There are some books you read and put down and never think of again. There are others books you can re-read a hundred times and find something new and interesting that makes you love it even more. With so many books to choose from, it can end up being frustrating when you start a book that you think you will love only to be disappointed halfway through. Are you having trouble trying to find those great books for women? Then you'll want to add this must-read books to your reading list.
20 Must-Read Books for Women
American Wife, Curtis Sittenfeld
For anyone who is looking to broaden their history knowledge, this could be a great read for you. Based primarily on the life of Laura Bush, this novel dives into how a liberal primary school teacher became the wife of George W. Bush.
Blonde, Joyce Carol Oates
Oates is known for her ability to write about difficult subjects and this book definitely highlights her abilities. The book is haunting and sad as it reveals the fictional life of Marilyn Monroe.
Gone with the Wind. Margaret Mitchell
Most women have heard of this book but not many have actual sat done to read, especially since there is a film based on it. The book highlights the ways of the Old South in a time when the rest of the country was progressing. It gives you an inside look at American history and is worth a read.
Frankenstein, Mary Shelley
Shelley is credited for inventing the science fiction genre, so if that's your go-to genre, then this is the book for you. This horror story is unlike any of the Frankenstein movies you may have seen and is a good read.
The Awakening, Kate Chopin
This book was published in 1899, a time when women's rights were getting attention. The book reveals many of the restrictions women were faced with and is a great read for those who identify themselves as a feminist.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou is known for her autobiographical style of writing. This books gives you another glimpse into her fascinating life and is definitely one of the must-read books for women.
The Handmaid's Tale, Margaret Atwood
While woman’s rights have come a long way, this book reveals how easily it can all be turned around again. The book follows the life of a woman who is forced into slavery and how she struggles to escape. This is one book that will remind all women to stand up for themselves that you won't want to put down.
Where'd You Go, Bernadette? Maria Semple
This is a book for all the mom's out there they struggle trying to balance it all. If you have a daughter it's worth sharing with her as well. The will keep you interested and is filled with humor, entertainment, and real emotions.
How Will You Measure Your Life? Clayton M. Christensen
If you're a woman who is trying to find more meaning in your life, then this is the book you want to pick up. Whether you are considering a career change or just want to feel more fulfilled, the theories explained in this book will guide you to how you want to live your life.
Family Happiness, Laurie Colwin
Women often give more to those around them than they do for themselves and this book focuses on this issue women often have. It tells the story of the picture-perfect wife and mother who secretly is having an affair. The story will instantly captivate you at beginning.
Eat, Pray, Love, Elizabeth Gilbert
If you are going through a break up, this is one of the must-read books for women you want to pick up. You will relate to the heartbreak and feel empowered to turn things around after ending a long-term relationship.
Tiny Beautiful Things, Cheryl Strayed
Cheryl Strayed is best known for her memoir Wild, but before she became famous, she wrote an advice column. This book is a collection of these columns that covers everything from love and grief to ambition and more.
Sex and the City, Candace Bushnell
Every woman can relate and fantasize about living the single life in New York City and this book captures it all. The good, the bad, and the uncomfortable Candace Bushnell experience will entice you and make you daydream about city life.
The Best of Everything, Rona Jaffe
If you are a twenty-something woman, then this book will interest you. It is similar to Sex and the City in the sense that it follows a group of twenty-something women who are trying to move up in their careers and have casual relationships on their own terms.
Bad Feminist, Roxane Gay
This book is for all the women who want to be feminist but who also still enjoy some not so feminist things. The book is humorous and educational, which makes it a must-read for any women who want to gain a better understanding of feminism.
Girl Interrupted, Susanna Kaysen
This book will give you a new perspective on mental illness. Based on Susanna Kaysen’s life and the time she spent in a mental hospital, the book is filled with intriguing characters that any women could relate to.
Drink, Ann Dowsett Johnston
Why is this on our list of must-read books for women? It masterfully combines raw confessions and research to reveal the truth behind why more and more women are turning to alcohol. It shines a light on a dangerous behavior that has been normalized over the recent decades and the consequences of it.
Bossypants, Tina Fey
This book has a little bit of everything. While it is composed of stories of Fey, from childhood on, it is relatable, inspiring and humorous. This is one read that will make you believe that hard work, self-confidence and a good sense of humor can take you where ever you want to go.
Ella Enchanted, Gail Carson Levine
This book will remind you that you don't need a knight in shining armor to come rescue you. Filled with adventure, with a modern twist on the classic Cinderella story, this is one book all women should read when they need a reminder that they are capable of many things.
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