20 Must-Read Books by Women Authors for Women’s History Month

March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the incredible contributions of women throughout history. And what better way to honor this month than by diving into books penned by female authors? From gripping fiction to enlightening memoirs, here’s a roundup of must-read titles to inspire, educate, and entertain.

Fiction Greats: Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere delves into family dramas and societal expectations with the finesse of a master storyteller. Meanwhile, Toni Morrison’s Jazz is a deeply moving exploration of love and injustice. And for a touch of romance, Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice remains a timeless classic.

Nonfiction Powerhouses: Michelle Obama’s memoir, Becoming, offers a heartfelt glimpse into her life and experiences as First Lady. Rebecca Solnit’s Men Explain Things to Me humorously yet sharply critiques gendered communication dynamics, while Malala Yousafzai’s I Am Malala is an extraordinary firsthand account of bravery in the face of oppression.

Science Fiction and Fantasy Wonders: Ursula K. Le Guin’s groundbreaking The Left Hand of Darkness examines gender and society on an icy, alien world. Octavia E. Butler’s Kindred blends time travel with a poignant look at the horrors of slavery, and Charlie Jane Anders’ All the Birds in the Sky masterfully mixes romance, magic, and tech warfare.

Classics that Resonate: Mary Shelley’s iconic Frankenstein, written in a single weekend, redefined horror and is still a must-read. Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God remains a cornerstone of African American literature, while Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women continues to charm readers with its heartfelt portrayal of sisterhood and resilience.

More Gems to Explore: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s The Thing Around Your Neck is a collection of short stories that beautifully captures the ties between African and American cultures. Edwidge Danticat’s Breath, Eyes, Memory weaves a haunting tale of family secrets and political violence. And Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale remains a chillingly relevant dystopian masterpiece.

Whether you’re into tales of wilderness survival like Kristin Hannah’s The Great Alone, or graphic memoirs like Thi Bui’s The Best We Could Do, Women’s History Month is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the voices of women authors who have shaped literature and inspired generations.