Women’s History Month

March 22, 2012

We’re celebrating Women’s History Month here at the Platte City Branch during the month of March. 

For those who don’t know, Women’s History Month has been around since the early 1980s and is nationally recognized by the Library of Congress. This year's theme is Women’s Education-Women’s Empowerment, and I think there’s no better place to find some great examples of this theme than at the public library. As part of this month’s blog, I asked coworkers to respond to the question, "Who’s your favorite female character?" The responses varied from well-known to obscure, characters were young and old, and ranged from today’s popular fiction to historical novels. 

Here are some great characters that embody this years’ theme for Women’s History Month! 

• Mrs. Pollifax - the Mrs. Pollifax series by Dorothy Gilman; Gilman writes about a senior citizen, Emily Pollifax, who finds herself accidently becoming a spy for the CIA. The Mrs. Pollifax series spanned four decades, from 1966 to 2000!
• Stephanie Plum - the Plum series by Janet Evanovich; one of the most popular series in recent years, these books follow the escapades of bounty hunter Stephanie Plum as she catches criminals while attempting to lead an 'average' life.
• Karana - Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell; Karana is stranded on an island and forced to fend for herself for many years. This book, based on a true story, won the coveted Newbery Medal in 1961.
• Jane Eyre - Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte; Bronte’s book is sometimes considered one of the first feminist novels, simply because of the independent yet moral nature of Jane herself.  As she is described here at the branch: "She had a hard life, but she stuck to her principles. Shouldn't have any backbone or self-esteem yet she DOES."

These are only a few great female characters that have inspired us. For some more great examples, stop by the branch and check out our display, or feel free to share other great female characters that inspire you! 

Jamie C.
Platte City Branch