WOW Dozen: Books About Voting
Voters' rights vary around the world, with some countries granting universal suffrage while others restrict voting based on criteria such as age, citizenship or criminal record. In the U.S., voters' rights have been marked by obstacles like poll taxes, literacy tests and intimidation at the polls, which aimed to disenfranchise people based on race, economic status or gender. The books included in this WOW Dozen portray pivotal moments (historical and fictional) when communities fought for their voices to be heard in the democratic process. These narratives educate about past injustices and inspire young readers to become informed, engaged citizens who advocate for equality and fairness in voting rights.
For an in-depth discussion about the history of suffrage in the U.S. that includes books not in this WOW Dozen, read "An On-going Struggle for Equal Voting Rights" in this month's WOW Currents. Consider how you might share these stories with young people and leave your favorite books on voters' rights in the comments.
Journey with Lillian, a 100 year old voter from PA, as she recalls unfair obstacles many eligible citizens overcame, in their goal of entering a voting booth.
A teacher leads his Black colleagues in a march to the country courthouse to demand the right to vote.
A grandmother takes her granddaughter out on the walk to vote with their community.
The youngest marcher in the 1965 voting rights march shares her story.
Two teens team up to get their vote in after being turned away at the voting booth, leading to a day of adventure and romance.
A look at voting through history and around the world.
Explore the unjust literacy tests facing many U.S. Black voters in the 1900s. With patience and determination, learn about how one family eventually overcomes.
This inclusive compilation of women who fought for the right to vote provides an introduction to Black, Asian, Latinx, Indigenous & other women whose stories are less well-told.
This history of suffrage for women takes the reader around the world to look at progress women have made regarding voter rights & how much is left to be done.
This picturebook biography uses Fannie Lou Hammer's skillful public speaking style to tell her highly powerful & personal story that includes work as a civil & voting rights champion.
When her Abuelo hurts his ankle at the landfill, Sofia decides to take on City Hall & maybe even become president.
Iconic African American social justice champions narrate the life of Stacey Abrams & her fight for voters' rights.
WOW Dozen features a list of 12 global books for children and adolescents around a theme, topic, issue or personal favorites. Each Dozen consists of ten newly-published titles with two older "must have" books. Please share or recommend additional books that fit the theme in the comments section or on social media using #WOWDozen. Use the printer icon in the upper left corner of this post to print or save this list as a PDF.
