The first book is You Forgot Your Skirt, Amelia Bloomer by Shana Corey. Amelia Bloomer is NOT a proper lady. This is a hilarious tale of Amelia Bloomer, who does not behave the way nineteenth-century society tells her a "proper lady" should.
Ruby's Wish is the perfect example of perseverance: an engaging portrait of a young girl who strives for more and a family who rewards her hard work and courage. It is based on the inspirational story of the author's grandmother.
Both of these books are wonderful!! Kids can totally relate to being told they CAN'T do something and these two heroines prove they CAN make a change with determination and perseverance! My class has been utilizing Close Reading strategies: stopping to "Notice and Note' while they read (or while I read to them!) These books are great examples of (modified) Contrasts and Contradictions: characters acting in a surprising manner (from what you would expect). Both Amelia and Ruby do NOT act like women of their time. I've made a quick Signpost sheet for these books; feel free to download here.
What books do you use to teach perseverance and determination? I'd love to add to my list!