Celebrate Women’s History Month with These 10 Inspiring Reads
By: Valeria Ramos
March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the many achievements of women throughout history. One of the best ways to do so is by reading books that offer a glimpse into the lives and accomplishments of extraordinary women. Here are ten must-read books for Women’s History Month, each offering a unique perspective on the experiences of women.
From Kate Moore’s “The Radium Girls” to Maxine Hong Kingston’s “The Woman Warrior,” these books provide an opportunity to learn about the achievements of women from all walks of life, and to celebrate their incredible legacies.
So, without further ado, let’s dive in and discover the inspiring stories of these incredible women.
10 Books to Read for Women’s History Month 2023
The Radium Girls
This gripping true story follows the lives of the women who painted luminous watch dials with radioactive paint in the early 1900s.
Despite being told the paint was safe, many of the women developed deadly illnesses, and their fight for justice changed workplace safety forever.
The Glass Castle
This memoir tells the incredible story of Walls’ upbringing in a dysfunctional but fascinating family led by her charismatic, erratic, and often neglectful parents.
Despite the challenges, Walls perseveres and finds her way to a successful career in journalism.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Maya Angelou’s powerful memoir explores themes of race, identity, and trauma. Angelou’s vivid prose brings to life her experiences growing up as a Black girl in the American South, including her struggles with sexual abuse and racism.
Through it all, Angelou’s resilient spirit shines through, making this book an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit.
Hidden Figures
Now an award-winning film, this book highlights the contributions of Black women mathematicians to the space race, who worked behind the scenes to help put the first American in orbit.
Shetterly’s book offers a new perspective on this pivotal moment in American history.
The Woman Warrior
This memoir blends myth, memory, and history to tell the story of Kingston’s childhood in a Chinese immigrant family.
She grapples with questions of identity, language, and gender as she navigates the complexities of growing up between two cultures.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Henrietta Lacks’ cancer cells were used without her consent to make major scientific advancements, leading to medical breakthroughs and unimaginable profits for the pharmaceutical industry.
Skloot’s book examines the ethics of medical research and the legacy of Henrietta Lacks’ contribution to science.
Code Girls
During World War II, women played a critical role in code-breaking efforts that helped to turn the tide of the war.
This book profiles the women who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, breaking codes and keeping secrets that would change the course of history.
The Diary of Anne Frank
This iconic diary chronicles the life of Anne Frank, a young Jewish girl who went into hiding with her family during the Holocaust.
Her diary is a powerful reminder of the horrors of war and the resilience of the human spirit.
Headstrong
From Marie Curie to Rosalind Franklin, Swaby’s book shines a light on the often-overlooked accomplishments of women in these fields and inspires readers to pursue their own passions in science and beyond.
Wild Swans
This family memoir traces the lives of three generations of women in Chang’s family, from her grandmother’s experiences as a concubine to her mother’s involvement in the Communist revolution.
Through the eyes of these women, Chang offers a unique perspective on Chinese history.
Celebrating Women’s History Month
During Women’s History Month (and year-round), it’s important to remember that the stories of women throughout history deserve to be celebrated and shared all year round.
These 10 non-fiction books offer a glimpse into the lives and accomplishments of extraordinary women, from activists to scientists, writers to astronauts.
Whether you’re looking to learn more about the struggles and triumphs of women’s history or to be inspired by the stories of women who have overcome incredible obstacles to achieve their dreams, these books are a great place to start.
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