More categories
More categories

Smart Shopper is reader supported. When you shop our picks, we may receive a commission.

Celebrate Women's History Month by shopping these books by female authors

Want to celebrate women authors in conjunction with Women’s History Month? Check out these female-authored books that deserve a place on your bookshelf.

Published Feb 15, 2024
7 min. reading time
Collage of three books by female authors against and burnt orange and pale pink background

With March being Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day on March 8, we want to honor female writers’ contributions to literature, celebrate their achievements and reaffirm their importance in shaping our cultural landscape. 

These books are especially meaningful as they allow us to recognize the richness and diversity of women's voices and stories. If you’ve been looking for your next thrilling read, you’ve come to the right place.

Check out these top titles by women authors that we highly recommend.

Read more: Listen to these compelling Audible autobiographies

Browse female-authored books

Book cover of Song of Solomon
Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison
$5.33 at Amazon
Book cover of Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
$7.14 at Amazon
Book cover of Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Life
Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Life by Jane Sherron De Hart
$10.09 at Amazon
Book cover of The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
$13.31 at Amazon
Book cover of Song of Solomon
Photo: Amazon

Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison

You save $11.67 (68.65%)
$5.33$17

“Song of Solomon” dives into a rich tapestry of storytelling that'll leave you spellbound. 

Set against the backdrop of mid-20th century America, the story follows Macon Dead III, also known as Milkman, as he embarks on a journey to uncover his family's secrets and understand his place in the world. 

His quest leads him from the rural South to the urban North to confront his heritage, the legacy of slavery and the enduring power of love and community. 

Author Toni Morrison has a knack for weaving together intricate narratives that feel both intimate and epic at the same time. An immersive journey through generations, this book explores themes of identity, family, love and the search for meaning.

Book cover of Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Photo: Amazon

“Americanah” highlights what it’s like to fall in love but be separated by life’s complexities of race and identity. 

It follows the lives of Ifemelu and Obinze, two Nigerian teenagers in love, who experience different life paths. Ifemelu moves to America, while Obinze struggles with his own journey in England. You’ll be immersed in a journey of self-discovery, cultural exploration, and the search for belonging in a world that often feels divided. 

it's not all heavy stuff of course. You’ll find humor, romance and moments that you can identify with.

This book won author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie the National Book Critics Circle Award for fiction and is likely one you won’t put down from start to finish. 

Book cover of Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Life
Photo: Amazon

Looking for an inspiring read that's both enlightening and empowering? "Ruth Bader Ginsburg: A Life" is a must-have on your bookshelf. This biography offers a captivating glimpse into the remarkable journey of a woman who defied the odds and reshaped the landscape of American law and society.

Author Jane Sherron De Hart tells the story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg's rise from a determined young girl in Brooklyn to a trailblazing Supreme Court Justice. Her tireless advocacy for gender equality and civil rights is not only inspiring but also relevant in today's world. 

Whether you're interested in law, feminism, or just looking for a compelling biography, this book provides a deep dive into the life and legacy of a true icon. It’ll leave you inspired to stand up for what you believe in and to never underestimate the power of persistence and courage in the pursuit of justice.

Book cover of The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
Photo: Amazon

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

You save -$1,313 (-7294.44%)
$1,331$18

This book will sweep you away into the lush, intricate world of rural India. Arundhati Roy's writing is poetic, vivid and utterly captivating and it’s no wonder why it’s at the top of many must-read lists, as well as ours. 

Set against the backdrop of Kerala, this novel follows the lives of twins Rahel and Estha as they navigate a world filled with family secrets, societal constraints, and the weight of forbidden love. But beneath the surface of this seemingly tranquil setting lies a tale of heartbreak, loss and the consequences of breaking societal norms.

What sets this book apart is its ability to capture the essence of childhood—the innocence, the wonder, and the pain of growing up in a world where small moments can have big consequences. You will laugh, cry and ponder the complexities of human relationships long after you've finished reading this. 

Book cover of Play It As It Lays by Joan Didion
Photo: Amazon

In the mood for a dark and gritty read? “Play It As It Lays” is like a dark, moody symphony that plunges you into the depths of existential despair and Hollywood glamour all at once. 

Set in the gritty, glittering world of 1960s Los Angeles, author Joan Didion writes like a sharp knife slicing through the veneer of fame and fortune, revealing the emptiness and disillusionment lurking beneath. 

Through the eyes of protagonist and troubled actress Maria Wyeth, you'll witness a haunting portrayal of a woman grappling with the crushing weight of societal expectations, personal demons, and the relentless pursuit of meaning in a world that seems determined to break her. 

It's a raw, unflinching exploration of the human condition that'll leave you reeling and questioning everything you thought you knew about life, love and the pursuit of happiness. 

Book cover of The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
Photo: Amazon

The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

You save $7.47 (43.94%)
$9.53$17

If you’re a fan of dystopian worlds or have watched the series of the same name, you’ll want to pick up this book. 

Set in the totalitarian society of Gilead, where women are stripped of their rights and treated as property, Margaret Atwood’s storytelling is both mesmerizing and horrifying. 

Through the eyes of Offred, a handmaid forced into sexual servitude, the book is a harrowing tale of oppression, resilience and the fight for freedom. 

What makes this book truly powerful is its relevance to our own world—a reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need to safeguard the rights and freedoms we often take for granted. So, if you're ready to be challenged, provoked, and deeply moved, this is one to read.

For a more personal read that’s short and sweet, "Intimations" by Zadie Smith is like a collection of intimate conversations with a wise friend during uncertain times. It’s a book of essays written during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic where Smith offers poignant reflections on life, love and the human condition. 

Through her keen observations and lyrical prose, she delves into the complexities of our shared experiences, from the anxieties of isolation to dealing with systemic inequalities laid bare by the crisis. 

Whether you're seeking solace, inspiration, or simply a moment of reflection, "Intimations" is a reminder of how we’re all connected and the power of empathy in navigating uncertain times.

Book cover of City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert
Photo: Amazon

Written by Elizabeth Gilbert, author of “Eat Pray Love”, this book is set in the glitz and glamor of New York City in the 1940s. “City of Girls” tells the story of Vivian Morris, a young woman who finds herself caught up in the exhilarating world of theater and nightlife. 

You’ll escape reality in this book with its vibrant characters, glamorous setting, and vintage charm as this book explores love, friendship and self-discovery. 

Elizabeth Gilbert's writing is witty, poignant and captivating, making this novel a delightful and unforgettable read.

"The Age of Innocence” is a classic novel set in the upper echelons of New York society during the Gilded Age. The story follows Newland Archer, a young lawyer engaged to respectable May Welland, who becomes infatuated with May's unconventional cousin, Countess Ellen Olenska. 

Newland has to grapple with his feelings for Ellen and the societal expectations that bind him, while confronting the tension between desire and duty in a world where appearances are everything. 

Edith Warton weaves a juicy tale as she transports you into a world of forbidden love, societal expectations and the clash between individual desires and societal norms.

Book cover of Girl With a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier
Photo: Amazon

Fans of historical fiction and art will enjoy this creative take on the story behind the famous girl with a pearl earring painting.

A New York Times bestseller, "Girl with a Pearl Earring" will transport you to the heart of 17th-century Holland, where you’ll be captivated by the world of art, passion and intrigue. 

Through the eyes of Griet, a young servant girl who becomes the muse of the famed painter Johannes Vermeer, their relationship unfolds to become the inspiration for one of his most iconic works, "Girl with a Pearl Earring”.

The novel explores themes of art, class, power dynamics and the transformative power of creativity and human connection.

What is Women’s History Month?

Women's History Month is an annual celebration observed in March that highlights and honors the contributions, achievements and experiences of women throughout history. 

It serves as a time to recognize the often overlooked or marginalized roles that women have played in shaping societies, cultures, politics, sciences and the arts.

This is an opportunity to educate, raise awareness and celebrate the struggles, triumphs and diverse voices of women from all walks of life. 

How can I celebrate Women’s History Month?

There are many ways you can show your support and celebrate women throughout the month. Here are some ideas:

- Learn and educate: Take the time to research and learn about women's contributions to history, whether it's through books, documentaries, podcasts, or online resources. You can share your findings with others to raise awareness.

- Honor women in your life: Celebrate the women who have influenced and inspired you personally, whether it's your mother, grandmother, mentor, friend or colleague. Express your appreciation and gratitude for their impact on your life.

- Support women-owned businesses: Show your support for women entrepreneurs by shopping at women-owned businesses or dining at women-owned restaurants. This can help empower women economically.

- Reflect and advocate: Take this month as an opportunity to reflect on gender inequality and advocate for change. Support policies and initiatives that promote gender equity, challenge stereotypes and create opportunities for women to thrive.

- Celebrate diversity: Recognize the diversity of women's experiences and contributions by highlighting the achievements of women from different backgrounds, cultures, races, ethnicities, sexual orientations and abilities.

Our top picks for books by female authors

All the books by female authors on our list are top reads which we highly recommend. If we had to narrow it down and select the novels we can’t put down, these three would be our favorites:


Did you like this article? For more great deals and shopping ideas, find us now on your favorite social networks: Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest!


Prices updated on 02/15/2024. We are not responsible for any changes to the prices mentioned above.

Sherelyn Goh Professional Headshot
Written by
Sherelyn Goh

A former women's lifestyle magazine editor, Sherelyn Goh has worked with all things beauty, health, style and travel and finds a thrill in discovering and testing new products. Based in Kuala Lumpur, she enjoys food, travel, working out and cooking.

Specialized topics