Amidst the global crisis today, many of us are turning to our bookshelves, finding solace in reading. While reading might not appeal to everyone, the right book at the right moment can be truly impactful. Whether you’re seeking comfort, understanding in a senseless world, or aiming for personal growth, the answers might just lie within the pages of a book. Here’s a reading list curated for the twenty-first-century woman to delve into during these challenging times.
1. “Becoming” by Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama, the former First Lady of the United States, is a role model for women and girls everywhere, exemplifying thoughtfulness, poise, and intelligence. In her memoir, she shares her journey from growing up on Chicago’s South Side to attending Harvard, and her focus on public service, as well as meeting Barack Obama. Filled with life lessons and advice passed on to her daughters, it’s a beautifully written memoir that offers a moment of calm amid chaos, whether you’re a follower of American politics or not.
2. “Bad Feminist” by Roxane Gay
Roxane Gay, a renowned cultural critic and author, offers “Bad Feminist,” a collection of essays tackling topics like pop culture, politics, race, gender, sexuality, and society. She explores the idea of being a ‘bad feminist’—an individual who supports feminism and gender equality but doesn’t necessarily fit into the traditional feminist mold. Her insightful critiques prompt reflection on one’s own beliefs and morals, making it a must-read in today’s ongoing dialogue around feminism and equality. Roxane Gay’s other works like “Hunger: A Memoir of My Body” and “Not That Bad: Dispatches from Rape Culture,” which she edited, are also worth exploring.
3. “My Year With Eleanor” by Noelle Hancock
Inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt’s famous words, Noelle Hancock decided to tackle a new fear every day for an entire year. This heartfelt memoir details her journey through personal growth by confronting her fears. It’s lesser-known but offers an inspiring read about the transformative power of facing challenges head-on.
4. “Wishful Drinking” by Carrie Fisher
Carrie Fisher’s “Wishful Drinking” is as witty and humorous as you’d expect. Adapted from her one-woman show, it recounts her extraordinary life—from growing up with her famous mother Debbie Reynolds to her experiences with “Star Wars.” This book feels like having a candid chat with Carrie herself, filled with her trademark humor.
5. “A Half Baked Idea” by Olivia Potts
After the sudden death of her mother, Olivia Potts left her career in law to pursue her passion for baking. Her memoir follows her journey through Le Cordon Bleu and how baking helped her process her grief. It’s a heartwarming read about the deep connection between food and life’s emotional experiences, sure to draw you in from the start.
6. “Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies” by Tara Schuster
Tara Schuster, balancing her roles as a self-help enthusiast and comedy executive, combines personal memoir with self-help guidance. She emphasizes self-love, care, and decisive actions to overcome personal challenges. Her engaging book is packed with practical life advice and offers calming insights for the soul.