If you’re a fan of strong female characters, then you’re in for a treat! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about strong female characters that are sure to captivate and inspire you. From fierce warriors to brilliant scientists, these books showcase the power and resilience of women in all their glory. So, grab a cup of tea, snuggle up with a cozy blanket, and get ready to dive into these empowering stories. Whether you’re looking for a book on strong female characters to add to your collection or searching for a gift for a fellow bookworm, we’ve got you covered.
Contents
- 1 The Handmaid’s Tale
- 2 Educated
- 3 Circe
- 4 Little Fires Everywhere
- 5 The Girl on the Train
- 6 The Hate U Give
- 7 Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine
- 8 Big Little Lies
- 9 The Nightingale
- 10 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
- 11 The Help
- 12 The Hunger Games
- 13 Gone Girl
- 14 The Color Purple
- 15 The Secret Life of Bees
- 16 The Bell Jar
- 17 Pride and Prejudice
- 18 To Kill a Mockingbird
- 19 Jane Eyre
- 20 Frankenstein
- 21 Conclusion
The Handmaid’s Tale
by Margaret Atwood
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood is a groundbreaking dystopian novel that has captivated readers worldwide. This masterpiece is not just another book about strong female characters, but a chilling depiction of a society where women are stripped of their rights and reduced to mere vessels for procreation.
Educated
by Tara Westover
Educated by Tara Westover is an extraordinary memoir that delves into the life of a courageous and resilient woman. Set in rural Idaho, this captivating book about strong female characters takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Circe
by Madeline Miller
Circe by Madeline Miller:
Are you looking for a book on strong female characters that will transport you to a world of ancient gods and mythical creatures? Look no further than Madeline Miller’s extraordinary novel, Circe. This breathtaking tale is a powerful exploration of a strong-willed woman who defies the expectations placed upon her and finds her own path.
Little Fires Everywhere
by Celeste Ng
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng is a captivating book that revolves around the lives of resilient and empowered women. This poignant novel delves into the intricate relationships and secrets that bind a group of strong-willed women together in a small suburban community.
The Girl on the Train
by Paula Hawkins
Introducing a thrilling rollercoaster ride of suspense and deception, The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and compelling narratives. This gripping novel takes the reader on a journey through the eyes of Rachel, an unreliable narrator who becomes entangled in a web of mystery and danger.
Set in the bustling suburbs of London, the story revolves around Rachel, a troubled woman who finds solace in observing the lives of others during her daily train commute. As she becomes fixated on a seemingly perfect couple she glimpses from her window, Rachel unwittingly becomes entangled in their lives when she witnesses something shocking.
With her own troubled past and a clouded memory, Rachel is forced to grapple with her own sanity as she becomes a key witness in a mysterious disappearance. As the plot thickens, the reader is taken on a twisty journey of secrets, lies, and unexpected revelations.
What sets this book apart is its strong female characters who are complex, flawed, and relatable. Each woman in the story has her own demons to face and battles to fight, making this book a powerful exploration of the strength and resilience of women.
Hawkins’ writing style is fast-paced and engrossing, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat from start to finish. The narrative is expertly crafted, with multiple perspectives and timelines, adding layers of intrigue and suspense.
If you’re looking for a book about strong female characters, look no further than The Girl on the Train. With its gripping plot, complex characters, and spine-tingling suspense, this novel is a true page-turner that will leave you breathless until the very last page.
The Hate U Give
by Angie Thomas
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a captivating book about strong female characters that will leave you breathless. This powerful novel takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions as it tackles the timely and important issues of racial injustice and police brutality.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine
by Gail Honeyman
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is an extraordinary book about strong female characters. It introduces us to Eleanor Oliphant, a socially awkward and quirky loner who leads a seemingly ordinary life. However, beneath her unconventional exterior lies an incredible strength and resilience.
Eleanor’s routine existence takes an unexpected turn when she becomes infatuated with a local musician, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. As the layers of her past are peeled away, we witness the emergence of a truly remarkable woman.
Gail Honeyman’s novel beautifully captures the complexities of human connection and the power of friendship. Through Eleanor’s unique perspective, readers are reminded that strength can come in many forms, and that even the most unconventional individuals can have a profound impact on the lives of those around them.
If you’re looking for a book on strong female characters, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is a must-read. It will captivate you with its authentic portrayal of a woman finding her voice and embracing her true self.
Big Little Lies
by Liane Moriarty
Big Little Lies is an enthralling tale of deception, secrets, and the power of sisterhood. In this captivating novel by Liane Moriarty, readers are introduced to a seemingly idyllic coastal town where a group of women navigate the complexities of motherhood, marriage, and friendships.
This book is a celebration of strong female characters, showcasing the dynamic lives of three women who come together in unexpected ways. Madeline, Celeste, and Jane are all dealing with their own personal struggles, but they soon realize that their lives are more intertwined than they could have ever imagined.
As the story unfolds, the reader is drawn into a web of lies and deceit, all set against the backdrop of a community that prides itself on perfection. Moriarty skillfully weaves together multiple perspectives, giving each character a unique voice and allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in their world.
With its compelling storyline and well-developed characters, Big Little Lies is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a book about strong female characters. Moriarty’s writing is both thought-provoking and entertaining, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a captivating read.
So, if you’re in the mood for a book that explores the complexities of female relationships, delves into the dark underbelly of a seemingly perfect community, and celebrates the strength and resilience of women, then Big Little Lies is the perfect choice for you.
The Nightingale
by Kristin Hannah
The Nightingale is an extraordinary novel that celebrates the indomitable spirit of women in the face of adversity. Set during World War II, this captivating story shines a light on the incredible strength and resilience of its female protagonists.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
by Stieg Larsson
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson is a thrilling and gripping novel that introduces readers to a world of mystery, suspense, and intrigue. This book is not just your average crime fiction, but a powerful exploration of strong and empowered female characters.
Set in Sweden, the story follows Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist who is hired to investigate a decades-old disappearance of a young girl from a wealthy family. As he delves deeper into the case, he teams up with Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant and enigmatic hacker with a troubled past. Together, they uncover a web of corruption, conspiracy, and violence that reaches into the highest levels of society.
Lisbeth Salander is a truly unforgettable character who defies all stereotypes. She is fierce, intelligent, and unapologetically herself. With her distinct appearance, including her iconic dragon tattoo, she challenges societal norms and fights against injustice. Lisbeth is a true symbol of empowerment and resilience, inspiring readers around the world.
In this book about strong female characters, Stieg Larsson weaves a complex narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The plot is full of unexpected twists and turns, making it impossible to put the book down. Larsson’s writing is captivating, and his attention to detail brings the story to life in a way that is both chilling and thought-provoking.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is not just a crime novel, but a powerful exploration of society, gender dynamics, and the strength of the human spirit. It challenges conventional notions of femininity and showcases the power of resilience, intelligence, and determination. If you’re looking for a book that celebrates strong female characters and keeps you hooked from beginning to end, then this is an absolute must-read.
The Help
by Kathryn Stockett
The Help by Kathryn Stockett is an empowering tale that shines a light on the strength and resilience of women. Set in the racially divided 1960s Mississippi, this remarkable book delves into the lives of three brave women who dare to challenge the status quo.
Meet Aibileen, Minny, and Skeeter – three women from different backgrounds who come together to challenge the oppressive society they live in. Aibileen, a wise and nurturing African-American maid, has spent her life caring for white children, while Minny, a sassy and outspoken maid, struggles to find her voice amidst the prejudice and discrimination.
Then there’s Skeeter, a young aspiring writer who defies societal expectations and risks her reputation to tell the untold stories of maids in Mississippi. Together, these women embark on a journey of friendship, courage, and defiance, as they navigate the complexities of the Civil Rights Movement.
Through their extraordinary stories, The Help brings to life the struggles and triumphs of these remarkable women, painting a vivid picture of a time and place where women were often marginalized and oppressed. It is a book filled with heart, hope, and the indomitable spirit of strong female characters.
So, if you’re looking for a book that celebrates the power and resilience of women, The Help is a must-read. Dive into this captivating story and be inspired by the courage and determination of these strong female characters as they challenge the world around them.
The Hunger Games
by Suzanne Collins
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a thrilling dystopian novel that showcases the power and resilience of its formidable female protagonist. Set in a dark and oppressive future, this book immerses readers in a world where strong, independent young women defy expectations and challenge the status quo. With its gripping plot and vividly drawn characters, The Hunger Games is a must-read for anyone seeking a book that celebrates the strength and tenacity of female heroines.
Gone Girl
by Gillian Flynn
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn is a thrilling roller coaster ride of a novel that will leave you breathless. This gripping book about audacious and formidable women will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
The Color Purple
by Alice Walker
The Color Purple by Alice Walker is a groundbreaking novel that celebrates the resilience and empowerment of women. This literary gem is a powerful portrayal of female strength, resilience, and triumph in the face of adversity. It tells the story of Celie, a young African-American woman living in rural Georgia in the early 20th century, who endures unimaginable hardships and abuse, but ultimately finds her voice and discovers the true power within herself. Through the compelling narratives of Celie and other remarkable women, Walker explores themes of sisterhood, identity, love, and the transformative power of self-empowerment. This awe-inspiring book on strong female characters is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and a profound understanding of the indomitable spirit of women.
The Secret Life of Bees
by Sue Monk Kidd
The Secret Life of Bees is an enchanting tale that delves into the lives of extraordinary women, painting a vivid portrait of their strength, resilience, and determination. Set against the backdrop of 1960s South Carolina, this remarkable novel explores the transformative power of love and sisterhood.
The Bell Jar
by Sylvia Plath
The Bell Jar is an extraordinary masterpiece by Sylvia Plath that delves into the mind of a young woman struggling with her identity and society’s expectations. This gem of a novel is a must-read for anyone looking to explore the depths of resilient female protagonists. Plath’s vivid and poetic writing transports readers into the turbulent world of Esther Greenwood, a talented and ambitious young woman whose dreams are overshadowed by the suffocating pressures of the 1950s. Through Esther’s powerful voice, Plath exposes the challenges faced by women in a society that often stifles their potential. The Bell Jar is an empowering and unforgettable journey that highlights the strength and resilience of female characters, making it a standout among books about tenacious women.
Pride and Prejudice
by Jane Austen
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is a remarkable book about resilient and empowering women who challenge societal norms and expectations. This captivating novel is filled with a vibrant cast of determined and influential female characters who defy the conventions of their time.
To Kill a Mockingbird
by Harper Lee
To Kill a Mockingbird is a timeless classic that captivates readers with its powerful portrayal of courageous and resilient women. Set in the 1930s in a small Southern town, this captivating novel explores themes of racial injustice, morality, and the strength of female characters.
Through the eyes of Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in a racially divided community, readers witness the remarkable strength and resilience of women like her mother, Miss Maudie, and Calpurnia. These women challenge the norms of society, breaking free from the constraints placed upon them and standing up for what is right.
Scout’s journey is deeply influenced by her strong-willed and unconventional aunt, Miss Alexandra, who defies societal expectations and teaches Scout the importance of independence and integrity. As Scout navigates the complexities of a racially charged trial, she learns valuable lessons about empathy, compassion, and the power of standing up for justice.
Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird is not just a book about strong female characters; it is a celebration of their unwavering spirit and the impact they can make in a world that often tries to silence them. It serves as a reminder that strength comes in various forms and that women have the power to shape their own destinies and challenge the status quo.
Jane Eyre
by Charlotte Brontë
Jane Eyre is a captivating masterpiece by Charlotte Brontë, a classic novel that shines a spotlight on empowered women. This remarkable literary work tells the story of a courageous and resilient young woman who defies societal norms and triumphs over adversity. As you immerse yourself in the pages of this inspiring book, you will witness the journey of Jane Eyre, a fearless and independent protagonist who refuses to be confined by the expectations of her time. Brontë’s brilliant portrayal of Jane’s strength, intelligence, and unwavering spirit will leave you in awe, reminding us all of the power and resilience that lies within each of us. So, if you’re seeking a compelling and thought-provoking read that celebrates strong-willed and determined female characters, Jane Eyre is the perfect choice for you.
Frankenstein
by Mary Shelley
Frankenstein is a captivating tale, penned by Mary Shelley, that delves into the realm of ambition, creation, and the power of the human spirit. This masterpiece is not just another book on strong female characters; it is a mesmerizing narrative that explores the depths of human nature and the consequences of playing god.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 books about strong female characters are essential reads for anyone looking to be inspired by powerful and resilient women. From classic tales to contemporary stories, these books celebrate the strength, intelligence, and determination of women from all walks of life. Whether you’re seeking adventure, empowerment, or simply a story that will leave a lasting impact, these books have it all. So, grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and delve into these captivating narratives that will transport you into the worlds of these incredible female protagonists.