Book cover of Wangari Maathai: The Woman Who Planted Millions of Trees

Book description

“Trees are living symbols of peace and hope.” –Wangari Maathai, Nobel Peace laureate

Wangari Maathai changed the way the world thinks about nature, ecology, freedom, and democracy, inspiring radical efforts that continue to this day.This simply told story begins with Green Belt Movement founder Wangari Maathai’s childhood at the foot…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Wangari Maathai as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I found Kenyan biologist and environmental activist Wangari Maathai’s story inspiring, heartbreaking, and ultimately, triumphant.

Prévot’s text may require you to read this one closely with your kids – and be ready for conversations about authoritarianism and political rights. At the same time, Maathai’s successes and accomplishments are astonishing: the book’s title is an understatement – the Green Belt Movement which she founded has planted about 50 million trees now.

Fronty’s illustrations are beautiful, easy to get lost in, and make this book sing. This is a visually striking work with an important story to tell about science, perseverance, and…

From Deshan's list on kids’ reads about women in science.

If you love Wangari Maathai...

Ad

Book cover of Pedal Pusher: How One Woman's Bicycle Adventure Helped Change the World

Pedal Pusher by Mary Boone,

In 1894, Annie Cohen Kopchovsky set out to ride her bicycle. Not to the market. Not around the block. Not across town. Annie was going to ride her bike all the way around the world—because two men bet no woman could do it. Ha!

This picture book, with watercolor illustrations…

Want books like Wangari Maathai?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 78 books like Wangari Maathai.

Browse books like Wangari Maathai

Book cover of Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean's Most Fearless Scientist
Book cover of Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World
Book cover of The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,277

readers submitted
so far, will you?

Ad

📚 If you like Wangari Maathai, you might also like...

Book cover of Zara the Zebu

Zara the Zebu by Adelaide Bauman,

Zeni lives in the Flint Hills of Southeast Kansas. This tale begins with her dream of befriending a miniature zebu calf coming true and follows Zeni as she works to befriend Zara. Enjoy full-color illustrations and a story filled with whimsy and plenty of opportunity for discussions around the perspectives…

Book cover of Real Princesses Change the World

Real Princesses Change the World by Carrie A. Pearson,

Real Princesses Change the World is an inspirational and diverse picture book that highlights 11 contemporary real-life princesses and four heirs apparent from around the world.

Have you heard of a STEM-aligned real-life princess who is an engineer and product developer? Or a princess who is a computer expert? An…

5 book lists we think you will like!