By Carolyn Danckaert, amightygirl.com

Carolyn Danckaert and Aaron Smith live in Washington, D.C., with their four nieces and a nephew nearby. They are very excited to launch their latest labor of love, A Mighty Girl.

After years of seeking out empowering and inspirational books for our four young nieces, we decided to create A Mighty Girl as a resource site to help other Savvy Aunties and Uncles equally interested in supporting and celebrating girls. All children should have the opportunity to read books and watch movies that offer positive messages about girls and honor their diverse capabilities.

Girls do not have to be relegated to the role of sidekick or damsel in distress; they can be the leaders, the heroes, the champions that save the day, find the cure, and go on the adventure. It is our hope that these high-quality children’s products will help a new generation of girls to grow and pursue whatever dreams they choose -- to truly be Mighty Girls!

Auntie’s Day takes place on July 22 – a great opportunity to encourage and inspire nieces to become adventurous Mighty Girls like their Savvy Aunties! Below are a few great girl-empowering reads that Savvy Aunties and their nieces may enjoy together.

Top 5 for Savvy Auntie:

The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making (ages 10-adult)
Wonderful fantasy-adventure story about twelve-year-old September, who lives in Omaha and used to have an ordinary life until her father went to war and her mother went to work. She is met at her kitchen window by a Green Wind (taking the form of a gentleman in a green jacket), who invites her on an adventure, implying that her help is needed in Fairyland. The new Marquess is unpredictable and fickle and also not much older than September. Only September can retrieve a talisman the Marquess wants from the enchanted woods, and if she doesn’t…

The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy (ages 9-12)
This is a charming summer adventure story about four sisters that's quite similar to a modern day "Anne of Green Gables." This summer, the Penderwick sisters have a wonderful surprise: a holiday on the grounds of a beautiful estate called Arundel. Soon, they are busy discovering the summertime magic of Arundel’s sprawling gardens, treasure-filled attic, tame rabbits, and the cook who makes the best gingerbread in Massachusetts. But the best discovery of all is Jeffrey Tifton, son of Arundel’s owner, who quickly proves to be the perfect companion for their adventures.

I Like Myself (ages 3-8)
This is a humorous picture book ode to self-esteem that encourages kids to appreciate themselves. Messy hair? Beaver-breath? So what?! Here’s a little girl who knows what really matters.

Blueberry Girl (all ages)
This beautiful picture book about celebrating girls also makes an excellent baby shower or graduation gift. A much-loved baby grows into a young woman: brave, adventurous, and lucky. Exploring, traveling, and bathed in sunshine, surrounded by the wonders of the world – every girl’s dream.

Courageous Princess (ages 7-14)
This is a fantastic graphic novel about a courageous princess who rescues herself from a dragon and sets off on a grand adventure. Princess Mabelrose may not be the fairest of the land, but she has enough brains and bravery to fend for herself in a fantasy world of danger and adventure! From a mighty dragon with an army of trolls to a tiger kind, Mabelrose meets each challenge with courage and pluck, her bravery winning her the help and friendship of many of the people, creatures, and magical beings she encounters in her quest to find her way home.

You may also be interested in several of A Mighty Girl's special features, including:

-Our collection of the "Top Read Aloud Chapter Books starring Mighty Girls:" These books are perfect for reading aloud with elementary-aged children or as independent reading for older children. Many of the books recommended for children ages 9 and up are also excellent choices as real alouds for younger readers, as Savvy Aunties can use the book as a jumping off point for discussing relevant topics.

-"The Ultimate Guide to the Independent Princess:" This collection of books star princesses who are smart, daring, and aren't waiting around to be rescued.

Photo: Courtesy of A Mighty Girl
Published: July 16, 2012