International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8th every year. This day celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, while also highlighting the ongoing fight for gender equality. What better way to honor this day than by reading books by and about women? In this post, we will explore some of the best books to read in celebration of Women’s Day.
“The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood
Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale” is a dystopian novel that has become a classic feminist text. Set in the near future, the story follows Offred, a woman who is forced to become a “handmaid” in a society that has stripped women of their rights and freedoms. The novel explores themes of gender inequality, reproductive rights, and the dangers of totalitarianism. It is a powerful and thought-provoking read that is a must for anyone interested in feminist literature.
“Bad Feminist” by Roxane Gay
“Bad Feminist” is a collection of essays by Roxane Gay that explores what it means to be a feminist in today’s world. Gay tackles a wide range of topics, from pop culture to politics, and offers a nuanced and intersectional perspective on issues of race, gender, and sexuality. Her writing is insightful, honest, and often humorous, making this book an accessible and engaging read.
“Becoming” by Michelle Obama
“Becoming” is the memoir of former First Lady Michelle Obama. In the book, Obama reflects on her upbringing, her time in the White House, and the challenges she faced as a woman of color in the public eye. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and grace, and offers a glimpse into the life of one of the most inspiring women of our time.
“The Color Purple” by Alice Walker
“The Color Purple” is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker that tells the story of Celie, a black woman living in the rural South in the early 20th century. The novel explores themes of racism, sexism, and domestic violence, and celebrates the strength and resilience of black women. It is a powerful and moving read that has become a classic of feminist literature.
“The Second Sex” by Simone de Beauvoir
“The Second Sex” is a landmark work of feminist theory by Simone de Beauvoir. Published in 1949, the book is a pioneering exploration of the ways in which women have been oppressed throughout history. De Beauvoir argues that women have been defined as the “other” in relation to men, and that this has led to their subjugation and inequality. Her writing is incisive and thought-provoking, and her ideas continue to shape feminist thought to this day.
“We Should All Be Feminists” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
“We Should All Be Feminists” is a short, powerful essay by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie that argues for the importance of feminism in today’s world. Drawing on her own experiences as a woman and a writer, Adichie makes a compelling case for the need to dismantle patriarchal systems and create a more just and equal society. Her writing is clear and accessible, and this book is a great introduction to feminist ideas for anyone new to the subject.
“The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath
“The Bell Jar” is a semi-autobiographical novel by Sylvia Plath that explores the mental breakdown of a young woman named Esther Greenwood. The book offers a powerful critique of the societal pressures placed on women in the 1950s, and the ways in which these pressures can lead to mental illness. Plath’s writing is raw and unflinching, and her depiction of Esther’s descent into depression and suicidal thoughts is both haunting and poignant. “The Bell Jar” is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of mental health and feminism.
“Half the Sky” by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn
“Half the Sky” is a book by husband-and-wife team Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn that explores the challenges faced by women in the developing world. The book covers a wide range of issues, from sex trafficking to maternal mortality, and offers a compelling call to action for readers to get involved in the fight for gender equality. “Half the Sky” is a powerful and inspiring book that will leave readers feeling both informed and motivated.
“The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot
“The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” is a nonfiction book by Rebecca Skloot that tells the story of a woman whose cancer cells were taken without her knowledge or consent and used for medical research. Henrietta Lacks’ cells, known as HeLa cells, have been instrumental in developing treatments for a wide range of diseases, but her story raises important questions about medical ethics and the exploitation of marginalized communities. Skloot’s writing is both informative and engaging, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of race, gender, and medicine.
“Sister Outsider” by Audre Lorde
“Sister Outsider” is a collection of essays and speeches by black lesbian feminist writer Audre Lorde. The book covers a wide range of topics, from racism to homophobia to sexism, and offers a powerful critique of the ways in which these systems of oppression intersect. Lorde’s writing is both lyrical and incisive, and her ideas continue to be influential in contemporary feminist thought.
In conclusion, these are just a few of the many great books by and about women that are worth reading in celebration of Women’s Day. These books offer a diverse range of perspectives on issues of gender, race, class, and sexuality, and serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality. Whether you are looking for fiction, nonfiction, memoir, or theory, there is a book on this list that is sure to inspire, challenge, and enlighten you. So, pick up one of these books today and join the celebration of women’s achievements and ongoing struggles.