 best books on raising girls – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’re a parent, guardian, or mentor of a young girl, you know the unique challenges and joys that come with raising her. To navigate this journey with confidence and wisdom, it’s essential to arm yourself with knowledge and guidance. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about raising girls. From insightful parenting advice to empowering stories, these books offer valuable insights and practical tips for nurturing and empowering the young girls in your life. Dive into this collection of raising girls books and embark on a transformative reading experience.


Contents

Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood

by Lisa Damour

Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood by Lisa Damour is a captivating and insightful book about navigating the tumultuous journey of raising young women. This empowering guide offers parents, educators, and caregivers a roadmap to understand and support teenage girls through the seven crucial transitions they experience on their path to adulthood.

The Gutsy Girl: Escapades for Your Life of Epic Adventure

by Caroline Paul

Introducing The Gutsy Girl: Escapades for Your Life of Epic Adventure by Caroline Paul, a thrilling and empowering book on raising girls. If you’re looking for a captivating book about raising girls that will inspire courage and confidence in your young adventurers, then look no further.

Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters: 10 Secrets Every Father Should Know

by Meg Meeker

Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters is a powerful and enlightening book about the art of raising girls. Written by renowned pediatrician and parenting expert, Meg Meeker, this book is a must-read for all fathers who want to understand and navigate the unique challenges that come with raising daughters.

In this insightful guide, Meeker shares her invaluable advice and wisdom, providing fathers with ten secrets that will help them become the best possible role models and mentors for their daughters. Through personal stories and practical examples, Meeker explores various topics, from the importance of being present in your daughter’s life to setting boundaries, building self-esteem, and fostering a healthy body image.

Unlike any other book on raising girls, Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters delves into the deep emotional and psychological aspects of father-daughter relationships. Meeker emphasizes the vital role that fathers play in shaping their daughters’ lives, and how their involvement can have a profound impact on their daughters’ self-worth, future relationships, and overall success.

With its engaging storytelling and relatable anecdotes, this book is not just a manual on raising girls, but a heartfelt plea for fathers to be actively involved in their daughters’ lives. Meeker’s writing is filled with compassion, empathy, and a deep understanding of the intricacies of father-daughter dynamics.

Whether you are a new father or have been raising daughters for years, Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters is a book that will undoubtedly inspire and empower you. It is a guidebook for fathers who want to raise confident, resilient, and successful daughters, and ultimately, create a lasting bond that will withstand the test of time.

The Wonder of Girls: Understanding the Hidden Nature of Our Daughters

by Michael Gurian

The Wonder of Girls is a captivating book on raising girls that delves deep into the hidden nature of our daughters. Written by Michael Gurian, this insightful book about raising girls offers a fresh perspective on understanding the complexities and nuances of female development.

Gurian, renowned for his expertise in gender studies, presents a thought-provoking exploration of the unique challenges and joys that come with raising girls. Through a blend of scientific research, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, he provides parents, educators, and caregivers with invaluable insights into the inner world of girls.

This raising girls book sheds light on the biological, psychological, and social factors that shape girls’ development from infancy to adolescence. Gurian emphasizes the importance of nurturing girls’ innate strengths, fostering emotional intelligence, and supporting their individuality. He also addresses common concerns such as body image, peer pressure, and academic achievement.

With its engaging writing style and evidence-based approach, The Wonder of Girls is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to understand and support the growth of the young women in their lives. Whether you are a parent, teacher, or mentor, this book about raising girls will empower you to create an environment that nurtures their full potential.

Reviving Ophelia: Saving the Selves of Adolescent Girls

by Mary Pipher

Reviving Ophelia: Saving the Selves of Adolescent Girls by Mary Pipher is an extraordinary book on nurturing and empowering young women. Pipher, a renowned psychologist, dives deep into the complex world of adolescent girls, revealing the challenges they face in our society and providing invaluable insights for parents, educators, and anyone concerned with the well-being of young girls.

The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls

by Valorie Schaefer

The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls by Valorie Schaefer is an incredible resource for parents looking for a comprehensive book on raising girls. This book about raising girls is like a loving and knowledgeable friend, guiding young girls through the changes and challenges of growing up.

With its friendly and approachable tone, The Care and Keeping of You provides essential information on topics that are crucial for girls to understand. From puberty and periods to hygiene and healthy habits, this raising girls book covers it all. The author tackles these sensitive subjects with grace and compassion, making it easier for both parents and girls to navigate this important stage of life.

What sets this book apart is its emphasis on self-esteem and body positivity. Valorie Schaefer encourages girls to love and embrace their bodies, promoting a healthy relationship with oneself. This book about raising girls helps girls develop a positive self-image and teaches them to appreciate their uniqueness.

Not only does The Care and Keeping of You provide valuable information, but it also offers practical tips and advice. From choosing the right bra to dealing with acne, Schaefer offers practical solutions to common issues that young girls may face. The book also includes interactive activities and journal prompts, making it an engaging and interactive experience for young readers.

In summary, The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls is a must-read book on raising girls. It combines essential information, body positivity, and practical advice to help girls navigate the challenges of growing up. Whether you’re a parent or a young girl seeking guidance, this raising girls book will be your trusted companion on the journey to self-discovery and empowerment.

Queen Bees and Wannabes: Helping Your Daughter Survive Cliques, Gossip, Boyfriends, and the New Realities of Girl World

by Rosalind Wiseman

Queen Bees and Wannabes is a must-read book for parents who want to navigate the complex world of raising girls. Written by Rosalind Wiseman, this insightful guide offers practical advice on how to help your daughter survive the ups and downs of cliques, gossip, boyfriends, and the new realities of girl world.

Wiseman explores the intricate social dynamics that exist among girls, shedding light on the often unspoken rules and hierarchies that govern their interactions. Drawing from her own experiences as a teacher and counselor, as well as interviews with hundreds of girls, she provides valuable insights into the inner workings of girl culture.

The book covers a wide range of topics, including the impact of social media, the challenges of navigating friendships, dealing with bullying, and understanding the complexities of romantic relationships. Wiseman offers practical strategies and communication techniques that parents can use to support their daughters and help them navigate these tricky situations.

What sets Queen Bees and Wannabes apart is its focus on empowering girls to find their own voice and navigate girl world with confidence. Wiseman encourages parents to engage in open and honest conversations with their daughters, teaching them to set boundaries, assert themselves, and develop healthy relationships.

Whether you are a parent, guardian, or educator, this book is a valuable resource for anyone involved in the lives of girls. With its engaging writing style and practical advice, Queen Bees and Wannabes is a go-to guide for understanding and raising girls in today’s world.

Girls & Sex: Navigating the Complicated New Landscape

by Peggy Orenstein

Girls & Sex: Navigating the Complicated New Landscape by Peggy Orenstein is an eye-opening book that delves deep into the complex world of female sexuality. This thought-provoking book offers a fresh perspective on the challenges and pressures that young girls face today when it comes to relationships, self-image, and intimacy.

Written in a compelling and engaging style, Girls & Sex is not your typical book about raising girls. Orenstein takes a candid approach as she explores the impact of technology, social media, and pornography on girls’ perceptions of themselves and their bodies. She tackles subjects such as consent, virginity, and the importance of communication in a way that is both informative and insightful.

With a wealth of research and personal interviews, Orenstein presents a comprehensive view of the current landscape for adolescent girls. She challenges traditional notions of femininity and encourages parents, educators, and society as a whole to critically examine the messages we send to young girls about sex and relationships.

This book on raising girls is not just for parents or caregivers; it is a must-read for anyone who wants to better understand the complex challenges faced by girls today. Orenstein’s writing is honest, thought-provoking, and empowering, making Girls & Sex: Navigating the Complicated New Landscape a book that will resonate with readers long after they have finished it.

The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind

by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson

The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind is an insightful and groundbreaking book on raising girls that provides parents with practical tools and strategies for understanding and nurturing their child’s developing brain.

Written by renowned neuropsychiatrist Daniel J. Siegel and parenting expert Tina Payne Bryson, this book about raising girls offers a fresh and science-backed approach to parenting that combines the latest research in neuroscience with real-life examples and practical advice.

Using relatable stories and easy-to-understand language, the authors explain how the different parts of the brain work together and how parents can use this knowledge to help their children thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. They introduce twelve key strategies that parents can incorporate into their daily interactions with their children to promote healthy brain development and enhance their child’s overall well-being.

These strategies include teaching children about their brain and emotions, helping them to integrate their left and right brain hemispheres, and guiding them in developing resilience and empathy. The authors also provide valuable insights into common challenges parents face, such as tantrums, sibling rivalry, and bedtime struggles, and offer practical solutions rooted in brain science.

What sets this raising girls book apart is its emphasis on teaching parents how to cultivate a whole-brain approach to parenting, which involves integrating the various parts of the brain and fostering connection and communication. By understanding how the brain works and applying the strategies outlined in this book, parents can create a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes healthy brain development and helps their children build essential life skills.

Whether you’re a new parent or have years of experience, The Whole-Brain Child is a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of their child’s brain and enhance their parenting skills. With its engaging style and practical advice, this book offers a valuable roadmap for raising emotionally resilient, empathetic, and well-adjusted girls.

Parenting a Teen Girl: A Crash Course on Conflict, Communication, and Connection with Your Teenage Daughter

by Lucie Hemmen

Parenting a Teen Girl: A Crash Course on Conflict, Communication, and Connection with Your Teenage Daughter by Lucie Hemmen is a must-read for any parent navigating the turbulent teenage years with their daughter. This insightful book on raising girls provides practical advice, effective strategies, and essential tools to help parents build a strong connection with their teenage daughters.

With a refreshing and engaging writing style, Hemmen delves into the complexities of the parent-teen girl relationship, offering valuable insights into the unique challenges that arise during this transformative stage of life. The author explores a wide range of topics, including communication breakdowns, conflicts, body image issues, peer pressure, technology usage, and emotional well-being.

What sets this book about raising girls apart is its emphasis on fostering a healthy and open line of communication between parents and their teenage daughters. Hemmen provides readers with practical tips on active listening, effective questioning techniques, and non-judgmental responses that will help parents better understand their daughters’ thoughts, feelings, and concerns.

The author also offers guidance on navigating conflicts with teenage girls, encouraging parents to approach these situations with empathy and understanding. Hemmen provides helpful strategies for de-escalating conflicts, setting boundaries, and finding common ground, ensuring that both parents and daughters feel heard and respected.

Raising girls can be challenging, but Hemmen reminds parents that it is also an opportunity for growth and connection. This book on raising girls encourages parents to embrace their role as mentors and guides, helping their teenage daughters navigate the complexities of adolescence while fostering their independence and self-confidence.

Overall, Parenting a Teen Girl: A Crash Course on Conflict, Communication, and Connection with Your Teenage Daughter is a valuable resource for parents seeking to strengthen their relationship with their teenage daughters. With its practical advice, relatable anecdotes, and compassionate approach, this raising girls book is a must-have guide for any parent embarking on the journey of raising a teenage girl.

The Curse of the Good Girl: Raising Authentic Girls with Courage and Confidence

by Rachel Simmons

The Curse of the Good Girl: Raising Authentic Girls with Courage and Confidence by Rachel Simmons is an empowering book about nurturing girls to become their authentic selves. In this insightful and thought-provoking book on raising girls, Simmons challenges the pressures and expectations placed on girls to conform to societal norms. She explores the notion of the “good girl” and how it can limit girls’ potential and hinder their development of self-esteem and self-expression.

Simmons encourages parents, educators, and mentors to embrace vulnerability, imperfection, and assertiveness in girls, fostering a culture that values their unique voices and aspirations. Drawing from her extensive research and personal experiences, she provides practical strategies and tools to help girls navigate through challenges, communicate effectively, set boundaries, and develop resilience.

This book about raising girls is a refreshing and much-needed resource for anyone who wants to support girls in becoming confident and courageous individuals. Simmons’s engaging writing style and relatable anecdotes make this book a compelling and enlightening read. Whether you are a parent, teacher, or mentor, this raising girls book will inspire you to challenge harmful stereotypes and empower girls to embrace their authenticity.

Girls on the Edge: The Four Factors Driving the New Crisis for Girls

by Leonard Sax

Girls on the Edge: The Four Factors Driving the New Crisis for Girls is a thought-provoking book on raising girls that dives deep into the challenges faced by young girls in today’s society. Written by Leonard Sax, this compelling book about raising girls sheds light on the four key factors that are driving a crisis among girls.

Sax explores the impact of social media, the decline of meaningful relationships, the increasing levels of stress and anxiety, and the rise of gender ambiguity on girls’ mental and emotional well-being. He presents a wealth of research, personal anecdotes, and expert insights to paint a vivid picture of the obstacles that girls encounter as they navigate adolescence.

With a captivating narrative style, Sax offers practical advice and strategies for parents, educators, and policymakers to help address these challenges. He emphasizes the importance of fostering strong connections, promoting healthy boundaries, and providing girls with the tools to navigate the complex world around them.

In this eye-opening raising girls book, Sax provides a fresh perspective on the unique struggles faced by girls today. He empowers readers to take action and make a positive difference in the lives of the young girls in their communities. Girls on the Edge is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand and support the next generation of girls as they navigate the ever-changing landscape of adolescence.

The Girl with the Brown Crayon: How Children Use Stories to Shape Their Lives

by Vivian Gussin Paley

The Girl with the Brown Crayon: How Children Use Stories to Shape Their Lives by Vivian Gussin Paley is a captivating book about nurturing young girls into confident and empowered individuals. This insightful book on raising girls explores the power of storytelling as a means for girls to express their thoughts, dreams, and fears.

The Drama Years: Real Girls Talk About Surviving Middle School — Bullies, Brands, Body Image, and More

by Haley Kilpatrick

The Drama Years: Real Girls Talk About Surviving Middle School is a captivating book on raising girls, written by Haley Kilpatrick. This insightful read delves into the challenges that young girls face during their middle school years, covering topics such as bullies, brands, body image, and more.

With relatable anecdotes and genuine conversations with real girls, Kilpatrick offers an honest and empathetic perspective on the struggles that girls encounter as they navigate the complexities of adolescence. This book about raising girls provides valuable advice and guidance for parents, educators, and anyone involved in the lives of young girls.

The Drama Years is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand and support girls during this crucial stage of their lives. Kilpatrick’s engaging storytelling and practical insights make this raising girls book an invaluable resource for empowering and guiding the next generation of young women.

The Confident Girl: How to Build Confidence, Courage, and Compassion in Your Daughter

by Susie Shellenberger

The Confident Girl is an empowering book about raising girls, written by the incredible Susie Shellenberger. This must-read guide provides parents with valuable insights and practical advice on how to build confidence, courage, and compassion in their daughters. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or new to the world of raising girls, this book offers a wealth of wisdom and strategies to help your daughter navigate the challenges of growing up.

The New Puberty: How to Navigate Early Development in Today’s Girls

by Louise Greenspan and Julianna Deardorff

The New Puberty: How to Navigate Early Development in Today’s Girls is a groundbreaking book on raising girls that offers parents and caregivers invaluable insights into the challenges and complexities of early development in girls.

Written by Louise Greenspan, a pediatric endocrinologist, and Julianna Deardorff, a researcher in adolescent health, this book about raising girls sheds light on the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that girls experience during puberty in the modern world.

With the onset of puberty occurring at earlier ages than ever before, it is crucial for parents to be equipped with the knowledge and tools to navigate this transformative stage. The New Puberty provides a comprehensive and compassionate guide, highlighting the factors that contribute to early puberty and the potential impact it can have on girls’ health and well-being.

Through a combination of scientific research, real-life stories, and practical advice, Greenspan and Deardorff explore the various influences that can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones, such as environmental toxins, stress, and lifestyle choices. They also address the societal pressures and media messages that can shape girls’ self-esteem and body image, and offer strategies for fostering resilience and positive body image.

This raising girls book is not just an informative resource, but also an empowering call to action. It encourages parents and caregivers to engage in open and honest conversations with their daughters about puberty, sexuality, and overall well-being. The authors emphasize the importance of building strong support networks and seeking professional help when needed.

Overall, The New Puberty is a must-read for anyone involved in raising or caring for girls in today’s world. It equips parents and caregivers with the knowledge and tools to navigate the challenges of early development, fostering a healthy, confident, and resilient generation of girls.

The Girl’s Guide: Getting the Hang of Your Whole Complicated, Unpredictable, Impossibly Amazing Life

by Melissa Kirsch

Welcome to The Girl’s Guide: Getting the Hang of Your Whole Complicated, Unpredictable, Impossibly Amazing Life! If you’re on the lookout for a fantastic book on raising girls, then you’ve come to the right place. This gem of a read is the ultimate guide for anyone navigating the thrilling journey of raising young ladies.

Written by the incredible Melissa Kirsch, this book about raising girls is an absolute game-changer. It’s filled to the brim with wisdom, advice, and empowering stories that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way.

Whether you’re a parent, a guardian, or a mentor, this raising girls book will equip you with the tools and knowledge to support the young women in your life as they navigate the complexities of growing up. With its relatable anecdotes and practical tips, you’ll find yourself laughing, nodding in agreement, and taking notes as you delve into each chapter.

The Girl’s Guide covers everything from self-care and body image to friendships, relationships, and career aspirations. It tackles the tough topics head-on, providing thoughtful guidance on how to navigate the sometimes treacherous waters of adolescence and early adulthood.

So, if you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable journey of empowerment and growth, grab a copy of The Girl’s Guide: Getting the Hang of Your Whole Complicated, Unpredictable, Impossibly Amazing Life today. This raising girls book will be your go-to resource, helping you navigate the wild ride that is helping young women find their place in the world.

The Secret Lives of Girls: What Good Girls Really Do–Sex Play, Aggression, and Their Guilt

by Sharon Lamb

The Secret Lives of Girls: What Good Girls Really Do–Sex Play, Aggression, and Their Guilt by Sharon Lamb is a captivating book on raising girls that delves deep into the hidden world of young girls. With a fresh and insightful perspective, Lamb explores the complex issues that girls face, challenging traditional notions of femininity and shedding light on the secret lives that they lead.

This thought-provoking book about raising girls explores the topics of sex play, aggression, and guilt, revealing the inner conflicts that girls often experience. Lamb examines the societal pressures and expectations that shape their behavior, providing valuable insights for parents, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the intricate dynamics of girlhood.

The Secret Lives of Girls offers a unique window into the world of girls, debunking myths and offering a fresh perspective on the challenges they face. With its engaging storytelling and thorough research, this raising girls book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand and support the girls in their lives.

The Princess Problem: Guiding Our Girls through the Princess-Obsessed Years

by Rebecca Hains

Are you a parent or guardian looking for a book about raising girls? Look no further than “The Princess Problem: Guiding Our Girls through the Princess-Obsessed Years” by Rebecca Hains. In this insightful and thought-provoking book, Hains explores the challenges that come with raising girls in a society that is obsessed with princess culture.

With a blend of personal anecdotes, research, and cultural analysis, Hains offers a fresh perspective on the impact princess culture has on girls’ development and self-esteem. She delves into topics such as body image, gender stereotypes, and the commercialization of childhood.

This book on raising girls goes beyond simply criticizing princess culture; it provides practical guidance for parents and caregivers on how to navigate these challenges. Hains offers strategies for fostering critical thinking, media literacy, and self-confidence in girls, helping them to navigate the princess-obsessed world with resilience and self-awareness.

If you’re seeking a raising girls book that will empower and equip you to guide your daughter through the princess-obsessed years, “The Princess Problem” is a must-read. Prepare to be inspired and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of raising girls in today’s society.

The Wonder Girls: Changing Our World

by Paola Gianturco

The Wonder Girls: Changing Our World by Paola Gianturco is an empowering and enlightening book on nurturing and empowering young women to become the leaders of tomorrow. This captivating book about raising girls is a must-read for parents, educators, and anyone who believes in the power of girlhood. The author, Paola Gianturco, takes readers on a journey around the world, showcasing the incredible stories of girls who are making a difference in their communities and beyond.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about raising girls are essential resources for parents, caregivers, and educators who want to navigate the unique challenges and joys of raising strong, confident, and empowered girls. From tackling gender stereotypes to fostering self-esteem and resilience, these books offer valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories. Whether you are looking for guidance on parenting techniques or seeking to understand the experiences of girls in today’s world, these books provide a wealth of knowledge and wisdom. Explore the pages of these books and embark on a transformative journey of raising girls who will thrive and make a positive impact on the world.