Words of Wisdom: 5 Books Every Woman Needs Right Now

There have been many mixed emotions throughout the world over the past few days in the wake of the election results in the US. Several women worldwide have voiced their fear and discouragement regarding the next few years ahead under a new United States President. During times like these, it is important to continue on the right path and embrace as many uplifting messages as possible. For this reason, we have selected several fantastic reads by exceptional women for you to enjoy at this time. 

1. When I Dare to Be Powerful by Audre Lorde

This collection of essays and speeches by poet and activist Audre Lorde explores the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. Lorde’s writing emphasizes the importance of women, particularly women of color, embracing their voices and power in the face of systemic oppression. 

2. The Second Sex by Simone de Beauvoir

This iconic piece of work is a philosophical analysis of the treatment of women throughout history, where de Beauvoir examines the cultural and biological roots of women’s oppression. Her examination of gender roles has profoundly influenced feminist theory, laying the groundwork for understanding gender inequality.

3. Men Explain Things to Me by Rebecca Solnit

Rebecca Solnit delves into the ways women are often dismissed and underestimated by men, highlighting experiences of "mansplaining" and broader societal power imbalances, in this book. Solnit connects these everyday interactions to systemic issues like violence against women and unequal treatment, using her insight to expose the gendered nature of knowledge and authority.

4. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou’s powerful autobiography chronicles her early life, detailing the trauma and racial discrimination she endured while growing up in the segregated South. Despite the hardships, Angelou’s story is also one of resilience and strength, as she finds her voice through writing and poetry. 

5. Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay

Roxane Gay blends personal anecdotes with cultural criticism to explore what it means to be a feminist in today’s world. Gay discusses issues such as race, privilege, pop culture, and the complexities of being a feminist who enjoys things that might contradict feminist ideals. Her humor and honesty challenge the idea of a "perfect feminist," making the movement more inclusive.

Allow the words of these powerful women to inspire you and help you understand that change will come, however, regardless of change, there is always been motivation to keep going and overcome difficulties ahead.