International Women’s Day happens every year and it’s a chance for everyone to reflect on the difficulties women still face in 2024. Luckily, there are tons of great books, podcasts, documentaries and all kinds of media to learn and understand.
I’ve collected some of my favorite nonfiction books to help anyone who wants a better understanding of why feminism is still needed in the 21st century—including some that will drive you crazy and some that will give you hope.
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Nonfiction
Invisible Women by Caroline Criado-Perez
As I flipped through the pages, I found myself less shocked and more frustrated by the reality that so many women faced.
If you want to better understand how society still discriminates against women, even by those with the best intentions, this is a good start and an important read, although you may need to meditate afterwards.
You can buy this from Waterstones or Amazon.
Feminists Don’t Wear Pink (and Other Lies) by Scarlett Curtis
When I was young, I didn’t like that all the “girl toys” seemed to train me to be a stay-at-home mom. I didn’t like that boys were always the strong ones and that I would love the color pink just because I was a girl. My big rebellion was loving the color blue, but as I’ve gotten older (like many people) I’ve discovered that I actually like pink.
It allows you to take a closer look at what feminism means from many women from different backgrounds and an insight into realities you may not have considered.
You can buy Feminister Don’t Wear Pink (and other lies) here on Amazon or at Waterstones.
Everyday Sexism by Laura Bates
If you think sexism is a problem of the past, you would probably benefit from reading up on some of the experiences women still face today. Everyday Sexism explores the realities women face in a variety of areas, including motherhood, the workplace, the media and public spaces.
You can buy it here at Waterstones or Amazon.
Fiction
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood
Although The Love Hypothesis has gained fame on TikTok for the romantic aspect of the Book, it sheds light on the reality of pursuing an academic career as a woman.
Olive is a hard-working academic with a passion for her subject but still faces discrimination and sexual harassment by the more prominent in her field.
Sexual harassment is something that many women face in their daily lives and Ali does not shy away from highlighting it in her work of fiction. She even touches on the subject in her short story Under a Roof.
You can buy it here at Waterstones or Amazon.
It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
Relationships can be a complex and tricky thing to navigate at the best of times, but when abuse and manipulation are involved, it can be even more difficult.
So often people ask “why doesn’t she go?” when discussing abusive relationships, an issue that comes up even more when celebrities find themselves in this scenario.
It Ends With Us puts you in the woman’s shoes as she navigates a relationship that may not be the best for her. It is an insightful insight into the reality that many women face.
You can buy it here at Waterstones or Amazon.
