March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and appreciate the countless contributions of women throughout history. One of the best ways to do this is by reading books written by female authors, who have played a pivotal role in shaping our literary landscape with their unique perspectives and powerful narratives.
In honor of Women’s History Month, we’ve compiled a list of 10 must-read books by female authors. From memoirs to novels, these books cover a range of genres and offer insights into the experiences of women from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the struggles and triumphs of women in the workplace or explore themes of family, religion, and politics in Nigeria, this list has something for everyone.
By reading books written by women, we can gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and perspectives that women face in our society, and help to promote gender equality and empowerment. So, without further ado, here are 10 books by female authors that you should add to your reading list.
1. “Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg
Sheryl Sandberg’s book “Lean In” focuses on women in the workplace. Sandberg, who is the COO of Facebook, provides practical advice and guidance to help women achieve their goals and break down barriers in the workplace. Whether you are just starting your career or are a seasoned professional, “Lean In” is a must-read.
2. “Becoming” by Michelle Obama
This memoir follows Michelle Obama’s life journey from growing up in the South Side of Chicago to becoming the first Black First Lady of the United States. In the book, she candidly shares her personal experiences, including the challenges she faced as a Black woman in America, her time at Princeton and Harvard Law School, and her life in the White House. “Becoming” is an inspiring story of resilience, hard work, and determination, and it encourages readers to embrace their own unique journeys.
3. “Purple Hibiscus” by Chimamanda Adichie
Chimamanda Adichie’s book “Purple Hibiscus” explores themes of family, religion, and politics in Nigeria. Adichie is a leading voice in African literature, and her literary prowess is on full display in this novel. If you want to read a book that is both beautifully written and culturally significant, “Purple Hibiscus” is the perfect choice.
4. “Tomorrow I Become a Woman” by Aiwonose Odafen
Aiwonose Odafen’s book “Tomorrow I Become a Woman” explores the complexities of being a woman in contemporary African society. The book is a powerful and moving account of the struggles that women face in a patriarchal society. Odafen is an emerging voice in African literature, and her work is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the experiences of women in Africa.
5. “We Should All Be Feminists” by Chimamanda Adichie
Chimamanda Adichie’s book “We Should All Be Feminists” explores the importance of gender equality and challenges traditional gender roles. The book is based on Adichie’s TED Talk on the same topic, which went viral and sparked a global conversation on feminism. If you want to learn more about feminism and the importance of gender equality, “We Should All Be Feminists” is a great place to start.
6. “Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank
Anne Frank’s book “The Diary of a Young Girl” is a poignant and moving account of a young girl’s experiences during the Holocaust. The book is a powerful reminder of the atrocities that occurred during World War II and the resilience of the human spirit. It is an important book to read, especially for younger generations who may not be familiar with the events of the Holocaust.
7. “The Joys of Motherhood” by Buchi Emecheta
Buchi Emecheta’s book “The Joys of Motherhood” explores the experiences of women in colonial-era Nigeria and the struggles of motherhood. The book is a powerful and moving account of the challenges that women face in a patriarchal society. Emecheta’s work paved the way for African women writers, and “The Joys of Motherhood” is a must-read for anyone interested in African literature.
8. So Long a Letter by Mariama Ba
Mariama Ba’s book “So Long a Letter” explores themes of feminism and polygamy in Senegal. The book is a powerful and moving account of the struggles that women face in a patriarchal society. Through the protagonist Ramatoulaye’s letter to her childhood friend, Aissatou, Ba offers a poignant reflection on the challenges of womanhood, including the balancing act between traditional expectations and personal fulfillment. “So Long a Letter” is an essential read for anyone interested in African literature and feminist thought.
9. How Women Rise by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith
Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith’s book “How Women Rise” provides practical advice for women looking to break through the glass ceiling in the workplace. The book offers a roadmap for overcoming common obstacles and provides actionable strategies for developing leadership skills. “How Women Rise” is a must-read for women at any stage of their career.
10. The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s book “The Light We Carry” is a collection of her reflections on life, love, and leadership. Through her personal experiences, Obama offers insights into the importance of community, resilience, and self-care. With her signature warmth and candor, Obama shares the lessons she’s learned and the wisdom she’s gained throughout her life. “The Light We Carry” is an inspiring and thought-provoking read that will leave readers feeling empowered and uplifted.
