Girls on the Rise
By Amanda Gorman
The Story
An original poem celebrates girls and girlhood in all their forms, honoring how girls have shaped history while calling them to stand together and march boldly into the future.
Why It's Special
For the kid who's starting to notice the news, the world, and her own voice in it, this is a poem that hands her a megaphone instead of a warning.
- Big idea: Girls are powerful on their own, but unstoppable when they lift each other up.
- Vibes: Rousing, poetic, and proud — more rallying cry than bedtime lullaby.
Perfect For Kids Who
- respond well to rhythmic, poetic language
- are working on seeing their own strength and voice
- enjoy bold, vivid illustrations
- like to talk about fairness and standing up for others
Ask Your Little Reader
- Big idea: What do you think it means for girls to be 'light, standing together in the fight'?
- Real-life connection: Can you think of a time you helped lift up a friend instead of competing with her?
- Imagination: If you could add your own line to this poem about who girls are, what would you say?
- Feelings & empathy: What does it feel like when someone celebrates you for your courage instead of how you look?
- History & heritage: Can you name a girl or woman from history who marched boldly, like the book talks about?
