When I was growing up, I read books to learn more about the world, the people around me and to see myself. I focussed on books with female protagonists by female authors. Mysteries were my thing and I started with girl detectives Trixie Belden and Nancy Drew and then moved on to mysteries by Agatha Christie, Georgette Heyer (better known for her romances), Dorothy L Sayers and Mary Stewart (who handily combined mystery and romance).

I was hungry for female heroes - strong, incredible women who could and did do anything they set their mind to. I want the same for my girls. I want them to know that they can do anything they dream and that they are strong, brave and amazing. Luckily for them, there are now wonderful books celebrating incredible women throughout history.

We got this amazing and inspiring little selection as Christmas gifts this year and there was even title for me by Lisa Congdon celebrating incredible older women. The women in the book are not just older, they started doing what they love when they were older. I'm forty-five and it's reassuring to know that I can start doing what I love now.

My seven year old daughter Phoebe loves her Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls book so much that she even spent $50 of her savings on the second volume.

If you're feeling stuck and need some inspiraition, I recommend one of these great titles. And if you know any incredible women and girls, tell them about these books. Let's spread the word - women are brilliant and have done fabulous things all throughout history!