The best empowering books written by female writers

To be a feminist you must believe in the equality of men and women. It is as simple as that.

Over the years the meaning of feminism has been misconstrued into people arguing it’s man-hating and women being superior to men. This is completely incorrect; the books listed below can help to better educate people who are keen to learn more about the equality of the sexes.

'What a Time to be Alone: The Slumflower's guide to why you are already enough' by Chidera Eggerue

Known on social media as ‘The Slumflower’, Chidera has crafted a book that leaves you feeling motivated to take charge of your own life. It has been considered as an essential guide for young women who are learning to love themselves in a society that makes it extremely difficult. Some of the subjects addressed in this guide include: self-confidence, self love and of course - female empowerment. Whilst being full of wisdom and life lessons this book, at times, is as funny as it is meaningful.

Alongside Chideras’ original artwork, the book includes bold designs making it visually pleasing which just adds to the enjoyment of reading it.

From telling you how to notice if you’re surrounding yourself with the wrong people, to showing it is completely normal to go to restaurants by yourself purely because you enjoy your own company, this is a must read.

“Choose yourself. Over and over again. Even when you’ve let yourself down. Choose yourself. Even when it feels uncomfortable. Choose yourself. Even when you’re tired. Choose Yourself.”

'We Should All Be Feminists' by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

We Should All Be Feminists is an insightful and personal essay adapted from the TED talk by the author herself. It is only 50 pages long yet it discusses her experience of sexism as a child growing up in Nigeria, telling us why feminism is needed today.

If you are just beginning to learn more about the concept of feminism, then this book is the perfect start as it is short and eloquent whilst being incredibly powerful. There is even a sample of the book in Beyoncé’s chart topping song Flawless.

“We raise girls to see each other as competitors. Not for jobs or for accomplishments which I think can be a good thing. But for the attention of men”

'Little Women' by Louise May Allcott

This story follows the headstrong March sisters as they make their mark on the world whilst battling 19th century gender norms. It shows the ambition and independence of each sister as they are growing up.

There have been various adaptions of this book, most recently into a movie with an A - list cast including: Emma Watson, Florence Pugh and Saorise Ronan.

This book is a timeless must read that has inspired generations of women and I have no doubt that it will continue to do so for years to come.

“I intend to make my own way in the world.”

Edited by Hannah Youds