Are you ready to dive into a world filled with inspiring stories of remarkable women who have defied expectations and shattered glass ceilings? Look no further! In this carefully curated list, we bring you the 20 best books about powerful women that will leave you feeling empowered and motivated. From memoirs of trailblazing leaders to fictional tales of extraordinary heroines, these powerful women books are a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and a reminder of the incredible impact women have had throughout history.
Contents
- 1 Becoming
- 2 Hidden Figures
- 3 Educated
- 4 The Handmaid’s Tale
- 5 I Am Malala
- 6 The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
- 7 Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China
- 8 Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide
- 9 The Diary of a Young Girl
- 10 The Color Purple
- 11 The Help
- 12 The Glass Castle
- 13 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
- 14 The Hunger Games
- 15 The Joy Luck Club
- 16 The Bell Jar
- 17 The Secret Life of Bees
- 18 The Power
- 19 The Book of Unknown Americans
- 20 The Girl on the Train
- 21 Conclusion
Becoming
by Michelle Obama
Becoming by Michelle Obama is an inspiring memoir that delves into the extraordinary journey of one of the most influential and formidable women of our time. This remarkable book offers readers an intimate glimpse into the life of a trailblazer, a woman who has shattered glass ceilings and defied expectations.
Through the pages of this captivating memoir, Michelle Obama takes us on a compelling voyage, sharing her experiences growing up on the South Side of Chicago, navigating the challenges of balancing career and motherhood, and ultimately becoming the First Lady of the United States.
This book is not just a memoir; it is a testament to the resilience, strength, and determination of a woman who has dedicated her life to empowering others. Michelle Obama’s story serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us that we have the power to shape our own destinies and make a difference in the world.
Becoming is not just a book about a powerful woman; it is a celebration of the countless powerful women who have paved the way for change. It is a tribute to the unsung heroes, the women who have fought tirelessly for equality and justice. Through her own story, Michelle Obama pays homage to the collective strength and courage of all women.
With her eloquent prose and heartfelt reflections, Michelle Obama invites readers to join her on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and hope. Becoming is a book that will leave you inspired, empowered, and ready to embrace your own power as a woman.
Hidden Figures
by Margot Lee Shetterly
Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly is an extraordinary book about the untold stories of brilliant, groundbreaking women who defied the odds and shattered barriers. This captivating book unveils the remarkable journey of a group of trailblazing female mathematicians, engineers, and scientists who played a pivotal role in the early years of NASA.
Educated
by Tara Westover
Educated is an awe-inspiring memoir that unveils the remarkable journey of Tara Westover, a woman who triumphs over adversity and defies all odds to become a force to be reckoned with. This powerful narrative takes readers on an unforgettable ride through the life of a young girl raised in a secluded, survivalist family in rural Idaho.
With no formal education, Tara’s world is confined to the mountains and her family’s strict beliefs. However, her hunger for knowledge and thirst for freedom compel her to break the chains that bind her. In a quest for education, she embarks on a breathtaking odyssey, overcoming countless obstacles and defying societal expectations.
Educated is not just a book about powerful women; it is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams. Tara’s transformation from an isolated, uneducated girl to a Harvard-educated scholar is an extraordinary tale of empowerment and self-discovery.
Through her captivating prose, Tara introduces readers to a world where determination and education can shatter the barriers that confine us. Her story serves as a reminder that true strength lies within, and with unwavering determination, we can rise above any obstacle and rewrite our own destinies.
The Handmaid’s Tale
by Margaret Atwood
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood is a captivating dystopian novel that delves into a chilling future where women are stripped of their rights and reduced to mere vessels for procreation. This thought-provoking masterpiece takes us on a journey through the eyes of Offred, a handmaid in the Republic of Gilead, where fertility is prized above all else.
Atwood’s powerful narrative paints a vivid picture of a world where women are oppressed, silenced, and forced into submission. Through Offred’s eyes, we witness the struggles, resilience, and inner strength of these women as they navigate a society that seeks to control their bodies and minds.
This book is not just a story; it is a poignant reflection on the power dynamics between genders and a stark reminder of the importance of women’s autonomy. Atwood’s skillful storytelling and her ability to create a dystopian world that feels all too real make this book a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of gender, power, and resistance.
Prepare to be captivated by this powerful women’s tale that will leave you questioning the very foundations of society and the role of women within it.
I Am Malala
by Malala Yousafzai
I Am Malala is an extraordinary memoir that tells the inspiring story of Malala Yousafzai, a young Pakistani girl who defied the Taliban and fought for girls’ education. This book on powerful women is a testament to the indomitable spirit of one girl who dared to speak out and stand up for what she believed in.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
by Rebecca Skloot
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks is a captivating book about a remarkable and extraordinary woman. It delves into the story of Henrietta Lacks, an African-American woman whose cells were unknowingly taken without her consent and used for groundbreaking medical research. This book is not just a biography, but a tribute to the power and resilience of women like Henrietta, whose contributions have often been overlooked or forgotten.
Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China
by Jung Chang
Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China is an extraordinary book that delves into the mesmerizing lives of three remarkable women in China. This powerful and captivating memoir takes us on a journey through the tumultuous history of the country, while simultaneously shining a spotlight on the strength, resilience, and courage of these three individuals.
Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide
by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn
Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide is an enlightening and empowering book about the resilience and strength of women across the globe. Co-authored by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn, this powerful book sheds light on the issues faced by women in developing countries and the incredible potential they hold.
The Diary of a Young Girl
by Anne Frank
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank is a remarkable book about strong and influential women. This iconic diary, written by a young Jewish girl during the Holocaust, offers a unique and intimate perspective on the lives of those affected by the Nazi regime. Anne Frank’s diary serves as a testament to the resilience and courage of powerful women in the face of unimaginable adversity.
The Color Purple
by Alice Walker
The Color Purple by Alice Walker is a captivating and empowering novel that celebrates the strength and resilience of remarkable women. Set in rural Georgia during the early 1900s, this book tells the story of Celie, a young African American woman who endures unimaginable hardships and abuse.
Through Celie’s intimate and heartfelt letters, we witness her transformation from a voiceless and oppressed individual into a fiercely independent and empowered woman. The Color Purple beautifully explores the complexities of race, gender, and sexuality, while highlighting the importance of sisterhood and self-discovery.
This powerful tale is not only a book about powerful women, but also a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within each of us. Alice Walker’s eloquent prose and her ability to capture the essence of human resilience make The Color Purple a truly unforgettable read. Prepare to be inspired by this extraordinary story of survival, love, and triumph.
The Help
by Kathryn Stockett
The Help, written by Kathryn Stockett, is a captivating and empowering tale that revolves around a group of courageous and influential women. Set in 1960s Mississippi, this remarkable novel brings to life the struggles and triumphs of these strong-willed individuals.
The Help is not just another book about powerful women; it is a testament to the strength, resilience, and determination of the female spirit. Through the eyes of three extraordinary women, Stockett explores the complex and intertwined lives of African-American maids and their white employers.
Amidst a backdrop of racial tension and social injustices, these women find solace and inspiration in one another. They form an unlikely alliance, defying societal norms and risking everything to share their stories and fight for justice.
Stockett’s vivid and evocative storytelling takes readers on a journey that exposes the harsh realities of segregation and discrimination. It delves into the depths of friendship, loyalty, and the unbreakable bonds that can be forged in the face of adversity.
This powerful women book serves as a reminder that change starts with a single voice and that the courage to stand up for what is right can have a profound impact on society. The Help is a thought-provoking and heartwarming novel that celebrates the strength and resilience of women in the face of adversity.
The Glass Castle
by Jeannette Walls
The Glass Castle is a captivating memoir that shines a spotlight on the indomitable strength and resilience of extraordinary women. Jeannette Walls, the author, takes us on a remarkable journey through her turbulent childhood, where she and her siblings navigate a chaotic upbringing with their unconventional and fierce mother. This spellbinding story illuminates the unbreakable bonds of family and showcases the incredible power and fortitude that women possess. Prepare to be inspired by this extraordinary tale of determination, love, and the unyielding spirit of powerful women.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
by Stieg Larsson
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson is a captivating book about formidable women. Set in Sweden, this thrilling novel introduces readers to Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant but enigmatic hacker with a troubled past. Blomkvist, an investigative journalist, finds himself entangled in a complex web of secrets and corruption when he is hired to solve a decades-old disappearance case. As the two join forces, their relentless pursuit of the truth uncovers a shocking conspiracy that reaches the highest echelons of power.
The Hunger Games
by Suzanne Collins
The Hunger Games, written by Suzanne Collins, is a book on formidable heroines who defy the odds and challenge a tyrannical regime. Set in the dystopian nation of Panem, the story follows Katniss Everdeen, a resourceful and resilient young woman who volunteers to compete in the Hunger Games – a brutal televised event where teenagers fight to the death.
This powerful women book explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and rebellion, as Katniss navigates through a world where the government oppresses its citizens and controls every aspect of their lives. She becomes a symbol of hope and defiance, inspiring others to rise up against the oppressive regime.
The Hunger Games is a thrilling and thought-provoking novel that showcases the strength, courage, and determination of its female protagonist, highlighting the resilience and power that women possess in the face of adversity. It is a captivating tale that will leave readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to discover what happens next in this book about formidable heroines.
The Joy Luck Club
by Amy Tan
The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan is a captivating book about formidable women who navigate the complexities of love, family, and cultural identity. Set in San Francisco, the novel weaves together the stories of four Chinese immigrant mothers and their American-born daughters, revealing the deep bonds that tie them together.
The Bell Jar
by Sylvia Plath
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is a captivating novel that delves into the complex world of women’s power and resilience. Plath, a literary genius, crafted a masterpiece that explores the journey of a young woman navigating through the challenges of identity, society’s expectations, and mental health.
The Secret Life of Bees
by Sue Monk Kidd
The Secret Life of Bees is an incredibly inspiring and captivating book about a group of strong and resilient women who defy societal expectations and find their own power. Set in the 1960s in South Carolina, this novel explores themes of race, family, and female empowerment.
The Power
by Naomi Alderman
The Power by Naomi Alderman is an electrifying book about women who possess an extraordinary power that shakes the foundations of society. This groundbreaking novel explores a world where women, previously marginalized and oppressed, suddenly have the ability to generate electric shocks through their bodies. These women, who have now become the dominant force, challenge the existing power structures and upend the traditional gender dynamics.
With a captivating narrative and thought-provoking themes, The Power presents an enthralling vision of a society turned upside down. Alderman skillfully examines the consequences of this newfound power, delving into the complex dynamics of gender, politics, and religion. In this gripping tale, the author explores the corruption, violence, and struggle that arise when power falls into the hands of those who were once powerless.
The Power is a book on powerful women that will leave you questioning the very nature of power itself. Through its compelling characters and gripping storyline, Alderman brings to life a world where the traditional roles of men and women are drastically reversed. This powerful women book challenges societal norms and prompts us to reflect on the dynamics of power, gender, and the possibilities of a different world.
The Book of Unknown Americans
by Cristina Henríquez
The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henríquez is a captivating ode to the strength and resilience of extraordinary women. This remarkable novel, often referred to as a powerful women book, tells the stories of several families who have immigrated to the United States from various Latin American countries.
The Girl on the Train
by Paula Hawkins
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping thriller that takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the lives of three complex, dynamic women. This captivating book delves into the lives of these powerful female characters, exploring their secrets, desires, and the disturbing events that intertwine their lives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 books about powerful women are essential reads for anyone seeking inspiration and empowerment. From real-life heroines to fictional characters, these books capture the strength, resilience, and determination of women who have defied societal norms and shattered glass ceilings. Whether you’re looking for historical accounts, memoirs, or works of fiction, these books offer a diverse range of perspectives and stories that will leave you feeling inspired and motivated. Dive into these pages and be prepared to be moved by the incredible journeys and accomplishments of these remarkable women.