While literature has not always been a safe space for women, we’ve seen great strides made since the 20th century in female-driven books. Works that center on women’s voices, experiences, and even struggles. It’s vital for women to be represented in literature and to identify with the characters presented. It’s just as important for readers of all to understand the complexities of being a woman. Here are ten female-driven books, ranging from classic to contemporary, and historical to fantasy and young adult. Each showcase the breadth and diversity of women’s experiences and perspectives, sure to both inspire and challenge readers.
This National Reading Day, dive deep into this list of books with strong female protagonists who will empower you to be your own main character!
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Genre: Classic Fiction
A timeless classic, Little Women by Louisa May Alcott centers around the four March sisters: Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy. Sisters who navigate the challenges of growing up, dealing with family tragedy, and striving for independence in Civil War-era Massachusetts. The novel is a beautiful portrait of sisterhood. Many classic lovers agree that Jo March is one of the most beloved and fierce literary heroines. Alcott’s exploration of the roles of women in society resonates even more today. Many readers revisit it for its warmth, wisdom, and insight into women’s inner lives.
Beloved by Toni Morrison
Genre: Historical Fiction
Beloved is a haunting and emotional tale of a runaway slave, Sethe, who is haunted by the ghost of her dead child. Through lyrical prose and psychological themes, Morrison examines the trauma of slavery, motherhood, and the struggle for freedom. The novel is driven by Sethe’s complex, raw emotions and her determination to create a life of dignity for herself and her family. Beloved is not just a story of survival but one of reclaiming identity, family, and love in the face of unimaginable pain.
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Genre: Fantasy/Romantasy
Fourth Wing is a fantasy novel set in a world of dragon riders. Riders who are trained in a prestigious military academy, Basgiath War College, known for its deadly and brutal training programs. The story follows Violet: a fierce and ambitious young woman who is forced to join the Basgiath’s rigorous training after the death of her older brother. Violet has Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a chronic illness that causes severe joint pain. Many in the chronic illness community look up to Violet for this reason.
Violet must navigate the intense challenges of dragon-riding training, battling both physical dangers and the complex politics of the academy. Along the way, she finds herself caught between her desire for survival and Xaden, a brooding and skilled dragon rider. Their passionate relationship make this not only a fantasy, but romance in the eyes of readers. Fourth Wing has quickly become a popular pick for readers who enjoy epic fantasy and strong female leads. It was followed by Iron Flame in 2024. The trilogy will be completed with a third novel, Onyx Storm, set to release on January 21, 2025.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Genre: Historical Fiction
Set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II, The Nightingale follows two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, as they navigate the harrowing challenges of war. While Vianne’s journey focuses on survival and protecting her family, Isabelle becomes a fierce resistance fighter. The novel highlights the untold stories of women during wartime. Showcasing the sacrifices, bravery, and resilience of women who played pivotal roles in history—often at great personal cost.
If you’re a Kristin Hannah fan, then you know she is a leading writer of female-driven books. Following the success of The Nightingale, she also released The Four Winds. aAnother period piece about The Dust Bowl and one mother’s fight for survival to keep her kids alive. And The Women: her most recent release about a nurse who serves in the Vietnam War. The protagonist later advocates for women to be recognized as heroes, having dealt with the trauma and toll of war.
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
Genre: Psychological Fiction
A deeply personal novel, The Bell Jar offers a searing exploration of mental illness and societal expectations. Esther Greenwood, the novel’s protagonist, struggles with depression while navigating the pressures of being a young woman in the 1950s. Plath’s portrayal of Esther’s inner turmoil captures the feeling of being trapped within the confines of societal norms. The novel remains a landmark in feminist literature. It delves into the challenges women face when confronting their mental health and the expectations placed on them by society.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Eleanor Oliphant is a quirky and socially awkward woman leading a solitary life in Glasgow. Despite her eccentricities, Eleanor’s story is one of quiet strength as she navigates the trauma of her past, develops meaningful relationships, and learns to embrace her humanity. This novel explores themes of loneliness, mental health, and personal growth, while also celebrating the power of compassion and self-acceptance. Eleanor is a protagonist whose growth and emotional journey resonate with readers who have experienced similar struggles. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine was the first pick in Reese’s Book Club. The club has become a trusted source and community that highlights female-driven books by female authors. Any pick of Reese’s is sure to make you feel represented and empowered in your own journey.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Genre: Mystery, Literary Fiction
Delia Owens’ debut novel Where the Crawdads Sing introduces Kya Clark, a young girl who grows up in isolation the swamps of North Carolina. Her story unfolds against the backdrop of both a murder mystery and a coming-of-age narrative. Kya’s independence, her bond with nature, and her resilience in the face of abandonment and societal rejection make her an unforgettable character. Owens’ novel beautifully weaves together themes of survival, love, and loneliness, while also illustrating the strength of women in a hostile world. Where the Crawdads Sing was developed into film, starring the budding Daisy Edgar-Jones (known for Normal People: also a novel-turned-TV series, and Twisters).
Carrie Soto is Back by Margaret Atwood
Genre: Historical Fiction
Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid follows the story of Carrie Soto. A former tennis champion who comes out of retirement to reclaim her record for the most Grand Slam titles after it’s threatened by a rising star. Driven by an intense need to prove herself, Carrie battles both physical limitations and her own insecurities. The novel explores themes of ambition, identity, and the cost of greatness. With a mix of fierce determination and vulnerability, Carrie Soto demonstrates what it truly takes to be a champion.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian Fiction
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a dystopian novel/trilogy set in a future where a totalitarian nation forces districts to participate in an annual event. 24 children, called “tributes,” are chosen to fight to the death in a televised arena. The story follows 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who volunteers to take her sister’s place as a tribute. As she navigates the brutal competition, Katniss harnesses her survival skills, like the bow and arrow. Her bravery allows her to challenge the oppressive system and make tough choices about loyalty and sacrifice.
The Housemaid (Series) by Frieda McFadden
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
The Housemaid by Frieda McFadden is a psychological thriller series about Millie, a woman with a troubled past who finds herself desperate for work. She becomes a housemaid for a wealthy family, but soon realizes that the seemingly perfect household harbors dark secrets. As she uncovers hidden tensions and manipulative behaviors, Millie becomes entangled in a dangerous game of deceit and power, where nothing is as it seems. While the novel is a page-turner, filled with twists and turns, it also explores a woman’s fight to redeem herself. Millie’s fight for survival and redemption makes her a strong female protagonist to look up to. She takes back her life, ultimately rewriting her story. The series also includes The Housemaid’s Secret and The Housemaid Is Watching. All three of these female-driven books have become instant bestsellers, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Be Empowered By These Strong Female Characters (And Authors!)
These female-driven books represent just a small selection from different genres of the many remarkable stories that center on women. Whether exploring historical realities, imagined futures, or the personal struggles of individual women, each of these books highlights the richness and depth of female characters. They offer profound insight not just into female––but human––nature, societal expectations, and the power of resilience. Through the voices of these women, readers gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be a woman in all its challenges and triumphs. These works not only provide entertainment but serve as powerful calls to reflect on the world we live in and the lives we lead.
