Renowned feminist icon Gloria Steinem and Nobel Peace Prize winner Leymah Gbowee unite for an empowering picture book promoting activism, friendship, and courage among young readers.
By Lydia Kane, Senior Correspondent
NEW YORK, NY — May 21, 2025 — Two of the world’s most celebrated human rights advocates are teaming up for a powerful new literary project aimed at the youngest generation. Gloria Steinem and Leymah Gbowee have announced the upcoming release of their co-authored children’s picture book titled Rise, Girl, Rise: Our Sister-Friend Journey. Together for All.
Set for publication by Scholastic Inc. in February 2026, the book is illustrated by artist Kah Yangni and is poised to deliver a poignant message of unity, empowerment, and social change. Inspired by the authors’ decades-long friendship and shared passion for justice, the work introduces children to the values of activism, solidarity, and hope.
A Powerful Partnership in Print
This unique collaboration brings together two extraordinary women from different continents who have long fought for women’s rights and peace. Gloria Steinem, a pioneering American feminist, and Leymah Gbowee, a Liberian peace activist who helped end her country’s civil war and received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011, met through their shared advocacy work.
“Children need stories that show them they can make a difference, even at a young age,” Steinem said in a statement about the book. “This is our love letter to the next generation of change-makers.”
Gbowee echoed the sentiment, noting the importance of female friendship and mentorship: “Our bond has been one of strength, laughter, and learning. This book is about what happens when women uplift each other — and how that spirit can inspire children around the world.”
Empowerment Through Storytelling
The narrative of Rise, Girl, Rise is told in a lyrical, rhythmic format designed to resonate with young minds. Through vivid illustrations and carefully chosen language, the book celebrates diversity, resilience, and the collective power of girls supporting one another.
Illustrator Kah Yangni, known for their vibrant and socially conscious artwork, brings the story to life with colorful depictions of young girls navigating their communities, dreaming big, and finding courage in companionship. Yangni described the project as “an honor,” saying they hoped the images would reflect the beauty and strength of the global sisterhood the authors represent.
Addressing a Growing Demand for Diverse Books
The announcement of Rise, Girl, Rise comes at a time when parents and educators alike are increasingly calling for more inclusive and empowering children’s literature. According to a recent study by the Cooperative Children’s Book Center, only about 30% of children’s books published annually feature characters from diverse racial backgrounds, and even fewer are authored by women of color.
Steinem and Gbowee’s book addresses this gap not just in representation, but in theme — offering a story rooted in real-world activism and mutual support, framed for a young audience.
A Legacy Project for Two Activist Icons
Both authors have left indelible marks on global history through their activism. Steinem co-founded Ms. magazine and has been a trailblazer in the women’s rights movement for over 50 years. Gbowee’s role in organizing a nonviolent movement of women that brought an end to Liberia’s civil war has become a model of grassroots peacebuilding.
Together, they’ve spoken on international stages, advised leaders, and championed causes ranging from gender equality to education and conflict resolution. This children’s book, they say, is a natural extension of their lifelong mission — to plant the seeds of justice in the next generation.
Looking Toward February
As Scholastic prepares the book’s rollout, educators, parents, and literary critics are already expressing anticipation. The publisher plans to include the title in its educational outreach programs, with lesson guides and activities aimed at fostering classroom discussions about activism and friendship.
For children, Rise, Girl, Rise promises to be more than a story — it’s a heartfelt call to action from two of the world’s most inspiring voices.