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112 Best Women Empowerment Books for Inspiration

Best Books about Women's Empowerment for Inspiration

Like a precious stone, every woman's soul has different properties — facets that combine to form who she is. It's made of kindness, tenderness, softness, sensitivity, and tremendous strength. To nurture confidence and self-awareness, we offer a selection of the best books on women's empowerment.

Being a woman often means confronting and fighting prejudices and stereotypes that get in the way of personal and career development. Many women look to the insights from top motivational books for women to help them handle challenges and balance their lives.

In many cultures, women are expected to care for children and the family, while men are the primary sources of income. These gender stereotypes can lead to specific problems for women, such as structural discrimination at work, poor health, or low self-esteem. Modern society should actively resist these limiting beliefs.

In modern democratic countries, a woman can choose any role for herself. So, the fight for gender equality is really a fight for freedom and democracy. Books about women's leadership, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and life organization will provide encouragement.

And as a side note, women possess higher emotional intelligence. Studies have shown that women usually understand other people's emotions better, show greater empathy, and communicate better. Therefore, these traits can make women more effective as leaders, mentors, and group members.

Girl power books

Women experience a lot of mental stress because of their status, roles in the family, work, and other social spheres of life.

There's plenty of literature that opens up new facets of femininity and tells you how to be a woman in the modern world. It tells you how to love yourself so that everyone around you loves you, how to love life and enjoy it to the fullest, and how to enjoy sex, an essential aspect of women's health and happiness. 

Understanding women's psychology matters for supporting women's mental health. This knowledge can influence both physical and emotional well-being — and it's useful for men as well.

Below you'll find books that discuss femininity, women's health, psychology, and other girly topics. Choose the best books about girl power for motivation and confidence! 

The Moment of Lift

by Melinda Gates

What is The Moment of Lift about?

This insightful book explores the critical importance of empowering women to create lasting change in society. Through personal stories, compelling research, and impactful examples, the author highlights how elevating women's roles in economic, social, and political spheres leads to broader progress for communities and nations. It emphasizes that when women thrive, everyone benefits, making a strong case for gender equality as a key driver of global development.

Who should read The Moment of Lift

Women's rights activists and advocates
People interested in global development issues
Readers focused on gender equality and empowerment

Year of Yes

by Shonda Rhimes

What is Year of Yes about?

This memoir explores a transformative year in the author's life where she embraces the power of saying 'yes' to new experiences and challenges. Through personal stories and reflections, it highlights themes of self-empowerment, creativity, and the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone. Rhimes shares her journey of finding joy, confidence, and authenticity in her personal and professional life, inspiring readers to take control of their own narratives.

Who should read Year of Yes

Aspiring creatives seeking inspiration in self-empowerment.
Readers interested in personal growth and transformation.
Fans of Shonda Rhimes wanting deeper insights into her journey.

Stay Sexy & Don’t Get Murdered

by Karen Kilgariff, Georgia Hardstark

What is Stay Sexy & Don’t Get Murdered about?

This entertaining guide blends humor with real-life advice, focusing on self-care, safety, and navigating life's challenges. Written by two popular podcasters, it shares personal stories and practical tips on everything from mental health to coping with the unexpected. The book encourages readers to embrace their individuality while maintaining a light-hearted perspective on serious topics, ultimately promoting empowerment and resilience.

Who should read Stay Sexy & Don’t Get Murdered

Fans of true crime and dark humor.
Women navigating modern life challenges.
Readers who enjoy relatable, honest storytelling.

Three Women

by Lisa Taddeo

What is Three Women about?

This captivating narrative explores the intimate and complex lives of three women as they navigate love, desire, and betrayal. Through raw and honest storytelling, it delves into their personal journeys, revealing how their relationships shape their identities and choices. Each woman's experience offers a unique perspective on modern femininity, vulnerability, and the search for fulfillment, ultimately intertwining their paths in a poignant examination of contemporary womanhood.

Who should read Three Women

Fans of contemporary women's literature
Readers interested in deep character studies
Those exploring themes of desire and identity

Lessons

by Gisele Bündchen

What is Lessons about?

This memoir shares the personal journey of a supermodel who reflects on her life, career, and the lessons learned along the way. Through candid anecdotes, she explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and gratitude, emphasizing the importance of finding balance and purpose. The book offers insight into her experiences in the fashion industry, her commitment to environmental causes, and her pursuit of a fulfilling life beyond fame.

Who should read Lessons

Fans of Gisele Bündchen and her life story
Readers seeking inspiration for personal growth
Individuals interested in wellness and mindfulness practices

Not Nice

by Dr. Aziz Gazipura

What is Not Nice about?

This empowering guide helps individuals break free from the patterns of people-pleasing and silence. It offers practical strategies to develop assertiveness, enabling readers to express their needs and desires confidently. Through insightful advice and exercises, it encourages a shift toward authenticity and self-acceptance, teaching how to say no without guilt and embrace one’s true self unapologetically.

Who should read Not Nice

People struggling with self-assertiveness and confidence.
Individuals wanting to overcome people-pleasing behaviors.
Anyone seeking to improve personal boundaries and communication.

Best Job Ever!

by Dr. C.K. Bray

What is Best Job Ever! about?

This transformative guide encourages readers to reassess their career paths and redefine success beyond traditional measures. By combining personal anecdotes, practical advice, and psychological insights, the author empowers individuals to pursue fulfilling work and a richer life experience. With a focus on finding passion and purpose, this book challenges conventional beliefs about wealth and happiness, inspiring readers to create their ideal careers and lifestyles.

Who should read Best Job Ever!

Career changers seeking fulfillment and purpose.
Recent graduates exploring innovative career paths.
Anyone craving a more enriching work-life balance.

The Power of The Pussy

by Kara King

What is The Power of The Pussy about?

This empowering guide explores the dynamics of attraction and relationships, encouraging women to embrace their feminine power. Through insightful advice and real-life stories, it teaches how to communicate effectively with men to gain love, respect, and commitment. The book emphasizes self-worth and confidence, providing strategies to navigate romantic encounters while maintaining personal integrity and genuine connection. Perfect for those seeking to enhance their relationships and understand male behavior.

Who should read The Power of The Pussy

Women seeking empowerment in relationships.
Individuals interested in gender dynamics and attraction.
Readers looking for self-improvement and confidence tips.

Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man

by Steve Harvey

What is Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man about?

This insightful guide delves into the male psyche regarding love and relationships, providing women with the tools to understand what men really want. Through candid advice and real-life examples, it explores themes of intimacy, commitment, and the differences in emotional perspectives between genders. Aimed at empowering women, it encourages them to embrace their own worth while navigating the complexities of romantic relationships.

Who should read Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man

Women seeking insight into men's perspectives on relationships.
Singles hoping to understand dating dynamics and challenges.
Couples aiming to improve communication and intimacy.

Thinner Leaner Stronger

by Michael Matthews, PhD

What is Thinner Leaner Stronger about?

This book offers women evidence-based strategies for transforming their bodies through effective nutrition and exercise. It breaks down complex fitness concepts into simple, actionable steps, focusing on strength training and diet to achieve a lean and toned physique. With practical advice tailored specifically for women, it empowers readers to take control of their health, improve their fitness levels, and achieve lasting results without gimmicks or extreme measures.

Who should read Thinner Leaner Stronger

Women seeking to improve their fitness journey.
Fitness enthusiasts wanting effective body transformation strategies.
Readers interested in science-based nutrition and exercise methods.

Money Honey

by Rachel Richards

What is Money Honey about?

This practical guide empowers readers to take control of their finances through a straightforward seven-step approach. It covers essential topics like budgeting, saving, investing, and building passive income, making financial literacy accessible. With actionable advice and real-life examples, it aims to help individuals achieve financial independence and eliminate money-related stress. Ideal for anyone looking to transform their financial habits and secure their future.

Who should read Money Honey

Young professionals seeking financial independence.
College graduates starting their financial journey.
Anyone feeling overwhelmed by personal finance decisions.

We Should All Be Feminists

by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

What is We Should All Be Feminists about?

This insightful essay argues for gender equality and challenges traditional notions of feminism. Blending personal anecdotes with social commentary, the author explores how societal norms limit both men and women. Through her engaging narrative, she advocates for a world where everyone can be empowered, encouraging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and actions regarding gender issues.

Who should read We Should All Be Feminists

Young adults seeking to understand gender equality.
Educators wanting to promote feminist discussions in classrooms.
Anyone interested in social justice and women's rights.

Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office

by Lois P. Frankel, PhD

What is Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office about?

This insightful guide explores the subtle, often unconscious behaviors that hinder women's professional advancement. Through practical advice and actionable strategies, it reveals how societal expectations shape women's workplace interactions. The author highlights common mistakes—from communication styles to self-presentation—that undermine confidence and authority, aiming to empower women to reclaim their ambition and assert their professional identities, ultimately leading to greater career success.

Who should read Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office

Women in early career stages seeking professional growth.
Female leaders wanting to enhance their workplace influence.
Career coaches guiding women in corporate environments.

The Dance of Anger

by Harriet Lerner, PhD

What is The Dance of Anger about?

This insightful guide empowers women to understand and express their anger constructively, challenging societal norms that discourage emotional expression. By exploring the roots of anger and its impact on intimate relationships, the book offers practical strategies for communicating feelings effectively, fostering deeper connections, and breaking unhealthy patterns. It encourages readers to embrace their anger as a tool for personal growth and improved relational dynamics.

Who should read The Dance of Anger

Women seeking to understand their anger
Individuals wanting healthier intimate relationships
Therapists helping clients manage emotional expression

Fierce, Free, and Full of Fire

by Jen Hatmaker

What is Fierce, Free, and Full of Fire about?

This empowering guide encourages readers to embrace their true selves, shedding societal expectations and stepping into authenticity. Through personal anecdotes and insightful wisdom, it inspires women to live with courage and passion. Offering practical advice on self-acceptance and joy, the narrative promotes the idea of being unapologetically oneself while celebrating the journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Who should read Fierce, Free, and Full of Fire

Women seeking empowerment and personal growth.
Readers interested in self-acceptance and authenticity.
Fans of motivational and inspirational literature.

Fervent

by Priscilla Shirer

What is Fervent about?

This guide empowers women to deepen their prayer life with intentionality and purpose. Through strategic insights and personal anecdotes, it encourages readers to identify spiritual battles and craft specific prayers. With a focus on addressing individual challenges and strengthening faith, the book offers practical steps to cultivate a fervent prayer life, transforming how one engages with God and navigates daily struggles.

Who should read Fervent

Women seeking a deeper prayer life.
Christian individuals desiring strategic spiritual growth.
Anyone looking to strengthen their faith through prayer.

Secrets of Six-Figure Women

by Barbara Stanny

What is Secrets of Six-Figure Women about?

This insightful book explores the habits and strategies of successful women who earn six figures and beyond. Through interviews and research, it reveals their secrets to financial independence, self-worth, and empowerment. It encourages readers to break through barriers, redefine their relationship with money, and pursue their true potential. With practical advice and motivational anecdotes, this guide inspires women to transform their careers and lives.

Who should read Secrets of Six-Figure Women

Women seeking financial independence and empowerment.
Entrepreneurs wanting to elevate their earning potential.
Professionals aiming for career advancement and success.

Untamed

by Glennon Doyle

What is Untamed about?

This transformative memoir explores the journey of self-discovery and liberation as the author confronts societal expectations and personal struggles. Through candid storytelling, she encourages readers to embrace their true selves, prioritize their own happiness, and break free from the constraints of people-pleasing. With powerful insights on love, motherhood, and resilience, the book inspires a radical shift toward authenticity and empowerment.

Who should read Untamed

Women seeking empowerment and self-acceptance.
Readers interested in personal growth and authenticity.
Those navigating societal expectations and personal desires.

The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex

by Sheila Wray Gregoire

What is The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex about?

This book offers a refreshing perspective on sexual intimacy for women, emphasizing that good girls can also have fulfilling and adventurous sex lives. It combines humor, practical advice, and biblical insights to empower readers to embrace their desires, communicate with their partners, and explore new dimensions of pleasure. With relatable anecdotes and practical tips, it challenges societal norms and encourages women to reclaim their sexual narratives.

Who should read The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex

Women seeking to enhance their intimate relationships.
Couples wanting to improve their sexual communication skills.
Readers interested in healthy and fulfilling sexual experiences.

Big Friendship

by Aminatou Sow, Ann Friedman

What is Big Friendship about?

Exploring the complexities and joys of adult friendships, this insightful book delves into how two women maintain their close bond amidst life's challenges. With candid anecdotes and thoughtful reflections, it highlights the importance of communication and vulnerability in nurturing lasting connections. Through personal stories and relatable experiences, the authors provide valuable advice on maintaining strong friendships that can weather the test of time.

Who should read Big Friendship

Friends navigating complex relationships
Anyone seeking deeper connections
Readers interested in modern friendship dynamics

Frequently asked questions on women's empowerment

What's meant by women's empowerment?

Women's empowerment is when women are given the same opportunities and freedoms as men across different areas of life. It's when a woman has the right to education, work, political participation, free choice in her personal life, and protection from discrimination. 

First, movements and organizations appear to draw attention to inequality. Then, laws were changed when women gained the right to vote, study, and work in various professions. Education and culture also play an important role — people begin to look at the role of women in society differently.

How can I be an empowered woman?

To become an empowered woman, nurture self-love, set goals and achieve them, take care of your appearance and health, emotional intelligence, learn to say "no," and create a positive environment around you. 

Being a developing woman means constantly taking care of your growth in knowledge, skills, career, relationships, and your inner world. It means listening to yourself, setting goals, and boldly pursuing them despite difficulties or stereotypes.

Who started the women's empowerment movement?

The women's rights movement began in Europe and the US in the late 18th and 19th centuries, with early advocates like Mary Wollstonecraft. In her 1792 work, "A Vindication of the Rights of Women," she called for women's education and equal opportunities.

Notable modern leaders include Malala Yousafzai, who advocates for girls' education; Greta Thunberg, who champions equal rights for girls, and Emma Watson, who launched the HeForShe campaign for gender equality.

How can I contribute to women's empowerment?

You can personally support women's empowerment in many ways, even in small steps, like:

  • Fostering education and personal development — by developing yourself, you set an example and inspire others.

  • Spreading knowledge — talk about equality with friends, family, and on social media.

  • Supporting other women — help girls and women secure education, work, counseling, and advice.

  • Volunteering or charity — support organizations that fight discrimination or violence.

What are some suggestions for feminist fiction books?

Feminist fiction includes works that explore and depict women's experiences, struggles for rights, equality, and self-identification through artistic imagery. 

Classic works include 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Brontë, and 'Frankenstein' by Mary Shelley. 

Contemporary books include 'Girl, Woman, Other' by Bernardina Evaristo, 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker, and 'The Only Woman in the Room' by Marie Benedict.

Is girl power feminist?

"Girl power" is associated with feminism, though people interpret it differently. The phrase came out of feminist punk culture in the 1990s and went mainstream when the Spice Girls popularized it, linking it to third-wave feminism.

At its core, girl power is about female strength, independence, and women supporting each other. But when it hit popular culture, some of that sharper political edge got softened.

What's that book about a girl with electric powers called?

You're probably thinking of 'The Power' (2016) by British author Naomi Alderman. In this science fiction work, girls and women around the world suddenly gain the ability to emit electrical discharges from their fingers, giving them a physical advantage over men.