Ladies, we all need a little motivation every now and then. Whether it’s to chase our dreams, embrace self-love, or just get through a tough day, the right book can be like a pep talk from a wise best friend. So, in the spirit of Women’s Day, here’s a list of 14 must-read books that will inspire, uplift, and empower you.
We’ve split them into two sections - fiction and non-fiction - because sometimes you want a powerful true story, and other times, you just need to escape into a world of strong female leads. Let’s dive in!
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A. Fiction: Stories That Inspire And Empower
1. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
A timeless classic, Jane Eyre follows the journey of an orphaned girl who faces cruelty and hardship but refuses to let life define her. As she grows into an independent and strong-willed woman, Jane’s resilience, intelligence, and sense of self-worth drive her decisions. She chooses love on her own terms, defies social expectations, and proves that a woman’s strength lies in her unwavering self-respect. With themes of feminism, autonomy, and personal integrity, this novel remains an inspiration for women who refuse to settle for anything less than what they deserve.
2. The Color Purple by Alice Walker
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the moving story of Celie, a Black woman in early 20th-century America, who endures abuse and oppression before finding her voice. Told through letters, The Color Purple explores themes of resilience, sisterhood, and self-discovery. Celie’s journey from a life of suffering to one of empowerment and love is deeply emotional and inspiring. The novel’s raw and poetic storytelling makes it a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of transformation and the strength of the human spirit.
3. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
A heartwarming and empowering tale, Little Women follows the lives of the four March sisters - Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy - each striving to carve out their own path in 19th-century America. Jo March, the fiercely independent and ambitious writer, is a standout character who defies traditional gender roles and encourages women to pursue their dreams unapologetically. The novel beautifully explores themes of love, ambition, sisterhood, and perseverance, making it an enduring favourite among readers of all ages.
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4. Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
This beautifully written novel by American zoologist Delia Owens follows Kya Clark, an abandoned girl who raises herself in the marshlands of North Carolina. Isolated from society, she learns to thrive in nature, developing intelligence and resilience despite facing prejudice and loneliness. When she becomes entangled in a murder mystery, her strength and survival instincts are put to the test. Where The Crawdads Sing is a powerful story of independence, perseverance, and the deep bond between a woman and the natural world.
5. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II, The Nightingale tells the story of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who take different but equally courageous paths during the war. Vianne protects her family while Isabelle risks her life for the French Resistance. This gripping novel highlights the often-overlooked role of women in wartime, showcasing their resilience, sacrifice, and unbreakable spirit. It’s a testament to the courage that women have always demonstrated in the face of adversity.
6. Circe by Madeline Miller
A mesmerising retelling of the Greek myth, Circe follows the journey of a nymph who is exiled to a deserted island after defying the gods. As she hones her powers, Circe transforms from an outcast into a formidable force, challenging the dominance of men and gods alike. Winner of the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fantasy, this novel explores themes of female empowerment, self-discovery, and reclaiming one’s power. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves mythology and strong female protagonists.
7. The Vegetarian by Han Kang
Winner of the Man Booker International Prize and the 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature, this haunting and provocative novel follows Yeong-hye, a South Korean woman who decides to stop eating meat after a disturbing dream. Her seemingly simple choice spirals into a dramatic act of rebellion against societal norms and patriarchal control. As her family and society struggle to understand her transformation, The Vegetarian explores themes of autonomy, mental health, and resistance. It’s a deeply unsettling but powerful story about a woman reclaiming her body and identity in a restrictive world.
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B. Non-Fiction: Real Stories And Wisdom To Empower You
8. Becoming by Michelle Obama
In this deeply personal memoir, Michelle Obama takes readers on a journey from her childhood on Chicago’s South Side to her years as First Lady of the United States. She shares the challenges she faced, from balancing career and motherhood to navigating political life, all while staying true to herself. With powerful insights on resilience, ambition, and leadership, Becoming is an inspiring read for any woman striving to carve out her own path in life.
9. I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
This powerful memoir tells the true story of Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani girl who stood up for girls' education and was shot by the Taliban for her activism. Despite this, she continued her fight for education rights, becoming the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate. Her resilience, courage, and unwavering belief in the power of education make this an incredibly inspiring read for women and girls worldwide.
10. Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Part memoir, part manifesto, Untamed is a bold and empowering book about breaking free from societal expectations. Glennon Doyle shares her personal journey of self-discovery, challenging women to listen to their inner voices and embrace their true selves. The book is filled with powerful insights on self-love, courage, and authenticity, making it a must-read for anyone seeking personal growth and transformation.
11. Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
A must-read for women in the workplace, Lean In by Facebook’s former COO, Sheryl Sandberg, offers practical advice on leadership, gender equality, and confidence. It challenges women to take charge of their careers, overcome self-doubt, and break down barriers in professional settings. With discussions on imposter syndrome, mentorship, and work-life balance, this book is an essential guide for women striving to succeed in their careers.
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12. Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay
In this thought-provoking collection of essays, Roxane Gay explores the complexities of modern feminism, pop culture, and identity. With wit and honesty, she discusses everything from race to body image and the contradictions of striving for gender equality. A New York Times bestseller, Bad Feminist is both relatable and insightful, making it a must-read for women navigating the challenges of contemporary feminism.
13. The Moment Of Lift by Melinda Gates
This inspiring book by philanthropist Melinda Gates explores how empowering women can transform societies worldwide. Through moving personal stories and case studies from around the globe, she highlights the importance of gender equality and how investing in women - through education, healthcare, and economic opportunities - creates lasting change. It’s a powerful read for those looking to make a difference.
14. You Are A Badass by Jen Sincero
If you need a boost of confidence, You Are a Badass is the perfect pick. Jen Sincero’s witty and no-nonsense guide helps readers overcome self-doubt, take bold steps, and unlock their full potential. Packed with humour, practical advice, and motivational wisdom, this book is a great read for anyone ready to level up their life.
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Final Thoughts
No matter where you are in life, these 14 books will remind you of the strength, courage, and brilliance that every woman carries within her. This Women’s Day, gift yourself (or another amazing woman in your life) one of these reads and celebrate the power of storytelling to uplift and empower us all!
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