Families who loved Girls to the Rescue by Bruce Lansky often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.

Reach for this book when your daughter starts to believe that princesses are always the ones being saved or when she expresses doubt in her own ability to handle difficult situations. This collection moves beyond traditional damsel-in-distress tropes by gathering folk tales from around the world where girls are the clever, brave, and resourceful leads. Each story emphasizes that strength comes in many forms, from quick wit and kindness to physical courage and perseverance. It is a perfect choice for parents of elementary-aged children who want to broaden their child's view of female agency through short, engaging narratives that are both age-appropriate and culturally diverse. These stories provide a healthy foundation for self-confidence, showing that every girl has the power to be her own hero.