The First Girl Guide: The Story of Agnes Baden-Powell by Helen D. Gardner is an illuminating biography of the remarkable woman who laid the foundations of the Girl Guide movement. Often overshadowed by her famous brother, Robert Baden-Powell, Agnes Baden-Powell played a crucial and pioneering role in ensuring that girls had the same opportunities for adventure, skill-building and leadership as boys.

This compelling book explores Agnes’s early life, her strong sense of duty, her broad interests—from music and natural science to aviation—and her deep commitment to empowering young women. As the first President of the Girl Guides, she worked tirelessly to establish the organisation, shape its early programmes and prove its value at a time when society doubted the capabilities of girls.

Through rich storytelling and careful research, Gardner reveals Agnes as compassionate, determined and visionary—a leader who helped inspire millions of girls around the world.

The First Girl Guide is essential reading for anyone involved in Girl Guides, Scouts, women’s history or youth leadership. It offers a long-overdue tribute to a woman whose legacy continues to shape generations.

Author: Helen D Gardner