Books that Empower Women

By Angela Cene

In dedication to Women’s History month I want to share some books that empower women, and support female authors. However, for younger girls and generations they need to see females like them who take control and do not depend on others in order to inspire them. Any of these books would be a great gift for yourselves or anyone you want to lift up! 

1. “Girl in Pieces” by Kathleen Glasgow 

This book, “Girl in Pieces” written by Kathleen Glasgow is a real and raw story where the main character; a girl, has everything taken from her in a world that gives her nothing and after this journey she is able to put herself back together. I think that this is a good example of women empowerment, watching a woman going through something that takes all the power out of her and she then takes her power back in order to put herself back together hence the title that shows this as well. 

TW: sh, depression

2. “Women don’t owe you pretty” by Florence Given

The next book I want to share is “Women don’t Owe You Pretty” by Florence Given, a piece that goes against the patriarchy and the gender roles and narratives that women are expected to follow. However, Given breaks that cycle in this writing which I find very empowering and think every woman should read. Given shows the reader that they are able to be in love with themselves and the power that comes with that in this world. Given also emphasizes the stereotypes set for women and how we owe men nothing, especially being pretty. 

3. “In Every Mirror She’s Black” by Lolá Ákínmádé Åkerström 

The third book I found that empowers women is “In Every Mirror She’s Black” by Lolá Ákínmádé Åkerström which tells a story of three Black women in America and Sweden and the fight they have to put as their worth is being ignored, this book shows the struggle not only for women but also women of color which I think is very important to include in this article and recommendations. Not only does Åkerström talk about the struggles women face, but also touches on racism and how they both can deeply affect individuals.

4. “When Women Were Dragons” by Kelly Barnhill 

The last book I want to talk about is “When Women Were Dragons” by Kelly Barnhill, besides the title this book is where women take control from all the trauma they have faced and turn into dragons. Dragons in this book are used to show a woman’s place in the world and the troubles they face, but they take power into their own hands in order to see the change they deserve. In this book we see wives, mothers and thousands of women taking control of their path which shows girls and other women that they are able to do the same even if men perceive them as otherwise in various parts of society.