Happy International Women's Day! To commemorate this special day, I plan on watching Captain Marvel this weekend (as should you) and posting this list of books I have read that have empowered me as a woman.
I hope you read at least one of these in your lifetime.
1. I Am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai
Malala's near-fatal fight for education is admirable. Reading this, I was able to understand how privileged I am to be able to receive an education as a young woman. Malala is a hero, and I will continue to support her cause.
2. In the Country We Love: My Family Divided by Diane Guerrero
This autobiography by Diane Guerrero was such a fantastic read. From dealing with the deportation of her family to her suicide attempts, it was such a personal and insightful look into her life. Her discussions about immigration and mental health are important for every community, not just the feminist community.
3. Feminism: Reinventing the F-Word by Nadia Abushanab Higgins
This is a very short book, but it is jam-packed with information. It talks about the history of feminist movements and explains terms to those who are not familiar with feminism. I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to learn more about what feminism is and where it came from, as well as why we need it.
4. Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly
After watching the movie adaptation of this book, I immediately picked it up. It is such a great story for anyone who wants to know what it was like for these smart, black women to make their mark in history. They are so inspirational and worthy of being looked up to.
5. Because I Was a Girl: True Stories for Girls of All Ages curated by Melissa de la Cruz
This is an incredible collection of short narratives by women of all backgrounds, some you might recognize, some you might not. I found it so empowering reading about the stories of struggle, survival, and success, all from amazing women. I definitely recommend it.
6. Difficult Women by Roxane Gay
This is my most recent read and my first from the wonderful Roxane Gay. I have been meaning to pick up something from her, and I thought this month was appropriate to do so. This is a collection of short stories about women dealing with things women deal with, from the darkest corners of our world to the country clubs of gated-communities. Roxane Gay never shies away from the truth, and her metaphors for the trials of women all over the world are truly incredible.
These are just a few of the books out there written by women that narrate the female-experience. They are all worthy of support, so I suggest you pick one up.
Happy Women's History Month! And Happy International Women's Day!
Love, Ru.
Instagram: @ru.reads