5 Captivating and Empowering Books Written by Women

Classic and contemporary literature written by women, recognized worldwide, proves that the female voice deserves to be heard. The professionalism and poetic nature with which female authors depict the lives of other women, their deep and mysterious inner worlds, and their struggles for the right to exist, love, and overcome difficulties, attract not just a female audience. Indeed, these works are filled with poetry, intensity, drama, and, of course, the ability to analyze the world around us—not just externally, but also internally. We have selected five female authors who have written novels that are not only beneficial for any woman but also provide aesthetic satisfaction, as their plots are truly captivating.

“The Second Sex” by Simone de Beauvoir

Once an obscure book, Simone de Beauvoir’s “The Second Sex” is a powerful work that explores the concept of “woman” in the Western world. The book addresses issues of inequality and various societal differences. This deep and captivating text by the French pioneer of feminism remains as relevant today as it was 60 years ago, continuing to inspire women and men to rise against injustices and societal stigmas. For lovers of socially charged texts filled with dramatic events and personal experiences, this book will seem not only useful but also engaging.

“The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath

Sylvia Plath’s “The Bell Jar” is considered one of the most outstanding examples of American classic literature. The story centers on Esther Greenwood, a suburban girl who is beautiful, talented, and successful but gradually descends into madness. Sylvia Plath skillfully paints a realistic and terrifying portrait of human insanity and the dark wonders our consciousness is capable of. Rational experiences blend with irrational ones, and the narrative delves into the farthest and darkest corners of the protagonist’s psyche.

“Evelina” by Fanny Burney

“Evelina” is the story of a woman’s life and her place in 18th-century society, with all its ambiguous, pressing, tempting, and dangerous pleasures. Fanny Burney depicts the concepts of “femininity,” “innocence,” and “sexuality.” The novel’s protagonist is an innocent girl living in a world of dishonor, snobbery, and sexual aggression. However, Evelina’s wisdom allows her to satirically view the absurdity of the society around her, with its ambitions, manners, and consumerism. Additionally, “Evelina” serves as a guide to the bohemian life of London, showcasing the times and customs of its inhabitants, the social position of women in the 18th century, and, of course, it is not devoid of love and romance.

“The Diary of Eva Morelli” by Marianne D’Azencourt

“The Diary of Eva Morelli” can rightly be considered a unique psychological novel, full of intrigue and distinctive charm. The main character of the novel is psychotherapist Stephen Forrester, who dreams of a quiet life with his wife somewhere in the suburbs of New York. The madness of the metropolis has worn him out, and he decides to leave it. But Forrester’s life begins to take new turns when a certain Eva Hatheway comes to see him. As he listens to Eva’s long, dramatic, and mysterious childhood story, Forrester becomes increasingly interested in her life and tries to unravel the strange and sometimes mystical events she has experienced. Soon, these events begin to haunt the psychotherapist in his own life.

“White Oleander” by Janet Fitch

This work, distinguished by incredible poetry mixed with the horror and depression of everyday reality, will surely appeal to those who prefer a captivating plot and lyricism that depicts this cruel world. The main characters of the novel “White Oleander” are the brilliant poet Ingrid, arrested for murder, and her daughter Astrid, whose fascinating odyssey through various places in Los Angeles the reader observes throughout the narrative. In the world of “White Oleander,” its own laws prevail, its own dangers exist, and, of course, real life lessons are taught to those who are not averse to delving into the depths of their own souls. Besides the captivating plot, this book is worth reading for its aesthetic presentation, which can be compared to a poem—exquisite, ornate, intense, and filled with mystery.

These five books by women authors offer a rich tapestry of experiences, emotions, and insights that are both empowering and captivating. They provide a unique perspective on the world and the human condition, making them essential reads for anyone seeking to understand the depth and complexity of women’s lives.