Diversifying Your Bookshelf: A Journey of Gender Equality in Reading
Introducing 10 books written by female authors
Do you keep a record of the books you’ve read? I have a habit of marking them down on Goodreads. I went to look at the books I’ve finished this year. A superficial analysis made me realize that only one of the 21 books has been written by a female author. Oh my dear, that’s less than 5 percent. Realizing this made me disappointed in myself. To provide a point of reference, in 2022 out of 32 books I finished, 8 were by women. That’s 25 percent. Not as good as I would like it to be, but I can clearly see that now the situation is even worse.
This realization didn’t fit into the picture I want to have about myself. I would like to think that I have a broad literature taste. I would like to think that I support equality. I would like to think that I include all kinds of perspectives in my reading. I was really annoyed because of the fact that what I read doesn’t go according to what kind of person I want to be.
To a great extent, thinking of a bookworm is defined and influenced by the books read. One thought I have been thinking about a lot is that the sphere of written works is dominated by white from middle-aged to old men. There’s no way that would be okay. I want to see a more diverse future. If I want things to change, the least I can do is go against the mainstream and consciously look for books written by those who do not represent white old men.
Inspired by these thoughts, I went to look on my “to-read” -list and picked 10 books written by women. The list includes sci-fi, fantasy, classics, and non-fiction about economics. Now again, I am a little bit embarrassed to admit that I didn’t have any selection criteria. Basically, I picked most of the books that were on my reading list which were written by women.
I am excited about getting to read these 10 books. Welcome to be excited as well. I haven’t read the books yet. So, I let ChatGPT introduce these books to you and me at the same time. I guess that’s being a postmodern bookworm :) Now, let’s get into this.
1. “The Power” by Naomi Alderman
Prepare to be electrified! Naomi Alderman’s “The Power” flips the world as we know it upside down. In this daring dystopian tale, women suddenly develop the ability to unleash electric jolts, turning the tables on gender dynamics. With thought-provoking social commentary and an electric plot, this book shines a spotlight on power, corruption, and the untamed potential within us all. Get ready to question everything you thought you knew about authority and discover just how shocking a story can be.
2. “Piranesi” by Susanna Clarke
Step into a labyrinth of wonder with “Piranesi” by Susanna Clarke. This enigmatic novel immerses readers in a world of endless halls and captivating mysteries. Clarke’s lyrical prose brings to life the intricate architecture and elusive secrets of the House. As you follow the eponymous character’s quest for truth, prepare to unravel the enigma of his existence. With each turn of the page, you’ll find yourself captivated by Clarke’s masterful storytelling and entranced by the grandeur of “Piranesi.”
3. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
Oh, Mr. Darcy! Jane Austen’s timeless classic “Pride and Prejudice” is a delicious romp through the tangled webs of 19th-century society. Join Elizabeth Bennet in her spirited encounters with the haughty Mr. Darcy, as witty banter and social nuances entangle their fates. Austen’s sharp observations and biting humor make this novel a delightful exploration of love, societal expectations, and the strength of a well-placed bonnet. Get ready to swoon, laugh, and cheer for the indomitable Elizabeth as she navigates the trials of the heart.
4. “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte
Prepare to be swept away by the winds of the moors in “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Bronte. Follow the indomitable Jane Eyre through a tale of love, mystery, and personal growth. Bronte’s masterful storytelling draws you into a world of dark secrets, tempestuous romances, and the resilience of the human spirit. Join Jane as she navigates Thornfield Hall and discovers the depths of her own strength. Be prepared to fall under the spell of Bronte’s captivating prose and the captivating tale of a heroine who refuses to be defined by societal expectations.
5. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a literary masterpiece that resonates with readers of all generations. Set in the Deep South, this profound and poignant tale confronts prejudice, injustice, and the power of compassion. Through Scout’s innocent eyes, we witness the courage of her father, Atticus Finch, as he defends an innocent man in a racially charged trial. Lee’s storytelling prowess combines humor, heartache, and timeless life lessons, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.
6. “Beloved” by Toni Morrison
Prepare to have your soul stirred by the powerful prose of Toni Morrison in “Beloved.” This haunting and evocative novel weaves a tapestry of the human experience. Through the eyes of Sethe, a former slave haunted by her past, Morrison explores the legacy of slavery, the weight of memory, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit. With poetic language and a narrative that demands to be felt, “Beloved” invites readers to confront the ghosts of history and delve into the depths of the human heart.
7. “The Wizard of Earthsea” by Ursula Le Guin
Step into a world of magic and adventure with Ursula Le Guin’s enchanting “The Wizard of Earthsea.” Join Ged, a young mage, as he embarks on a perilous journey to master his powers and face the darkness within. Le Guin’s vibrant prose and richly imagined world draw readers into a realm of ancient secrets and the consequences of tampering with the forces of nature. With themes of self-discovery and the balance of power, this captivating tale will ignite the spark of wonder within your own soul.
8. “Oryx and Crake” by Margaret Atwood
Get ready for a gripping journey through a dystopian world in Margaret Atwood’s “Oryx and Crake.” Set in a post-apocalyptic society, Atwood paints a chilling portrait of genetic engineering, corporate power, and the fragility of humanity. Through the eyes of Snowman, the last human, the haunting past and uncertain future converge. Atwood’s masterful storytelling and thought-provoking narrative will keep you on the edge of your seat, questioning the boundaries of science, ethics, and our own potential demise.
9. “The Shock Doctrine” by Naomi Klein
Hold on tight as Naomi Klein takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the world of disaster capitalism in “The Shock Doctrine.” Strap yourself in as Klein exposes the exploitative tactics employed by powerful elites during times of crisis. With meticulous research and a dash of righteous indignation, she unveils the shocking truth behind economic shock therapy. Brace yourself for a thought-provoking journey that challenges your understanding of power, economics, and the human cost of unchecked capitalism.
10. “Donut Economics” by Kate Raworth
Dive into a delectable treat for the mind with “Donut Economics” by Kate Raworth. This groundbreaking book serves up a fresh perspective on economics that challenges traditional notions of perpetual growth. Raworth introduces the concept of a donut-shaped economic model that balances the needs of humanity with the limits of our planet. With wit and clarity, she presents an alternative vision for a sustainable and thriving future. Prepare to sink your teeth into a deliciously thought-provoking read that will reshape your understanding of the world.
What do you think? Have you read any of these books yourself? Or maybe you have been thinking about reading one of them? Feel free to share your thoughts related to these books or gender equality in literature.
