Little Dreamers: Visionary Women Around the World Literature Guide

Grade Level: 
K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Keywords: 
Courage
Diversity
Global Community
Ideals/Reality
Leadership
by Vashti Harrison - A guide for parents, teachers, and group leaders to accompany the reading of this picture book. The guide below provides before, during, and after-reading discussion questions. Choose from activities and discussion questions to explore the lives of women creators around the world.

Little Dreamers makes a very meaningful connection for girls, young and old, who dream of their future and the impact they would like to make in our world.  Everyone wants to do some great.  We all dream about where we can "make a difference." The women featured in this book were once little girls with dreams. They wanted to make an impact in the world and they pursued their dream.  The women highlighted “made the world a better place to live.” 

Literature Guide by Joyce Matthews

Before Reading 

Ask: Have you thought or dreamed about what you would like to do in the future? What are you doing to help yourself meet the goal you have set for yourself? 

Show: As you look through the book, what are your thoughts about the pictures of the women? Why do you think the author used characters of young girls instead of the adults they have become? While the book is about girls and women, what is the message for boys and men?

Connect: Why do you think the author uses women leaders from all over the world? 

During Reading 

Ask: What do you think about the accomplishments of these amazing women?  Do you identify with any of the girls and their dreams and talents? Do you know any people who have the same career or profession? 

Show: What information in the book makes you stop and reflect on the women's contribution? What does it mean to make a contribution

Connect: What questions do you have as you read about the accomplishments of these women? Are you interested in any of these careers? 

After Reading 

Ask: What do you think is the effect or purpose of reading about the early life of a successful person? 

Show: Look back at the many women featured. Which stories stand out for you and why?

Connect: This book features women because women throughout history sometimes were blocked by a society that thought they should not be scientists and creators. Talk about why ALL boys and girls should be encouraged to be their best.

Activities 

  1. Draw a picture of yourself or get a photo of you as a younger child. Write about yourself as a “Little Dreamer”? 
  2. Make a list of women you would add to this book who have made a contribution. 
  3. What are your dreams? What have you done to explore them?  What would you need in order to make your dream come true?  Is there anyone you know who has accomplished their dream?  How do you know? 
  4. Who are your top 5 or top 10 from the book of “Little Dreamers”? Why? Share the book with others and graph your top choices. Who stands out and why?