Our Favorite Banking & Financial Literacy Children's Books by Women Authors

Why are we celebrating Read Across America Day and Women's History Month at the same time? Well, we see this day as a unique opportunity to combine literary engagement with recognizing and honoring historical and contemporary contributions of women in literature - specifically in the area of financial education.

Renasant understands that a thriving community is built on shared knowledge, support, and opportunity. We hope this financial literacy children's book list will be a valuable resource to families and parents in order to start building a strong financial education foundation in their kids. 

Best for the Kids Who Have Aspirations

"Ella the Banker" is a great book for kids who have big aspirations as it was inspired by a ten-year-old's dream to become an author and his sister Ella's aspiration to be a banker. The book also serves as a valuable resource for families, educators and bankers interested in promoting financial literacy, wealth equity and the banking industry. Shamim's effort to collaborate with her kids to write a children's book inspires in us the importance of pursuing your own dreams while also supporting those of others. 

Ella the Banker by Shamim Okolloh

Best for Introducing Financial Education to Young Kids

"Lolita's Rainy Day" is an excellent book to introduce the concept of financial literacy to young kids as it tells the story of a six-year-old girl who learns the importance of 'saving for a rainy day.' Created by Milagros S. Johnson, the book is designed to inspire and educate children on money through a relatable and engaging narrative, drawing from the author's personal experiences and dedication to empowering young minds with essential money management skills.

Lolita's Rainy Day by Milagros S. Johnson

Best for Teaching Financial and Self Wealth

The Money Bunny book series stands out because of their engaging stories that impart valuable lessons not just about money, but also about pride, independence, choice, wisdom, goals, planning, patience, love, and gratitude to young readers. By introducing these fundamental financial principles at an early age in a humorous and colorful manner, Cinders McLeod's money bunnies equip children with the necessary skills to navigate the world of money confidently and responsibly.

MoneyBunny Series by Cinders McLeod

Best for Teaching Financial Literacy Through Reading and Activities

The Mimi Money Book Series reinforces financial literacy in children by providing additional activities and resources on the books' website that connects back to Mimi's stories. Michele Cho-Dorado believes it's important to introduce kids to the basics of financial literacy at a young age so they can have solid foundation to grow and develop into financially savvy leaders and compassionate changemakers. 

Reach For The Stars (Mimi's Money Book Series) by Michele Cho-Dorado

Best for Visual Learners

"How to Money" is an ideal book for kids and teens who are visual learners, as it offers an in-depth, full-color illustrated guide to the basics of finance. Through visual aids, infographics, and engaging illustrations by Nina Cosford, this book makes complex financial concepts accessible and easy to understand. Jean Chatzky, founder of HerMoney and author of "How to Money", provides an empowering message that money management can be both comprehensible and enjoyable for kids.

How to Money by Jean Chatzky & Kathryn Tuggle

Best for Girls Who Want to Learn from Other Girls

"A Smart Girl's Guide: Money (Revised): How to Make It, Save It, and Spend It" is an excellent resource for girls looking to learn about money management from the perspectives of other girls. The book features quizzes, tips, and quotes from peers, making it relatable and engaging for its target audience of ages 10-12. Authored under the American Girl brand, known for producing empowering and educational content for young girls, this book provides valuable insights into financial literacy in a fun and accessible way.

A Smart Girl's Guide: Money (Revised): How to Make It, Save It, and Spend It by Nancy Holyoke

Best for Families to Read Together

"A Chair for My Mother" by Vera B. Williams may be a book that parents and grandparents alike may remember. Published in 1982, this is an excellent book for families to read together as it teaches valuable lessons about resilience, hard work, and the importance of saving money. The story's theme of community support and the family's determination to save for a new chair after losing their possessions in a fire provides a heartwarming and relatable lesson on financial literacy for young readers. Through the book's compelling narrative and beautiful illustrations, families can engage in meaningful discussions about the importance of saving and coming together during tough times.

A Chair for my Mother by Vera B Williams