80 Good Books to Read for Women: Fiction, Memoirs, and Self‑Help

Women are the driving force behind the reading world. They often finish more books than men each year. Here are some good books to read for women who want to learn something new every day and stay passionate about their habits.

And if you want to go beyond the BookTok trends and turn each reading session into a learning insight, try the Headway app! It contains over 2000 book summaries of nonfiction bestsellers like 'Becoming' and 'The Gifts of Imperfection,' offering a clear path to a better version of yourself.

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The top five good books to read for women

If you want a must-read that people discuss on social media, start with these five. They are perfect for a first-time reader or a book club member:

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Top 80 must-read books for women: Classic titles and nonfiction bestsellers

Finding your next favorite book is a chance to see your own life in a new light. This list looks at the stories that shape us, from self-help hits to fiction books that stayed on the New York Times bestseller list for months. 

Personal growth and self-development

These titles help you build a better mindset, making them the best books for self-improvement and psychological education for beginners.

1. 'Invisible Women' by Caroline Criado Perez

The world often functions as if women don't exist in data sets. This must-read reveals how systemic bias affects your daily life.

2. 'The Gifts of Imperfection' by Brené Brown

Letting go of who you think you should be allows you to accept who you are. This self-help classic provides real-life advice for those seeking authentic growth.

3. 'How Women Rise' by Sally Helgesen & Marshall Goldsmith (2018) 

Twelve specific habits frequently keep talented women from reaching the next level in their careers. Professionals in a leadership role will find these insights very helpful.

4. 'Get Smart' by Bryan Caplan (2018)

Success depends on your ability to see through social noise and make better choices. A summary of these logical tools is available on the Headway app.

5. 'Untamed' by Glennon Doyle (2020) 

This bestseller encourages readers to stop following the expectations of others. Women find a powerful coming-of-age message within these pages.

6. Atomic Habits' by James Clear (2018) 

Major life changes result from tiny, consistent improvements in your daily routine. This must-read works for any goal you have.

7. 'Big Magic' by Elizabeth Gilbert (2015) 

Fear should not prevent you from living a creative life. This guide acts as a warm mentor for your inner artist.

8. 'The Mountain Is You' by Brianna Wiest (2020) 

Self-sabotage often prevents us from reaching our true potential. Members of a book club will enjoy discussing how to move past internal blocks.

9. Set Boundaries, Find Peace' by Nedra Glover Tawwab (2021) 

Healthy relationships require the ability to say "no" without feeling guilty. This book provides practical tools for clear communication.

10. Daring Greatly' by Brené Brown (2012) 

Vulnerability is a sign of strength rather than a weakness. Many readers find this perspective life-changing.

11. 'The 5 AM Club' by Robin Sharma (2018) 

Owning your morning allows you to elevate your life. This book follows a fictional story to teach real-life productivity habits.

12. 'Mindset' by Carol S. Dweck (2006) 

Believing that your abilities can grow changes your entire future. The concept of the "growth mindset" is an essential must-read.

13. 'The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up' by Marie Kondo (2011) 

Organizing your physical space can lead to a much calmer mind. This global bestseller focuses on keeping only items that spark joy.

14. 'Girl, Wash Your Face' by Rachel Hollis (2018) 

Breaking free from the lies we tell ourselves leads to a more confident life. The author uses personal stories to motivate her readers.

15. 'The Happiness Project' by Gretchen Rubin (2009) 

One year of testing various theories of happiness provides a roadmap for a better life. It's a great women's book for anyone feeling stuck.

16. 'You Are a Badass' by Jen Sincero (2013) 

Identifying and changing self-limiting beliefs is the first step toward greatness. And the tone is funny, blunt, and very encouraging.

17. 'Option B' by Sheryl Sandberg (2017) 

Resilience is a muscle you build when life doesn't go as planned. This book looks at facing adversity and finding joy again.

18. 'The Wisdom of Sundays' by Oprah Winfrey (2017) 

Powerful conversations with spiritual leaders offer a sense of peace. It works well as a good book for morning reflection.

19. 'Good Vibes, Good Life' by Vex King (2018) 

Self-love is the foundation for manifesting a positive reality. The book offers simple ways to raise your energy.

20. 'Everything Is Figureoutable' by Marie Forleo (2019)

A single mindset shift can help you solve any problem you face. This book provides a practical discipline for your brain.

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Feminist nonfiction and identity

These books look at what it means to be a woman today. They are often thought-provoking and spark great talks in a book club pick.

21. The Woman in Me' by Britney Spears (2023) 

A global icon finally tells her true story on her own terms. The narrative looks at fame, family, and the journey to find a voice.

22. 'Why Men Love Bitches' by Sherry Argov (2002) 

Standing up for yourself is the key to gaining respect in romantic relationships. This self-help favorite focuses on the value of self-reliance.

23. 'Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man' by Steve Harvey (2009) 

Understanding how men view commitment can change your perspective on dating. The author shares a blunt look at modern romance.

24. 'Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus' by John Gray (1992) 

Couples often struggle because they communicate in entirely different ways. This good book helps partners bridge the gap in their daily lives.

25. 'Hood Feminism' by Mikki Kendall (2020) 

Basic needs like housing and food are feminist issues that society often ignores. This new book is vital for a broader look at identity.

26. 'Bad Feminist' by Roxane Gay (2014) 

One can love pop culture and still be a committed feminist. These essays provide a funny and honest look at modern life.

27. 'A Room of One's Own' by Virginia Woolf (1929) 

Financial independence and physical space remain essential for female creativity. This short classic stays relevant even decades after it was written.

28. 'Educated' by Tara Westover (2018) 

Knowledge has the power to pull a person out of a tough and isolated childhood. This memoir is a life-changing look at the value of learning.

29. 'The Second Sex' by Simone de Beauvoir (1949) 

Society has historically defined women only in relation to men. History students will find this must-read very informative.

30. 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings' by Maya Angelou (1969) 

Beautiful prose helps tell a story of trauma and the strength to overcome it. This award-winning book is a masterpiece of American literature.

31. 'The Feminine Mystique' by Betty Friedan (1963) 

The hidden frustration of housewives in the 1950s sparked a major social movement. This book is a pillar of feminist history.

32. 'Women Who Run with the Wolves' by Clarissa Pinkola Estés (1992) 

Myths and stories help women reconnect with their wild, instinctual nature. It's a thought-provoking journey through the female psyche.

33. 'Ain't I a Woman' by bell hooks (1981) 

Racism and sexism intersect in ways that affect Black women uniquely. This nonfiction work is essential for understanding social justice.

34. 'Lean In' by Sheryl Sandberg (2013) 

Women should take their place at the table in the professional world. The book started a global conversation about women and leadership.

35. 'The Beauty Myth' by Naomi Wolf (1990) 

Social standards of beauty are often used to control women's lives. This book looks at the link between commerce and physical appearance.

36. 'Sister Outsider' by Audre Lorde (1984) 

Differences should be celebrated as a source of strength rather than division. These essays are a must-read for anyone interested in intersectional thought.

37. 'My Life on the Road' by Gloria Steinem (2015) 

Traveling and listening to others can lead to a life of activism. The author shares her experiences as a leader in the women's movement.

38. The Purity Myth' by Jessica Valenti (2009) 

Linking a woman's value to her sexuality is a damaging social practice. The author challenges traditional views on moral worth.

39. 'Whipping Girl' by Julia Serano (2007) 

Transfeminism provides a unique lens for looking at gender and sexism. This book is a vital resource for modern identity studies.

40. 'Men Explain Things to Me' by Rebecca Solnit (2014) 

The way men often silence women in conversation is a sign of broader social issues. These essays are sharp, witty, and very relatable.

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Fiction, love, and life stories

Sometimes, a love story or a sci-fi adventure is the best way to gain knowledge. These books offer great short stories and long novels you'll love.

41. 'Becoming' by Michelle Obama (2018) 

Personal growth is a continuous journey rather than a destination. This Amazon favorite follows a path from Chicago to the global stage.

42. 'Act Like a Lady' by Keltie Knight, Becca Tobin, and Jac Vanek (2020) 

Reinventing your life after a major setback requires humor and grit. This women's fiction novel is both fun and relatable.

43. 'Millionaire Women Next Door' by Thomas J. Stanley (2004) 

Self-made success usually comes from hard work and smart saving habits. Readers wanting financial freedom will value this nonfiction research.

44. 'How to Talk to Anyone' by Leil Lowndes (1992) 

Social success is a skill that any millennial can learn through simple tricks. These 92 techniques help improve your connections with others.

45. 'The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo' by Taylor Jenkins Reid (2017) 

A fictional movie star reveals the secrets of her glamorous and tragic life. This story is a major hit on social media.

46. 'The Midnight Library' by Matt Haig (2020) 

A library between life and death allows a woman to see the lives she could have lived. This science fiction tale looks at regret and hope.

47. 'Beach Read' by Emily Henry (2020) 

Two writers with different styles challenge each other to swap genres for a summer. It's a perfect beach read for your vacation.

48. 'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah (2015) 

Two sisters show different types of courage during the occupation of France. Fans of history often name this as one of their must-read books.

49. 'Little Women' by Louisa May Alcott (1868) 

The March sisters navigate the transition from childhood to adulthood during the Civil War. This favorite book continues to inspire new generations.

50. 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen (1813) 

First impressions are often wrong in the world of society and romance. This love story remains a witty and sharp look at human nature.

51. 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald (1925) 

The pursuit of wealth can lead to a very lonely life. Every book lover's list should include this short classic.

52. 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker (1982) 

The bond between sisters provides strength in the face of immense hardship. This Pulitzer Prize winner is a masterpiece of American fiction.

53. 'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood (1985) 

A future world where women are treated as property serves as a powerful warning. This sci-fi classic is a must-read.

54. 'Where the Crawdads Sing' by Delia Owens (2018) 

A girl raised by the marsh becomes a suspect in a local murder case. It was a massive book club pick for a good reason.

55. 'Normal People' by Sally Rooney (2018) 

Two people struggle to stay apart despite the changes in their lives. This millennial favorite looks at the complexity of intimacy.

56. 'The Vanishing Half' by Brit Bennett (2020) 

Twin sisters choose to live in two different racial worlds. Their story covers themes of identity, family, and the past.

57. 'Circe' by Madeline Miller (2018) 

A famous Greek goddess gets to tell her side of the story for the first time. The novel offers a fresh point of view on ancient myths.

58. 'The Bell Jar' by Sylvia Plath (1963) 

A young woman faces the pressures of society while her mental health declines. This novel remains a powerful piece of literature.

59. 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt (1992) 

A group of students at an elite college becomes involved in a dark and mysterious murder. It's a gripping must-read.

60. 'Americanah' by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (2013) 

A young woman navigates life and love across three different continents. This story looks at race, identity, and the meaning of home.

61. 'The House of the Spirits' by Isabel Allende (1982) 

Family secrets and political turmoil blend with magical realism in Chile. This favorite book is a beautiful family saga.

62. 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Brontë (1847) 

A woman's search for independence and love leads her to a dark secret. This short classic is a pillar of English literature.

63. 'Beloved' by Toni Morrison (1987) 

The haunting legacy of slavery affects a mother's relationship with her children. This Pulitzer Prize winner is a profound work of art.

64. 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' by Gabriel García Márquez (1967) 

The rise and fall of the Buendía family is told through generations of magical events. It's a masterpiece of world fiction.

65. 'The Poisonwood Bible' by Barbara Kingsolver (1998) 

A missionary family in the Congo faces tragedy and cultural clashes. The story is told from the point of view of five different women.

66. 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn (2012) 

A husband becomes the primary suspect when his wife goes missing on their anniversary. This thriller is a top pick on Amazon.

67. 'The God of Small Things' by Arundhati Roy (1997) 

Childhood experiences in India shape the lives of two twins in ways they cannot escape. This award-winning book is beautifully written.

68. 'Big Little Lies' by Liane Moriarty (2014) 

The lives of three mothers in a wealthy town unravel after a mysterious death. It's a perfect selection for the book club.

69. 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho (1988) 

Following your dreams can lead you to unexpected treasures around the world. This short fable is a must-read book pick for many.

70. 'Life of Pi' by Yann Martel (2001) 

A young man survives a shipwreck and shares a lifeboat with a tiger. It's a story of faith, survival, and the power of storytelling.

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Memoirs and life-changing reads

Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is listen to someone else's journey. These stories remind us that no matter how hard life gets, there is a way through.

71. 'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed (2012) 

Hiking a long trail alone can help a person heal from loss. This story is an excellent audiobook for long walks.

72. 'Crying in H Mart' by Michelle Zauner (2021) 

Food serves as a bridge between a daughter and her late mother. The memoir is a very emotional look at heritage.

73. 'The Glass Castle' by Jeannette Walls (2005) 

A difficult upbringing does not have to define your future success. This true story highlights the power of resilience.

74. 'Bossypants' by Tina Fey (2011) 

A successful woman shares what it is like to work in the world of television. It's a funny look at a career in comedy.

75. 'Quiet' by Susan Cain (2012) 

Introverts have a unique set of strengths that the modern world often overlooks. This nonfiction hit changes how you see social interactions.

76. 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks' by Rebecca Skloot (2010) 

One woman's cells changed medicine forever without her family knowing. This award-winning book blends science with a personal history.

77. 'I Am Malala' by Malala Yousafzai (2013) 

A young girl risks everything to ensure that others can go to school. Her story has inspired people all over the globe.

78. 'H Is for Hawk' by Helen Macdonald (2014) 

The process of taming a wild bird helps a woman deal with her father's death. It's a unique and moving memoir.

79. 'The Last Lecture' by Randy Pausch (2008) 

A professor gives his final talk about how to achieve your childhood dreams. This short book offers a lot of wisdom.

80. 'Year of Yes' by Shonda Rhimes (2015) 

Saying "yes" to scary things can lead to a much more fulfilling life. The creator of hit TV shows shares her personal journey.

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Genre mini-guides

Choosing a good book depends on your mood. If you want to learn, look for self-help books for women. If you want to relax, women's fiction or a love story might be better.

Best self-help books for women

Titles like 'The Gifts of Imperfection' and 'How Women Rise' are perfect for your personal development. They offer tools to build confidence and better habits. You can find many of these as quick reads for adults on the Headway app.

Best fiction books to read for women

If you love a good story, try 'The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo' or 'The Midnight Library.' These books are popular in every book club because they make you think about your own choices.

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What to read next: TBR lists by various life phases

Your reading list should grow with you. Here are some book recommendations based on where you are in life.

For women in their 20s

It's a time for coming-of-age stories and finding your path. 'Normal People' and 'The Bell Jar' are great picks. They help you navigate new relationships and the "real world."

For women in their 30s

Focus on leadership and balance. 'How Women Rise' and 'Becoming' are perfect for this decade. They offer wisdom on building a career while staying true to yourself.

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Find more insightful reads for women with Headway

We looked at many good books to read for women, from life-changing memoirs to fun beach reads. Reading is a great way to grow. You don't always have the hours to sit down with a thick bestseller. Headway helps you stay on track.

The Headway app gives you the main ideas from thousands of nonfiction books in 15 minutes. You can listen to an audiobook version while you exercise or read a text summary on the bus. It's a simple way to make self-growth a daily habit without feeling overwhelmed.

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