This week, I have chosen books based on Miss Delargy’s request for stories about strong women from history. Some of the women are well known, but most of their voices are not. All of this weeks books are written by Honor Cargill-Martin – an amazing author, classicist and art historian who is passionate about herstory being told,
First, I have chosen Heroines Of The Ancient World which is a beautifully illustrated book that brings to life the fascinating stories of remarkable women from ancient history introducing children to courageous and inspiring heroines whose lives have shaped the world in unique ways.
The book features vivid and engaging retellings of powerful women, such as Cleopatra, the famous Egyptian ruler known for her intelligence and leadership; Mary Hebraea, recognised as the first known alchemist who explored the mysteries of science; and Boudica, the fierce warrior queen who bravely fought to protect her people. Each story is written in a way that is accessible and exciting for young readers, sparking their curiosity about ancient times and the extraordinary lives of these women.
The illustrations throughout the book are rich and colourful, perfectly complementing the stories and helping to transport children back to the ancient worlds these heroines lived in. It’s an inspiring read that not only entertains but also educates, offering children a chance to learn about history from the perspective of strong female figures often overlooked in traditional history lessons.
Celebrating bravery, intelligence, and resilience, showing that heroism comes in many forms, Heroines of the Ancient Worlds is a truly empowering read that brings history to life with the amazing stories of women who changed the ancient world.
Next, I have picked She Speaks: The Women Of Greek Myths In Their Own Words, a refreshing twist on familiar Greek tales – this time told by the women who lived them.
In this engaging and beautifully written collection, classicist Honor Cargill-Martin gives voice to eight iconic female characters from Greek mythology, from the misunderstood Medusa to the determined Atalanta.
Each story is told in the first person, allowing readers to step directly into the minds of these powerful and complex women. We meet Medea, the clever sorceress who helped Jason on his quest for the Golden Fleece; Ariadne, the brave princess who helped defeat the Minotaur; and Helen of Troy, who reclaims her story after being blamed for a war. Other well-known figures like Circe and Pandora also feature, each one reimagined with empathy, intelligence, and strength.
The writing is both accessible and thought-provoking, making it a perfect introduction to mythology for young readers, especially those curious about history, storytelling, and strong female characters. Honor’s passion for the Classics shines through every page, and her retellings invite children to see these ancient tales in a bold new light. The book is also beautifully illustrated by Camelia Pham, whose fantasy-inspired artwork adds depth and drama to each story.
This collection is a celebration of courage, cleverness, and the power of telling your own story. A must-read for anyone who’s ever wondered what really happened in those ancient myths.
And finally, whether you are just starting to explore British history or are already fascinated by the Tudor era, The Six Queens Of Henry VIII is an engaging read that will inspire curiosity and respect for the women behind one of England’s most famous kings.
Most of us know the story of Henry VIII and his six wives, but this beautifully illustrated book offers a fresh and exciting look at these remarkable women, showing that they were much more than just wives. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy history mixed with adventure and fascinating facts.
Did you know that Catherine of Aragon, Henry’s first wife, once rallied troops while wearing full armour — even though she was heavily pregnant? Or that Anne of Cleves met Henry VIII before they were married, but didn’t recognise him because he was disguised? And Catherine Parr, the last queen, was the one who convinced Henry to restore his daughters Mary and Elizabeth to the throne, two of Britain’s most famous monarchs?
Bringing the six queens to life, highlighting their courage, intelligence, and determination, Honor uses a mix of fascinating fact files and graphic novel style recounts of the wives’ lives. It’s filled with stories of ambition, tricky political games, and plenty of scandal. The powerful descriptions of their lives, from glittering gowns to secret plots, make history feel exciting and relatable for children. Bright, bold, colourful graphics by Jamiee Andrews bring these strong personalities to life.
The Six Queens of Henry VIII helps readers understand that these women were powerful figures who shaped history in their own right, and should not just be remembered as Henry’s wives. The lively storytelling and interesting details are sure to capture the imagination of children and adults alike.
Happy reading!
