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The best female authors of all time

When looking at the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, America's National Book Award , and the Booker Prize , you will notice that the female winners are densely packed into the last 30 years. While that could be seen as a sign of promise, the imbalance is still glaringly obvious which strikes me as odd considering the wealth of literary talent among women. I set out to create a list of 50 essential female authors, and upon hitting 50 in under five minutes I decided to shoot for 100. It wasn't a hard list to fill - what was hard was choosing just 100. I cringe to think of the names that were omitted.

How do we change this? We start with the obvious - we read women. If that's step one, then step two is to talk about them - to review them, to critique them, to press their books into the hands of our book-loving friends. Whatever stage you're at in the endeavor to read more women, here are 100 talented female authors to get you started or keep you going.

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30 Best Books Written by Female Authors

Discover the treasures penned by incredible female authors . Dive into our list of the best books written by female authors and their literary mastery.

It hasn’t always been easy for women to get into literature. In the 19th century, many were critical of women authors . Often, they attack their “ lack of wordy experience and rationality .”

Through the years, women persisted and created literary gems. These constant successes dismissed these negative and unwarranted comments. They also cultivated the literary landscape with rich narratives and writing styles that endured the test of time.

Women did not only face societal pressures and challenge the norms head-on. They also offer diverse voices and perspectives that shaped literature as we know it today. Read our list of adjectives for strong women to use in your writing.

Best Books Written by Female Authors Ranked

1. pride and prejudice by jane austen, 2. frankenstein by mary shelley, 3. to the lighthouse by virginia woolf, 4. middlemarch by george eliot (mary ann evans), 5. harry potter by j.k. rowling, 6. half of a yellow sun by chimamanda ngozi adichie, 7. the handmaid’s tale by margaret atwood, 8. beloved by toni morrison, 9. white teeth by zadie smith, 10. little fires everywhere by celeste ng, 11. the broken earth by n.k jemisin, 12. the god of small things by arundhati roy, 13. the bell jar by sylvia plath, 14. the house of the spirits by isabel allende, 15. parable of the sower by octavia e. butler, 16. the color purple by alice walker, 17. murder on the orient express by agatha christie, 18. the namesake by jhumpa lahiri, 19. i know why the caged bird sings by maya angelou, 20. neapolitan novels by elena ferrante, 21. little women by louisa may alcott, 22. gilead by marilynne robinson, 23. earthsea series by ursula k. le guin, 24. the joy luck club by amy tan, 25. interpreter of maladies by jhumpa lahiri, 26. rebecca by daphne du maurier, 27. the secret history by donna tartt, 28. the haunting of hill house by shirley jackson, 29. jane eyre by charlotte brontë, 30. their eyes were watching god by zora neale hurston, why is it important to highlight books written by female authors, are there any genres in which female authors particularly excel.

One of the most enduring literary classics written is  Pride and Prejudice . Its critique of the 19th-century social and gender dynamics shifted social attitudes. This is an important feat, especially for women and their social mobility.

Before its success, it took 14 years for Austen to reinvent her novel after getting rejected by a publishing house. But she stuck to her feminist perspective, even writing under the pseudonym “By a Lady.” Through the book, she showcases how female writers and characters can be witty, complex, and independent.

Some refer to  Pride and Prejudice  as “chick lit.” In reality, Austen thought that it wasn’t serious enough. After all, the novel might be lighthearted, but it still tackles serious issues of her time. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Angry people are not always wise.” Jane Austen ,  Pride and Prejudice

Frankenstein  is famously known for its monster that society jousted out and forced into isolation. It delves into themes of prejudice, free will, and ambition. Even more fascinating is Shelley’s accomplishment in British literature. She successfully presents a fresh take on Gothic science fiction via her writings.

It’s no wonder that Shelley is sometimes called “The Mother of Science Fiction.” Her debut novel,  Frankenstein , centers on something that can be true during the book’s publication. Instead of magic or supernatural forces, Shelley uses scientific concepts. Through the book, she offers readers a different type of horror closer to reality. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Beware; for I am fearless and therefore powerful.” Mary Shelley,  Frankenstein

To the Lighthouse  is only one of Virginia Woolf’s contributions to the literary world. She was also an enthusiastic essayist who wrote about literary history, politics, and art. In the novel, the lighthouse signifies the character’s obvious goals. But it also represents their struggle to reach them.

Here, the English writer unveils the complicated bond between family and domesticity. She also points out how women and men clash via detailed monologues and tactful perceptions. Readers feel like they live along with the characters through her writing. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Beauty was not everything. Beauty had this penalty — it came too readily, came too completely. It stilled life — froze it.” Virginia Woolf,   To the Lighthouse

Victorian novelist George Eliot’s  Middlemarch  earned her high praises, including those from Dickens and Thackeray. With her rich knowledge of European literature and languages, she created a well-thought-out and amusing book about marriage, its imperfections, and happiness.

The book introduces an intricate web of characters and their lives, unfolding right before the readers’ eyes. Victorian realism is central to Eliot’s astute portrayal of the book’s cast and vivid imagery of English rural life. Aside from successfully intermingling various P.O.V.s, the book discusses education, political reform, and many more. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“What do we live for, if it is not to make life less difficult for each other?” George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans) ,  Middlemarch

Most know of the lonely orphaned boy who discovered he was a wizard. The series then takes its audience to an exciting adventure of fantasy and sophisticated world-building. This is what made  Harry Potter  etch its existence as one of the world’s most beloved tales.

Its author , J.K. Rowling, is an inspiring woman in and of herself. Devoting 17 years of her life to writing the entire series highlights her commitment to the art and all the minds motivated by her New York Times Best Seller fiction. Aside from penning her critically acclaimed novels, Rowling is also a keen fighter for children’s rights and care systems. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.” J.K. Rowling ,  Harry Potter

Half of a Yellow Sun  centers around the Nigerian Civil War. Though the scenes in the novel are made up, Adichie’s work is many’s introductions to the Biafran discord — a non-fiction conflict that happened in 1967.

The book vividly presents violence and war, its consequences, and its influences. There’s death, sickness, and other brutal realities that not every author has the courage to write about. Adichie’s non-linear storytelling makes her works effective while still engaging and realistic. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Racism should never have happened, and so you don’t get a cookie for reducing it.” Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie,   Half of a Yellow Sun

The Handmaid’s Tale  is a harrowing story of America’s imagined future. In it, the U.S. doesn’t exist. It’s replaced by Gilead, a totalitarian state where women can’t bear children except for the handmaids.

Atwood’s work reminds the present and future generations that the ability to conceive is not something any government should control. Besides this main thesis is the author’s evaluation of the importance of freedom, the power of fear, and the necessity of change. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Ignoring isn’t the same as ignorance, you have to work at it.” Margaret Atwood,   The Handmaid’s Tale

Toni Morrison, the first black woman to get a Nobel Prize in Literature, examines enslaved African Americans’ anguish in  Beloved . The novel masterfully demonstrates the legacy of slavery and the history of these dark times via the protagonist, Sethe. Although she becomes a free woman, Sethe is still held captive by her trauma.

Morrison’s goal in writing the novel is to preserve black people’s history. With crucial, explicit narrative and details, she did just that. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Definitions belong to the definers, not the defined.” Toni Morrison ,  Beloved

A must-read take on modern society is Zadie Smith’s  White Teeth.  Here, she explores cultural identity, race, and more themes. She picks apart the relationship between the British population and the country’s immigrants through the lives of two men. Samad and Archie discuss the war, their families in London, and other things friends would discuss.

Smith’s novel is full of sharp dialogue, seamlessly blending metaphors and facts. She also tasks the readers to think not only of the characters in her novel but of the concepts within their stories that mirror the realities of the world. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Full stories are as rare as honesty.” Zadie Smith,  White Teeth

Ng proved how well she writes family dynamics and peels away illusions of perfection in  Little Fires Everywhere.  A Chinese-American baby, a heartbreaking custody battle, and an idyllic suburban street — the plot seems straightforward, but it isn’t.

Ng mixes elements that make the book both character and plot-driven. Additionally, the novel reflects the importance of family, its influence on a personal level, and its effect on one’s community. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Sometimes you need to scorch everything to the ground and start over. After the burning, the soil is richer, and new things can grow. People are like that, too. They start over. They find a way.” Celeste Ng ,  Little Fires Everywhere

N.K. Jemisin displays her mastery of her craft via the trilogy  The Broken Earth.  She commands a rare narrative in her world-building and fantasy tales. For instance, she uses parallels between natural disasters and human conditions in the book.

Despite the seemingly far-fetched setting of her novel, Jemisin still dissects common themes today. This includes climate change, racism, and motherly love. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Home is what you take with you, not what you leave behind.” N.K. Jemisin ,  The Broken Earth

The God of Small Things  digs into various themes that are still very relevant today. The book breaks down subjects of loyalty, colonialism, education, and social class through the eyes of fraternal twins.

Via the book, Arundhati Roy courageously highlights the discrimination India puts its citizens under. She also criticizes the territory’s treatment of its people. Aside from opening a necessary discourse over her country of origin’s mess, she’s also a human rights and environmental activist. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Change is one thing. Acceptance is another.” Arundhati Roy ,  The God of Small Things

Anyone will relate to  The Bell Jar’s  Esther Greenwood’s dilemma — “Should I be the person  I want  to be? Or should I be the person  society expects  me to be?” As a prominent poet with a confessional writing style, Plath takes her readers on a personal and emotional journey of identity via her writings.

Aside from her jarring and sincere works, Plath is known for her controversial takes and transparent poems. Her usual topics are her distressing marriage, mental anguish, and tumultuous relationship with her father. In the novel, the bell jar symbolizes the main character’s suppressed freedom, making it a semi-autobiographical work of the American writer. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“If you expect nothing from somebody you are never disappointed.” Sylvia Plath ,  The Bell Jar

Allende owes her character and plot writing to various authors . One that gave her a lasting impression is Harper Lee’s  To Kill a Mockingbird.  That’s why it’s unsurprising that she has strong characters and intermingling storylines of personal affairs, depravity, and revolution.

Though the themes are presented alongside magical realism,  The House of the Spirits  underscores timely issues of class and women’s difficulties in a patriarchal society. The novel spans four generations and culminates in a cycle that seems to never end. It also portrays the class divide in Chile, paving the way for expected injustices. Readers journey along the characters’ rise in power and eventual fall and demise. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Words are not that important when you recognize intentions.” Isabel Allende ,  The House of the Spirits

The  Parable of the Sower  highlights the importance of embracing change and repeatedly stresses God’s influence on constant but necessary changes. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, readers follow a young woman’s journey as she discovers a religion that keeps her hope alive and encounters others.

Butler is a pioneer in African-American science fiction writers . Her work aims to make a better future as she tackles issues of political disparity, women’s rights, and racism. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“In order to rise from its own ashes, a Phoenix first must burn.” Octavia E. Butler ,  Parable of the Sower

The Color Purple  is   spread out over a series of letters, with the main character, Celie, addressing God and her sister, Nettie. It’s regarded as one of the no-nonsense books that vividly details the abuse women face.

Still, Celie’s abuse at the hands of many people didn’t stop her from appreciating the good things in her life. Alice Walker’s power shines through during these scenes. The abuse is brutal and graphic, but the sisterhood and hope are just as striking. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“I think us here to wonder, myself. To wonder. To ask. And that in wondering bout the big things and asking bout the big things, you learn about the little ones, almost by accident. But you never know nothing more about the big things than you start out with. The more I wonder, the more I love.” Alice Walker ,  The Color Purple

Murder on the Orient Express  takes a special spot in detective fiction for its equally amusing yet disturbing murder and plot twists. As readers finish the book, they are left to ponder over justice and ethics.

Known for her prolific detective novels and short stories, Agatha Christie rightfully earned her place as a top-tier suspense writer. Her short sentences and psychological spin on her writings make each a page-turner. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“The impossible could not have happened, therefore the impossible must be possible in spite of appearances.” Agatha Christie ,  Murder on the Orient Express

As its name suggests,  The Namesake’s  core theme is the reinvention of oneself and owning one’s identity. The story follows an Indian family’s life as immigrants in America. In the beginning, the story is told from a young woman’s and mother’s perspective. As she’s attached to her Indian heritage, she’s homesick and devastated. But through the novel, readers see her become more and more independent.

Lahiri’s painting of loneliness on a foreign island is poignant and relatable through the pages of her book. It’s an excellent depiction of Indian-American life, including the difficulties and the triumphs. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Remember that you and I made this journey together to a place where there was nowhere left to go.” Jhumpa Lahiri,  The Namesake

Watch Marguerite’s transformation from a young girl to a young woman in  I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.  Readers join her as she lives in the U.S.U.S. South, facing discrimination, abuse, and poverty.

Maya Angelou’s autobiographical fiction highlights self-expression amidst oppression and suffering. This makes it historically significant as it tackles crucial issues of indignities the black community faces. At its core, the novel calls for repressed voices to call out and sing for freedom. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” Maya Angelou ,  I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

A story of friendship amidst postwar Italy; that’s what the author calls attention to, using the pseudonym Elena Ferrante in  Neapolitan Novels.  Through the narrator, the readers are taken on a 50-year-old friendship overview of the female’s moral and psychological growth.

The series comprises four novels, beginning with the characters as six-year-old girls, then young women, and finally, old comrades. Aside from the power of friendship between the women, the novels underline class struggles, women’s rights, and motherhood. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Each of us narrates our life as it suits us.” Elena Ferrante ,  Neapolitan Novels

Little Women  is about four sister’s lives, first as young girls and then as young women. It’s a story of what it means to be a woman despite mayhem. In the novel, it’s the American Civil War. At the time of its publication, women are portrayed far from how Alcott wrote Amy, Beth, Jo, and Meg.  Little Women  is a revolutionary take on women’s roles and expectations.

Alcott traced her life in the book, with each character representing herself and her sisters. That’s why the realism in  Little Women  is astonishing and true to life. It’s a story of persistence, family, and forgiveness. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Watch and pray, dear, never get tired of trying, and never think it is impossible to conquer your fault.” Louisa May Alcott ,  Little Women

Gilead  is about a 76-year-old reverend’s record of his life that he put into letters for his then seven-year-old son to read when he grew up. The letters-slash-journals are his account of what his life has been, his daily musings, and the lessons he collected.

Robinson created the fictional “Gilead, Iowa” but named it after a biblical passage as a symbol of hope. Throughout the novel, she alludes to biblical parables and passages. One is the parable of the Prodigal Son, a fitting choice for a book that emphasizes the gap between fathers and sons. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Memory can make a thing seem to have been much more than it was.” Marilynne Robinson,  Gilead

Le Guin’s feat in obtaining a spot in the male-dominated science fiction genre is supported by her works that share a common future universe. This includes the story of the powerful wizard, Ged, in the  Earthsea Series. 

Although the main theme of this coming-of-age tale is the ethical and correct use of power, it also discusses anarchism, gender, and the environment. Readers follow the wizard’s isolation and transformation and reflect on daily life. Read it on Amazon; click here .

Check out the  best science fiction authors  of all time.

“It is very hard for evil to take hold of the unconsenting soul.” Ursula K. Le Guin ,  Earthsea Series

Amy Tan motivated many Chinese-American writers to show off their work to the world via  The Joy Luck Club . It follows four Chinese immigrant households and their club, where they eat and play mahjong. This historical fiction gained its notoriety for being the first novel to blatantly examine Asian-American issues like assimilation and intergenerational trauma. Tan’s experiences as a first-generation Chinese American make her writing vivid and authentic. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“If you can’t change your fate, change your attitude.” Amy Tan ,  The Joy Luck Club

Many recognized Jhumpa Lahiri’s cultural insight through  Interpreter of Maladies . The collection delves into the clashing culture and beliefs between Indian and Indian-American communities.

She does this in an effective way by presenting this divide alongside universal themes that even other nationalities can relate to. The short stories talk of marriage, communication, and assimilation. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Still, there are times I am bewildered by each mile I have traveled, each meal I have eaten, each person I have known, each room in which I have slept. As ordinary as it all appears, there are times when it is beyond my imagination.” Jhumpa Lahiri,  Interpreter of Maladies

Experience a different kind of haunting in  Rebecca . Readers follow a young woman’s battle with insecurities as she lives with her new husband. In his estate, she constantly needs to fight against his ex-wife’s ghost — not in the literal sense, but her memories that are still palpable in the estate and its people.

Through the heroine feeling inferior to a dead woman, the author successfully conveys her obsession and jealousy. Daphne du Maurier’s skills in Gothic literature are apparent in her mysterious and atmospheric novels. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Happiness is not a possession to be prized, it is a quality of thought, a state of mind.” Daphne Du Maurier ,  Rebecca

Have you ever heard of a reverse murder mystery? That’s what Donna Tartt achieves in  The Secret History.  Whereas conventional murder mystery novels present a victim and urge readers to find the killers, Tartt starts with the murder and lets readers uncover why the victim was killed. Additionally, the author uses parallels between the students-slash-killers and Greek tragedies.

The book is a dark and disturbing tale with no heroes. Despite this, the characters still persist to fascinate many readers. With friendship, power dynamics, and mystery themes,  The Secret History  remains one of the top picks in psychological fiction. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Forgive me, for all the things I did but mostly for the ones that I did not.” Donna Tartt,  The Secret History

Follow Eleanor as she lives in a haunted house so that Dr. Montague can get his research done on the supernatural in  The Haunting of Hill House . It’s a literary classic considered a distinguished work in the horror genre.

What makes the novel stand out is Jackson’s choice of putting the readers inside Eleanor’s mind. In doing so, they question if what she’s experiencing is real or just a figment of her illusions. Eleanor then becomes an unreliable narrator, making readers question the validity of whatever is happening in Hill House. Aside from this, the novel never answers what makes the “supernatural” possible or if they exist at all. Overall, this makes the book more suspenseful and curious. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“No live organism can continue for long to exist sanely under conditions of absolute reality; even larks and katydids are supposed, by some, to dream.” Shirley Jackson ,  The Haunting of Hill House

Jane Eyre  is the protagonist’s account of her life. The novel opens when she is an abused young girl in her adoptive family’s home. As a young woman, she became a governess. There, she meets and falls in love with the master of the estate. Despite this, she refuses to be his mistress, leaves and chooses her independence.

Although the protagonist lives a life filled with death, she forgives and moves forward. It’s an intimate book that lets the readers understand Jane’s innermost thoughts, morality, and life decisions. Moreover, Charlotte Brontë, alongside her sisters Anne and Emily, wrote under gender-neutral pseudonyms so readers would take them more seriously at that time. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.” Charlotte Brontë,  Jane Eyre

Their Eyes Were Watching God  effortlessly blends beautiful prose with Southern black slang. This creates a unique and captivating narrative. The novel follows a strong and resilient black woman with vivid descriptions of the Deep South. The book explores a young woman’s life, love, and evolution through womanhood. Read it on Amazon; click here .

“Love makes your soul crawl out from its hiding place.” Zora Neale Hurston ,  Their Eyes Were Watching God

Looking for more? Check out our guide with authors like Kate Quinn .

FAQs About The Best Books Written by Female Authors

The main significance of putting female authors in the spotlight is that it promotes gender equality in literature. Doing so guarantees diverse voices are heard and celebrated. It also helps challenge stereotypes and biases by showcasing various perspectives and experiences. Additionally, women authors often bring unique insights and storytelling styles that enrich the literary landscape.

Female authors excel in many genres but are more prominent in memoirs, historical, and contemporary fiction. Women authors also make up most of the feminist literature genre.

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Girl, Woman, Other: A Novel (Booker Prize Winner) Kindle Edition

NATIONAL BESTSELLER WINNER OF THE BOOKER PRIZE

“A must-read about modern Britain and womanhood . . . An impressive, fierce novel about the lives of black British families, their struggles, pains, laughter, longings and loves . . . Her style is passionate, razor-sharp, brimming with energy and humor. There is never a single moment of dullness in this book and the pace does not allow you to turn away from its momentum.” —Booker Prize Judges

Bernardine Evaristo is the winner of the 2019 Booker Prize and the first black woman to receive this highest literary honor in the English language. Girl, Woman, Other is a magnificent portrayal of the intersections of identity and a moving and hopeful story of an interconnected group of Black British women that paints a vivid portrait of the state of contemporary Britain and looks back to the legacy of Britain’s colonial history in Africa and the Caribbean.

The twelve central characters of this multi-voiced novel lead vastly different lives: Amma is a newly acclaimed playwright whose work often explores her Black lesbian identity; her old friend Shirley is a teacher, jaded after decades of work in London’s funding-deprived schools; Carole, one of Shirley’s former students, is a successful investment banker; Carole’s mother Bummi works as a cleaner and worries about her daughter’s lack of rootedness despite her obvious achievements. From a nonbinary social media influencer to a 93-year-old woman living on a farm in Northern England, these unforgettable characters also intersect in shared aspects of their identities, from age to race to sexuality to class.

Sparklingly witty and filled with emotion, centering voices we often see othered, and written in an innovative fast-moving form that borrows technique from poetry, Girl, Woman, Other is a polyphonic and richly textured social novel that shows a side of Britain we rarely see, one that reminds us of all that connects us to our neighbors, even in times when we are encouraged to be split apart.

• Print length 456 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publisher Grove Press, Black Cat
• Publication date November 5, 2019
• File size 4802 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
• See all details

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Editorial Reviews

NATIONAL BESTSELLER WINNER OF THE BOOKER PRIZE 2019 Named One of Barack Obama’s Favorite Books of 2019 Named Roxane Gay’s Favorite Book of 2019 Named Author of the Year by the British Book Awards Winner of the Indie Book Award for Fiction (UK) and the British Fiction Book of the Year Award

Gold Medal for the 2020 BookTube Prize for Fiction Shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction, the Dublin Literary Award, the Gordon Burn Prize, a Publishing Triangle Award, the Goldsboro Glass Bell Award, the Orwell Prize for Political Fiction, and the Visionary Honours Award Longlisted for the Australian Book Industry Award Named an Amazon Best Book of the Year Named a Best Book of the Year by the New Yorker , Washington Post , NPR, Entertainment Weekly , Time , Vogue , Seattle Times , Literary Hub , Guardian , Sunday Times , Financial Times , Times Literary Supplement , Kirkus Reviews , Shelf Awareness , New York Public Library, Chicago Public Library, Washington Independent Review of Books , New Statesman , Evening Standard , and the Daily Telegraph

“ Girl, Woman, Other received half a Booker Prize, but it deserves all the glory . . . A breathtaking symphony of black women’s voices, a clear-eyed survey of contemporary challenges that’s nevertheless wonderfully life-affirming . . . Together, all these women present a cross-section of Britain that feels godlike in its scope and insight.” —Ron Charles, Washington Post

“A big, busy novel with a large root system . . . Evaristo has a gift for appraising the lives of her characters with sympathy and grace while gently skewering some of their pretensions . . . Evaristo’s lines are long, like Walt Whitman’s or Allen Ginsberg’s, and there are no periods at the ends of them. There’s a looseness to her tone that gives this novel its buoyancy. Evaristo’s wit helps too.” —Dwight Garner, New York Times

“The ambition of this novel, the inventive structure and syntax, the grand scope, all make for the most absorbing book I read all year. The characters are so richly drawn, so intimately known by Evaristo, and so perfectly rendered on the page. This novel is a master class in storytelling. It is absolutely unforgettable. When I turned the final page, I felt the ache of having to leave the world Evaristo created but I also felt the excitement of getting to read the book all over again. It should have won the Booker alone. It deserves all the awards and then some.” —Roxane Gay, Gay Magazine

“Exuberant, capacious, and engaging . . . Complex, astute, painful, funny, enlightening, and most of all enjoyable . . . An elegant and compulsively readable account of the black women of England . . . Plumbing the many dimensions of her characters’ lives, Evaristo revels in universals and singularities alike . . . The final scene triumphantly pulls together the novel’s dominant themes. I laughed, I cried, I turned the last page fully satisfied.” —Rebecca Steinitz, Boston Globe

“A sprawling book, but too intimate to be considered an epic . . . Each of these characters—and indeed the doting spouses, or abusive girlfriends, or foul-mouthed school chums, or lecherous preachers, or the rest of the human parade—feels specific, and vibrant, and not quite complete, insofar as the best fictional characters remain as elusive and surprising as real people are. This is a feat; the whole book is . . . Evaristo is a gifted portraitist, and you marvel at both the people she conjures and the unexpected way she reveals them to you . . . Yes, prizes are silly. But sometimes they’re deserved.” —Rumaan Alam, New Republic

“[ Girl, Woman, Other is] about almost everything. Politics, parenthood, sexuality, racism and colorism, immigration, domestic violence, infidelity, friendship, love, all the ways we misunderstand each other, the way life surprises us with its unfolding. This is a partial list . . . Bernardine is here to turn on the lights, give you your money’s worth, and let you decide for yourself.” —Marion Winik, Minneapolis Star-Tribune

“Deserves every accolade, and more . . . A creative and technical marvel—a sprawling, unpunctuated, and improbably joyful account of twelve interconnected characters in modern-day Britain . . . A book so bursting with wit, empathy, and insight, its clear-eyed reflections on race and feminism hardly ever feel like polemics; there’s too much pure, vivid life on every page.” — Entertainment Weekly

“[Evaristo] is a master at parsing out individual voices while also collaging them into a beautiful chorus, exploring the ways identities and people’s lives intersect.” —Katie Yee, Literary Hub

“Compulsively readable . . . There’s something truly pleasurable to watching a virtuoso at work, and Evaristo’s ability to switch between voices, between places, and between moods brings to mind an extraordinary conductor and her orchestra.” — Paris Review

“ Girl, Woman, Other changed my thinking.” —Tom Stoppard, Times Literary Supplement

“Not just one of my favorite books of this year, but one of the most insightful books I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading . . . In this inspired piece of writing, Evaristo examines the realities and complexities of womanhood in the UK.” —Nicola Sturgeon, Guardian

“Look no further than Bernardine Evaristo’s Girl, Woman, Other for the most distinctive novel of the year . . . Superlatives pale in the shadow of the monumental achievement of Girl, Woman, Other . Few adjectives suffice. It’s hard not to overpraise this brilliant novel. Evaristo’s verbal acrobatics do things language shouldn’t be able to do. It’s a Cirque du Soleil of fiction. Readers should put down whatever book they’re reading and immerse themselves in this one. Bernardine Evaristo is the writer of the year. Girl, Woman, Other is the book of the decade.” — Washington Independent Review of Books

“The novel flows seamlessly, like water, from thought to thought, character to character . . . Eminently readable and emotionally intense.” — New York Journal of Books

“Magnificent . . . As she creates a space for immigrants and the children of immigrants to tell their stories, Evaristo explores a range of topics both contemporary and timeless. There is room for everyone to find a home in this extraordinary novel. Beautiful and necessary.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“Evaristo beguiles with her exceptional depictions of a range of experiences of black British women . . . A stunning powerhouse of vibrant characters and heartbreaks.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Courageous . . . Hearing from mothers and their children, teachers and their students across generations, readers might expect that they’ll get to see just what these characters can’t know about one another, but they won’t imagine the dazzling specificities nor the unspooling dramas; they will be entertained, educated, and riveted.” — Booklist (starred review)

“ Girl, Woman, Other , the intermingling stories of generations of black British women told in a gloriously rich and readable free verse, will surely be seen as a landmark in British fiction.” — Guardian

“In Girl, Woman, Other , Evaristo adopts an even bigger canvas, with a sparkling new novel of interconnected stories . . . In Evaristo’s eighth book she continues to expand and enhance our literary canon. If you want to understand modern day Britain, this is the writer to read.” — New Statesman

“Brims with vitality . . . The form [Evaristo] chooses here is breezily dismissive of convention. The flow of this prose-poetry hybrid feels absolutely right, with the pace and layout of words matched to the lilt and intonation of the characters’ voices . . . She captures the shared experience that make us, as she puts it in her dedication, ‘members of the human family.’” — Financial Times

“The voices of black women come to the fore in a swirl of interrelated stories that cover the past century of British life. Wide-ranging, witty and wise, it’s a book that does new things with the novel form.” — Sunday Times

“This masterful novel is a choral love song to black womanhood.” — Elle (UK)

“Evaristo is known for narratives that weave through time and place with crackling originality. Girl, Woman, Other is no exception.” — Vogue

“Ambitious, flowing and all-encompassing, [Evaristo] jumps from life to life weaving together personal tales and voices in an offbeat narrative that’ll leave your mind in an invigorated whirl. This is an exceptional book that unites poetry, social history, women’s voices and beyond. You have to order it right now in fact.” — Stylist

“Spanning a century and following the intertwined lives of twelve people, this is a paean to what it means to be black, British and female. Evaristo’s prose hums with life as characters seem to step off the page fully formed. At turns funny and sad, tender and true, this book deserves to win awards.” — Red

“Marvelous . . . [The characters] sing off the page as they negotiate their own way of being through the prisms of race and gender. In prose that defies many of the rules of punctuation, and feels all the more immediate for it . . . Summons up a limitless canvas of black female experience that’s by turns funny, acutely observed and heart-snagging. Terrific.” — Metro

“A magnificent read from a writer with a gift for humanity.” — Observer

“Beautiful, hilarious and moving homage to what it means to be black and British. Girl, Woman, Other celebrates the rich variety of black women across generations.” — Refinery29

“Bernardine Evaristo can take any story from any time and turn it into something vibrating with life.” —Ali Smith, author of Spring

“There is an astonishing uniqueness to Bernardine Evaristo’s writing, but especially showcased in Girl, Woman, Other . How she can speak through twelve different people and give them each such distinct and vibrant voices is astonishing. I loved it. So much.” —Candice Carty-Williams, author of Queenie

“Hilarious, heart-breaking, and honest. Generations of women and the people they have loved and unloved—the complexities of race, sex, gender, politics, friendship, love, fear and regret. The complications of success, the difficulties of intimacy. I truly haven’t enjoyed reading a book in so long.” —Warsan Shire, author of Teaching My Grandmother How to Give Birth

“Bernardine Evaristo’s books are always exciting, always subversive, a reminder of the boundless possibilities of literature and the great worth in reaching for them. Her body of work is incredible.” —Diana Evans, author of Ordinary People

“Once again, Bernardine Evaristo reminds us she is one of Britain’s best writers, an iconic and unique voice, filled with warmth, subtly and humanity. Girl, Woman, Other is an exceptional work, presenting an alternative history of Britain and a dissection of modern Britain that is witty, exhilarating and wise.” —Nikesh Shukla, author and editor of The Good Immigrant

“Bernardine Evaristo is without doubt one of the most important voices in contemporary British literature. Her phenomenal writing gets at the heart of what affects and concerns us most in these times.” —Jacob Ross, author of The Bone Readers

“ Girl, Woman, Other is brilliant. I feel like a ghost walking in and out and in again on different people’s lives, different others. Some I feel close to, some I feel I must have met and some are so ‘other’ that I have to stretch myself to see them. Mind expanding.” —Philippa Perry, author of How To Be a Parent

“Bernardine Evaristo is one of those writers who should be read by everyone, everywhere. Her tales marry down-to-earth characters with engrossing storylines about the UK today.” —Elif Shafak, author of Three Daughters of Eve

“Bernardine Evaristo is the most daring, ambitious, imaginative and innovative of writers, and Girl, Woman, Other is a fantastic novel that takes fiction and black women’s stories into new directions.” —Inua Ellams, author of The Half God of Rainfall

“For a fresh and inspiring take on writing about the African diaspora, there’s nothing like a new book by Bernardine Evaristo. Somehow she does it every time!” —Margaret Busby, editor of Daughters of Africa

About the Author

Bernardine Evaristo is the 2019 winner of the Booker Prize for Girl, Woman, Other , which was a national bestseller and a winner and finalist for many awards including the Women’s Prize for Fiction and the Dublin Literary Award. Evaristo is the author of seven other books that explore aspects of the African diaspora. Her writing spans verse fiction, short fiction, poetry, essays, literary criticism, and drama. Evaristo is President of the Royal Society of Literature, Professor of Creative Writing at Brunel University London, and an Honorary Fellow of St Anne’s College, Oxford. She received an OBE in 2020, and lives in London with her husband. Her most recent book is Manifesto: On Never Giving Up.

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07WGWQSPJ
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Grove Press, Black Cat (November 5, 2019)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 5, 2019
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 4802 KB
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 456 pages
• #942 in Women's Literary Fiction
• #1,076 in Gay & Lesbian (Kindle Store)
• #1,162 in Mothers & Children Fiction

About the author

Bernardine evaristo.

British writer Bernardine Evaristo is the award-winning author of seven books including her new novel, Mr Loverman, about a 74 yr old Caribbean London man who is closet homosexual (Hamish Hamilton/Penguin, 2013 & Akashic USA, 2014). Her writing is characterised by experimentation, daring, subversion and challenging the myths of various Afro-diasporic histories and identities. Her books range in genre from poetry, verse-novels, a novel-with-verse, a novella, short stories, prose novels, radio and theatre drama, and literary essays and criticism. Her eighth book will be a collection of her short stories, published by in Italian by Carocci in 2015. The first monograph on her work, Fiction Unbound by Sebnem Toplu, was published in August 2011 by Cambridge Scholars Publishing. The second will be published by Carocci in 2015.

Her awards include the Jerwood Fiction Uncovered Prize, EMMA Best Book Award, Big Red Read, Orange Youth Panel Award, NESTA Fellowship Award and Arts Council Writer's Award. Her books have been a Best Book of the Year 13 times in British newspapers and magazines and The Emperor's Babe was a Times 'Book of the Decade'. Hello Mum has been chosen as one of twenty titles for World Book Night in 2014. She was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 2004, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts in 2006, and she received an MBE in 2009.

Her books are: MR LOVERMAN (Penguin, 2013), HELLO MUM (Penguin 2010), LARA (Bloodaxe 2009), BlONDE ROOTS (Penguin 2008), SOUL TOURISTS (Penguin 2005), THE EMPEROR'S BABE (Penguin 2001), the first version of LARA (ARP 1997), ISLAND OF ABRAHAM (Peepal Tree, 1994). For more information visit BOOKS. Her verse novel The Emperor's Babe was adapted into a BBC Radio 4 play in 2013 and her novella Hello Mum was broadcast as a Radio 4 play in 2012. Her writing - essays, articles and non-fiction - has appeared in many publications.

She has edited and guest edited several publications. She is the co-editor of two recent anthologies and a special issue of Wasafiri magazine: Black Britain: Beyond Definition, which celebrated and reevaluated the black writing scene in Britain. In 2012 she was Guest Editor of the winter issue of Poetry Review, Britain's leading poetry journal, in its centenary year. Her issue, Offending Frequencies, featured more poets of colour than had ever previously been published in a single issue of the journal, as well as many female, radical, experimental and outspoken voices.

She is also a literary critic for the national newspapers such as the Guardian and Independent and has judged many literary awards including the National Poetry Competition, TS Eliot Prize, Orange First Novel Award and the Next Generation Poet's List. In 2012 she was Chair of the Caine Prize for African Fiction and Chair of The Commonwealth Short Story Prize. That year she also founded the Brunel University African Poetry Prize. She is Reader in Creative Writing at Brunel University and designed and teaches the anuual six month Guardian¬-University of East Anglia 'How to Tell a Story' fiction course in London.

She has toured widely in the UK and since 1997 she has accepted invitations to take part in over 100 international visits as a writer. She gives readings and delivers talks, keynotes, workshops and courses and she has held visiting fellowships and professorships.

Bernardine Evaristo was born in Woolwich, south east London, the fourth of eight children, to an English mother and Nigerian father. Her father was a welder and local Labour councillor and her mother a schoolteacher. She was educated at Eltham Hill Girls Grammar School, the Rose Bruford College of Speech & Drama, and Goldsmiths, University of London, where she earned a PhD in Creative Writing. She spent her teenage years acting at Greenwich Young People's Theatre. She lives in London with her husband.

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Set in the racially charged South during the Depression, the novel follows a young girl and her older brother as they navigate their small town's societal norms and prejudices. Their father, a lawyer, is appointed to defend a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, forcing the children to confront the harsh realities of racism and injustice. The story explores themes of morality, innocence, and the loss of innocence through the eyes of the young protagonists.

Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman

"Noughts and Crosses" is a thought-provoking novel set in a dystopian society where racial segregation is reversed. It follows the lives of two main characters: a girl from the ruling class (Crosses) and a boy from the underclass (Noughts). Despite their different backgrounds, they form a deep bond that eventually turns into a romantic relationship, challenging the societal norms and prejudices. The novel explores themes of love, racism, and power, offering a poignant commentary on the repercussions of societal divisions.

Heartburn by Nora Ephron

The book is a witty and autobiographical novel that follows the life of Rachel Samstat, a pregnant food writer living in Washington D.C., who discovers her husband is having an affair with another woman. As her marriage crumbles, Rachel must navigate the complexities of love, betrayal, and heartache, all while dealing with her own impending motherhood. Through a blend of humor and pathos, the protagonist uses her sharp wit and passion for cooking to cope with her personal turmoil, sharing recipes and reflections along the way, ultimately finding strength and self-discovery amidst the chaos of her dissolving relationship.

Swimming Home by Deborah Levy

In "Swimming Home," a vacation in the idyllic French Riviera is disrupted when a family of British tourists encounters an enigmatic woman named Kitty Finch, who swims naked into the villa's pool. Her presence becomes a catalyst for the unraveling of relationships, as she becomes intimately involved with the family, particularly the poet father. The novel explores themes of depression, the complexities of the human psyche, and the impact of an outsider on the fragile dynamics of family life, all while maintaining a tense, poetic atmosphere that culminates in a haunting conclusion.

Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel

The novel is a historical fiction set in the 1500s, during the reign of King Henry VIII. The story is told from the perspective of Thomas Cromwell, a man of humble beginnings who rises to become the King's chief minister. The narrative explores the political and religious upheavals of the time, including King Henry's break with the Catholic Church and his controversial marriage to Anne Boleyn. The protagonist's cunning, ambition, and survival instincts are central to the plot as he navigates the treacherous waters of the Tudor court.

Bel Canto by Ann Patchett

In an unnamed South American country, a lavish birthday party is thrown for a powerful businessman, with a famous opera singer as the guest of honor. The party is interrupted by a group of terrorists who take everyone hostage, demanding the release of their imprisoned comrades. As weeks turn into months, the hostages and their captors form unexpected bonds. The story explores the relationships that develop under these extraordinary circumstances, and the transformative power of music and love.

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

Set in a dystopian future, this novel presents a society where women are stripped of their rights and are classified into various roles based on their fertility and societal status. The protagonist is a handmaid, a class of women used solely for their reproductive capabilities by the ruling class. The story is a chilling exploration of the extreme end of misogyny, where women are reduced to their biological functions, and a critique of religious fundamentalism.

Selected Stories of Alice Munro by Alice Munro

This collection of short stories offers a comprehensive view of the author's narrative talent, showcasing her ability to create complex characters and situations that reflect the human condition. Set in various locations, from small Canadian towns to exotic foreign locales, each story delves into the intricate relationships, personal struggles, and quiet triumphs of its characters. The author's writing is marked by her keen observation, psychological insight, and the ability to convey the extraordinary within the ordinary, making each story a unique exploration of life's complexities.

The Power by Naomi Alderman

"The Power" by Naomi Alderman is a speculative fiction novel that imagines a world where women develop the ability to produce electrical shocks from their bodies, giving them a newfound physical power over men. The novel follows the lives of four characters as they navigate this new reality and the societal and political upheaval that comes with it. Through their experiences, the book explores themes of gender, power, and the corrupting nature of authority.

I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith

"I Capture the Castle" is a coming-of-age novel that tells the story of 17-year-old Cassandra Mortmain and her eccentric family living in a dilapidated English castle during the 1930s. Cassandra's father is a reclusive writer suffering from writer's block and her stepmother is a bohemian artist. The family's life changes dramatically when two American brothers inherit the estate. The novel, written in diary format, explores themes of love, poverty, and the transition from adolescence to adulthood.

City Of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert

The novel is a captivating exploration of the life of Vivian Morris, a young woman who arrives in 1940s New York City with a tarnished college record and little direction. Thrust into the vibrant world of a quirky theater company, Vivian is swept up in a whirlwind of showbiz, glamour, and adventure. As she navigates relationships, scandal, and self-discovery, the story unfolds through her reflections as an older woman, offering a poignant look at the intersection of youth, freedom, and the complexities of female sexuality. The narrative is both a love letter to a bygone era and a deeply personal journey of a woman finding her place in a rapidly changing world.

The Five by Hallie Rubenhold

"The Five" is a historical non-fiction book that delves into the lives of the five women who were infamously murdered by Jack the Ripper in the East End of London in 1888. The work challenges the long-standing myth that the victims were all prostitutes, instead painting a vivid picture of the harsh realities faced by women in Victorian England. Through meticulous research, the book reconstructs their personal histories, exploring their backgrounds, the societal conditions that contributed to their unfortunate fates, and the misogyny that has overshadowed their stories. The narrative serves as both a poignant tribute to these women and a critical examination of the historical narratives that have marginalized them.

The Secret History by Donna Tartt

A group of six classics students at a small, elite Vermont college, led by a charismatic professor, become entranced by the study of Greek culture and decide to recreate a Dionysian ritual, which ends in a tragic accident. The group, bound by their shared secret, begins to unravel as paranoia and guilt take hold. The novel explores themes of beauty and terror, the allure of the esoteric, and the destructive consequences of obsession.

Trans by Juliet Jacques

"Trans" is a candid and poignant memoir that chronicles the personal journey of transitioning from male to female, exploring the complexities of gender identity and the challenges faced by transgender individuals. The author offers an intimate look into their experiences with gender dysphoria, the medical processes of transitioning, and the social implications of living as their true self. The narrative also delves into the broader cultural and political issues surrounding trans rights and representation, providing a nuanced perspective on the intersection of personal and political in the quest for authenticity and acceptance in society.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

The novel follows the life of Jane Eyre, an orphan who is mistreated by her relatives and sent to a charity school. As she grows up, Jane becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she falls in love with the brooding and mysterious Mr. Rochester. However, she soon learns of a dark secret in his past that threatens their future together. The story is a profound exploration of a woman's self-discovery and her struggle for independence and love in a rigid Victorian society.

The Street by Ann Petry

The novel is a poignant exploration of the struggles faced by a young African American single mother living in Harlem during the 1940s. It delves into the systemic racism and sexism that constrict her life, as she endeavors to create a better future for her son amidst the poverty, violence, and oppressive social forces of the urban landscape. The narrative follows her tenacious fight against the insurmountable barriers imposed by a society that is indifferent to her dreams and her dignity, painting a vivid portrait of resilience and the human spirit's quest for freedom.

Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf

The novel chronicles a day in the life of Clarissa Dalloway, a high-society woman in post-World War I England, as she prepares for a party she is hosting that evening. Throughout the day, she encounters various characters from her past, including a former suitor and a shell-shocked war veteran. The narrative jumps back and forth in time and in and out of different characters' minds, exploring themes of mental illness, existentialism, and the nature of time.

The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri

The book chronicles the divergent paths of two Bengali brothers whose lives are marked by a tragic event during the tumultuous 1960s in Kolkata. The younger brother becomes involved in the Naxalite movement, leading to his untimely death, while the elder brother, a scientist, migrates to America, carrying the weight of grief and responsibility. The narrative spans across generations, exploring the themes of political activism, family ties, and the immigrant experience as it delves into the enduring effects of loss and the search for identity amidst the crosscurrents of history and culture.

The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton

Set during the New Zealand Gold Rush of the 19th century, this novel follows Walter Moody, a prospector who stumbles upon a secret meeting of twelve local men who are trying to solve a series of unsolved crimes. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the crimes, which include a rich man's disappearance, a prostitute's attempted suicide, and a huge fortune found in a drunkard's cottage, are all interconnected. The novel's complex narrative structure, which uses astrology to organize its characters and events, adds another layer of intrigue to the story.

Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

The novel is set in Nigeria during the Biafran War, exploring the impact of the conflict on the lives of its characters. The story is told from the perspective of three characters: a young houseboy, a radical university professor, and the professor's wealthy lover. The narrative delves into themes of love, race, and war, offering a vivid depiction of the horrors of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit.

Five Steps To Happy by Ella Dove

This novel follows the journey of a young woman whose life is turned upside down after a tragic accident results in the amputation of her leg. As she grapples with her new reality, she embarks on a path of self-discovery and healing. With the support of a cast of quirky characters she meets at a rehabilitation center, including a charming fellow patient, she learns to navigate her challenges with resilience and humor. Her story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to adapt and find happiness, even in the face of life-altering changes, as she takes incremental steps towards rebuilding her life and finding joy once again.

Middlemarch by George Eliot

Set in the fictitious English town of Middlemarch during the early 19th century, the novel explores the complex web of relationships in a close-knit society. It follows the lives of several characters, primarily Dorothea Brooke, a young woman of idealistic fervor, and Tertius Lydgate, an ambitious young doctor, who both grapple with societal expectations, personal desires, and moral dilemmas. Their stories intertwine with a rich tapestry of other townsfolk, reflecting themes of love, marriage, ambition, and reform, making a profound commentary on the human condition.

Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

This novel follows the life of Janie Crawford, a young African-American woman, in the early 20th century. She embarks on a journey through three marriages and self-discovery while challenging the societal norms of her time. The narrative explores her struggle for personal freedom, fulfillment, and identity against the backdrop of racism and gender expectations, ultimately emphasizing the importance of independence and personal growth.

Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War and Reconstruction era, this novel follows the life of a young Southern belle, who is known for her beauty and charm. Her life takes a turn when she is forced to make drastic changes to survive the war and its aftermath. The story revolves around her struggle to maintain her family's plantation and her complicated love life, especially her unrequited love for a married man, and her tumultuous relationship with a roguish blockade runner.

Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

This graphic novel is a memoir that provides a personal account of the author's childhood and young adult years in Iran during and after the Islamic revolution. The story portrays the impact of war, political upheaval, and religious extremism on ordinary people, while also exploring themes of identity, resilience, and the power of storytelling. Despite the harsh realities the protagonist faces, the narrative also includes moments of humor and warmth, providing a nuanced view of life in Iran during this tumultuous period.

And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie

In this classic mystery novel, ten strangers are invited to a secluded mansion on a private island by a mysterious host who is nowhere to be found. As the guests begin to die one by one, mirroring a creepy nursery rhyme that hangs in each of their rooms, they realize that the killer is among them. As suspicion and fear escalate, they must uncover the murderer before no one remains.

Brick Lane by Monica Ali

This novel tells the story of a Bangladeshi woman named Nazneen who moves to London at the age of 18 for an arranged marriage to a man 20 years her senior. The narrative explores her life in the city, her struggles with her unhappy marriage, her affair with a young radical, and her attempts to reconcile her traditional upbringing with her new surroundings. The book also explores the lives of immigrants in the UK, the clash of cultures, and the struggle for identity.

How to be both by Ali Smith

This novel is a dual narrative that explores the interconnected stories of a 15th-century Italian Renaissance artist named Francesco del Cossa and a modern-day teenager named George. The book is divided into two parts, one set in the past and one in the present, and the order in which they are read can change the reader's interpretation of the story. The novel delves into themes of art, gender, sexuality, and the fluidity of identity, while also examining the ways in which we perceive and understand the world around us.

Fingersmith by Sarah Waters

The novel is a gripping tale set in Victorian England, revolving around two young women, a petty thief and a rich heiress, whose lives intertwine in unforeseen ways. The thief is part of a con to defraud the heiress of her fortune, but as the plot thickens, the lines between deception and truth, loyalty and betrayal, love and manipulation get blurred. The narrative is filled with unexpected twists and turns, exploring themes of gender, sexuality, and class, and keeps the readers on the edge till the end.

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

This classic novel tells the story of a young scientist who creates a grotesque but sentient creature in an unorthodox scientific experiment. The scientist, horrified by his creation, abandons it, leading the creature to seek revenge. The novel explores themes of ambition, responsibility, guilt, and the potential consequences of playing God.

A Spool Of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler

The novel delves into the complex dynamics of the Whitshank family, spanning across four generations, living in Baltimore, Maryland. The narrative weaves through time, unraveling the family's secrets, rivalries, and bonds as it focuses on Abby and Red, the aging parents, and their children who grapple with their own identities and relationships. The story explores themes of legacy, memory, and the nuanced fabric of familial love, all symbolized by the titular spool of blue thread, which holds sentimental value and represents the threads of stories that connect the family members to each other and to their shared past.

Beloved by Toni Morrison

This novel tells the story of a former African-American slave woman who, after escaping to Ohio, is haunted by the ghost of her deceased daughter. The protagonist is forced to confront her repressed memories and the horrific realities of her past, including the desperate act she committed to protect her children from a life of slavery. The narrative is a poignant exploration of the physical, emotional, and psychological scars inflicted by the institution of slavery, and the struggle for identity and self-acceptance in its aftermath.

The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton

Set in the 1870s, the novel revolves around Newland Archer, a young lawyer from New York's high society, who is engaged to the beautiful and conventional May Welland. His life takes a turn when he meets May's cousin, the Countess Ellen Olenska, who has returned from Europe after leaving her scandalous husband. Torn between his duty and passion, Archer struggles with the constraints of the society he is a part of. The book offers a vivid portrayal of the struggle between individual desires and societal expectations in the upper-class New York society of the late 19th century.

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

A young, spoiled and unloved girl is sent to live with her reclusive uncle in a large, lonely house after the death of her parents. Through the discovery and cultivation of a hidden, neglected garden, she befriends a local boy and her sickly cousin, and the three children find healing and transformation through their friendship and the magic of the garden.

The Garden Party And Other Stories by Katherine Mansfield

This collection of short stories delves into the complexities of human emotions and social dynamics through the lens of early 20th-century life. The narratives, often focusing on moments of epiphany or poignant realizations, explore themes such as class distinction, innocence, and the passage of time. The titular story captures the contrast between the carefree world of the wealthy and the harsh realities of the working class, as seen through the eyes of a young girl. Throughout the anthology, the author's keen observations and vivid prose invite readers to reflect on the subtleties of everyday experiences and the intricate tapestry of human relationships.

Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

A young woman marries a wealthy widower and moves into his large English country house. She quickly realizes that the memory of her husband's first wife, Rebecca, haunts every corner of the estate. The housekeeper's obsessive devotion to Rebecca and the mysterious circumstances of her death continue to overshadow the second wife's attempts to make a happy life with her husband. As secrets about Rebecca's life and death are revealed, the new wife must grapple with her own identity and place within the household.

The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

This novel is a poignant tale of fraternal twins, a boy and a girl, who navigate through their childhood in Kerala, India, amidst a backdrop of political unrest and societal norms. The story, set in 1969, explores the complexities of their family's history and the tragic events that shape their lives. Their mother's transgression of caste and societal norms by having an affair with an untouchable leads to disastrous consequences, revealing the oppressive nature of the caste system and the destructive power of forbidden love. The novel also delves into themes of postcolonial identity, gender roles, and the lingering effects of trauma.

We Need To Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver

"We Need To Talk About Kevin" is a gripping and unsettling novel that explores the complex relationship between a mother and her troubled son. Told through a series of letters written by the mother to her estranged husband, the book delves into the aftermath of a horrific school massacre committed by Kevin. As the mother reflects on her own guilt, fears, and doubts, she questions whether her own actions and choices played a role in shaping Kevin's violent nature. This thought-provoking and chilling narrative explores themes of nature versus nurture, parental responsibility, and the profound impact of tragedy on a family.

Play It As It Lays by Joan Didion

The novel centers around a woman named Maria Wyeth, a former model and actress, who is drifting through life in the 1960s Hollywood scene. As she struggles with a failing marriage, a difficult relationship with her daughter, and a career that's spiraling downwards, she grapples with existential despair. Told in a series of fragmented narratives, the story reveals Maria's mental breakdown, her self-destructive behavior, and her desperate attempts to find meaning in a seemingly meaningless world.

Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell

The novel is a poignant social commentary set in the industrial city of Manchester during the 1840s, exploring the harsh realities of working-class life. It follows the story of the titular character, a young woman whose life is marred by personal tragedy, including the loss of her loved ones to poverty and illness. As she navigates the chasm between the poor mill workers and the wealthy mill owners, the narrative delves into themes of love, class conflict, and the struggle for justice. The protagonist becomes embroiled in a dramatic tale of murder and mistaken identity, which ultimately leads to a quest for forgiveness and reconciliation amidst the prevailing social injustices of the time.

The Summer Book by Tove Jansson

This book tells the story of an elderly artist and her six-year-old granddaughter as they spend a summer together on a tiny island in the Gulf of Finland. Their interactions, conversations, and explorations of the natural world around them form a delicate and deeply touching portrayal of the bond between generations, the beauty of the surrounding landscape, and the quiet, introspective moments that define our lives. The narrative is a series of vignettes, each a meditation on life, death, nature, and the human condition.

Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons

When a young, sophisticated woman is suddenly orphaned and left penniless, she decides to live with her eccentric relatives on their rundown farm. Using her urban sensibilities and wit, she sets about bringing order to the chaos and improving the lives of her relatives. Through her efforts, she manages to transform the gloomy, grim farm into a place of happiness and productivity. This novel is a hilarious parody of romantic, pastoral novels and is filled with eccentric characters and absurd situations.

A Visit From The Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan

"A Visit from the Goon Squad" is an interconnected collection of stories about a group of characters whose lives intersect in the music industry. The narrative spans several decades, tracing the characters' journey from their youth to middle age. It explores themes of time, change, and the impact of technology on human relationships and the music industry. The novel is known for its experimental structure, including a chapter written as a PowerPoint presentation.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Set in the early 1960s in Jackson, Mississippi, the story revolves around three main characters: two black maids and a young white woman. The maids, who have spent their lives taking care of white families and raising their children, agree to share their experiences with the young woman, who is an aspiring writer. The book offers a poignant and humorous look at the complex relationships between these women, while also exploring the racial tensions and social changes of the era.

Life After Life by Kate Atkinson

"Life After Life" follows the story of Ursula Todd who is born and dies repeatedly in February 1910. Each time Ursula dies, her life restarts, with each successive life bringing different circumstances and decisions. The novel explores themes of fate, free will, and the infinite possibilities of existence. Through Ursula's many lives, the narrative provides different perspectives on significant historical events, including both World Wars.

The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

The novel tells the story of a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to time travel unpredictably, and his wife, an artist who has to cope with his frequent absences and dangerous experiences. Their love story endures many separations and dangerous experiences due to his condition. The story's central theme is the effects of time travel on their marriage and their passionate love for each other.

Standard Deviation by Katherine Heiny

The novel is a witty and poignant exploration of a complex marriage between an endearing couple navigating the quirks of their relationship and the challenges of raising a son with Asperger's syndrome. The husband, grappling with the eccentricities of his younger second wife and the demands of his precocious son, finds himself reflecting on his past and the starkly different personality of his first wife. The narrative delves into themes of love, family dynamics, and the unpredictable nature of life, as the characters confront infidelity, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness amidst the chaos of everyday life.

An American Marriage by Tayari Jones

The book is a profound exploration of love, loyalty, and justice, centered on a young African American couple whose lives are shattered when the husband is wrongfully convicted of a crime he didn't commit. The narrative delves into the emotional turmoil that ensues, as the wife struggles with her obligations to her husband and her own desires for happiness. Through a series of letters exchanged between the couple during the husband's incarceration, and the perspectives of those entangled in their plight, the story examines the complexities of marriage, the impact of racial injustice on personal relationships, and the resilience required to overcome profound adversity.

Small Island by Andrea Levy

"Small Island" is a historical novel that explores the intertwined histories of Jamaica and the UK, as well as the themes of race, empire, and migration. The story is set in 1948 and is told from four different perspectives: two Jamaican immigrants, Hortense and Gilbert, who move to England after World War II, and an English couple, Queenie and Bernard. The narrative explores the racial tension, discrimination, and culture shock that the immigrants face in their new home, while also delving into the complexities of war, identity, and the British Empire.

The Cazalet Chronicles by Elizabeth Jane Howard

The series is a family saga that spans generations, focusing on the lives, loves, and tribulations of the Cazalet family. Set primarily between the 1930s and 1950s, the narrative delves into the personal and societal impacts of events like World War II on the extended family. Through vivid characterizations and intricate relationships, the story explores themes of time, change, and the endurance of family bonds against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving England. Each book in the series captures a different era, reflecting the shifting dynamics within the family and the country at large.

The Girl With The Louding Voice by Abi Daré

The novel follows the inspiring journey of a young Nigerian girl who yearns for an education and a better life beyond the confines of her small village and the oppressive customs that limit women's opportunities. Despite being trapped in a series of servitudes after being sold into marriage at a young age, she refuses to let her dreams be silenced. With indomitable spirit and determination, she navigates through a myriad of challenges, using her "louding voice"—her bold, resolute inner voice—to speak out for herself and others like her, in pursuit of her ambition to learn and to be heard in a world that often tries to quiet the voices of girls and women.

My Sister, The Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

In this darkly comedic novel, a nurse named Korede finds herself repeatedly cleaning up after her sister Ayoola, who has a disturbing habit of killing her boyfriends. As Ayoola's murderous tendencies escalate, Korede is torn between her loyalty to her sister and her growing concern for the next potential victim. As secrets unravel and tensions rise, the sisters' bond is put to the ultimate test, leading to a gripping and unexpected conclusion.

Who Will Run The Frog Hospital by Lorrie Moore

The novel explores the complexities of female friendship and the nostalgia for adolescence through the eyes of its protagonist, Berie Carr, who reminisces about her teenage years while on a trip to Paris with her husband. The story delves into Berie's memories of her intense friendship with Sils, her best friend during her formative years in upstate New York. Amidst the backdrop of a 1970s summer job at an amusement park, the narrative captures the poignant and often painful transition from the innocence of childhood to the disillusionment of adulthood, highlighting the formative experiences that shape us and the enduring impact of our earliest bonds.

Happenstance by Carol Shields

The novel explores the lives of a married couple by delving into their individual experiences during a five-day separation. The wife, a quilt artist, attends a craft convention in a distant city, where she confronts her own ambitions and reflects on her identity outside of her domestic life. Meanwhile, at home, the husband, a historian, takes on the responsibilities of domestic life and childcare, while also facing his own professional and personal uncertainties. The narrative alternates between their perspectives, providing a nuanced examination of marriage, gender roles, and the complexities of personal growth and self-discovery within the framework of a long-term relationship.

Restoration by Rose Tremain

"Restoration" is a historical novel set in 17th-century England during the reign of King Charles II. The story follows Robert Merivel, a young physician who rises to favor in the royal court only to fall from grace due to his own vanity and indiscretions. Merivel's journey is one of personal growth and self-discovery as he navigates the complexities of love, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness. Along the way, he encounters a rich tapestry of characters and experiences that reflect the moral and social dilemmas of the Restoration period, ultimately leading him to seek redemption and a deeper understanding of what it means to lead a meaningful life.

Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson

The novel explores the life of two sisters, Ruth and Lucille, who are raised by a series of relatives in a small, secluded town in Idaho after their mother's suicide. The girls' lives are profoundly affected by the eccentric and transient lifestyle of their aunt Sylvie, who becomes their guardian. The narrative delves deeply into themes of family, identity, womanhood, and the impermanence of life, ultimately leading to a divide between the sisters as they choose different paths in life.

We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson

This novel tells the story of the Blackwood sisters, Merricat and Constance, who live in isolation in their family mansion, following the mysterious death of their parents due to arsenic poisoning. The sisters' lives are disrupted when their estranged cousin, Charles, arrives with intentions of stealing their fortune. The story is a chilling exploration of family secrets, mental illness, and the destructive power of mob mentality.

Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto

The book is a poignant tale of love, life, and loss intertwined with the themes of food and kitchens. The narrative follows a young woman who, after the death of her grandmother, finds solace in the home of her friend and his transgender mother. As she navigates her grief, she also grapples with her growing feelings for her friend. The story explores the complexities of relationships, the concept of home, and the healing power of cooking.

The Idiot by Elif Batuman

The novel follows the experiences of Selin, a daughter of Turkish immigrants, during her freshman year at Harvard University in the mid-1990s. As she navigates the complexities of language, love, and her own identity, Selin begins an email correspondence with Ivan, a senior mathematics student. This digital romance and her quest for understanding lead her through various intellectual and emotional adventures, from teaching in Hungary to grappling with the nuances of communication and the nature of storytelling. The book is a coming-of-age tale that humorously captures the challenges of self-discovery and the transition into adulthood.

Harry Potter And The Philosopher's Stone by J. K Rowling

The story follows a young boy, Harry Potter, who learns on his 11th birthday that he is the orphaned son of two powerful wizards and possesses unique magical powers of his own. He is summoned from his life as an unwanted child to become a student at Hogwarts, an English boarding school for wizards. There, he meets several friends who become his closest allies and help him discover the truth about his parents' mysterious deaths, the dark wizard who wants to kill him, and the magical stone that holds immense power.

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

The novel centers around the transformative bond that forms between a quirky and creative young woman who becomes a caregiver for a wealthy young banker left paralyzed from an accident. Despite their contrasting backgrounds and initial reservations, they develop a deep connection that challenges their preconceived notions of love, life, and what it means to truly live. As she becomes determined to show him that life is worth living, they embark on a series of adventures together that lead to unexpected consequences, forcing them to confront what they are willing to sacrifice for love and each other.

Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell

"Hamnet" is a deeply moving and beautifully written historical novel that reimagines the life of a young boy, Hamnet, who is the son of a glovemaker in Stratford-upon-Avon. The boy tragically dies at the age of 11, which leaves a profound impact on his family, particularly his father, who is inspired to write one of the world's most famous plays. The narrative alternates between the time leading up to Hamnet's death and the aftermath, providing an intimate portrait of grief, love, and the power of art.

The Girl With The Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier

Set in 17th century Delft, the novel revolves around a young woman who becomes a maid in the household of the famous painter Johannes Vermeer. As she becomes immersed in the artist's world, she grows close to Vermeer, eventually becoming the subject of one of his most renowned paintings. The story explores themes of art, beauty, and the complex dynamics of power, class, and desire, as it follows the protagonist's journey from innocence to awakening amidst the rich tapestry of Dutch Golden Age society.

The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton

The book is a coming-of-age story focusing on a group of teenage boys living in a poor neighborhood. They are constantly at odds with the affluent kids from the other side of town, leading to violent gang fights. The story, narrated by a 14-year-old boy, explores themes such as class conflict, friendship, and the loss of innocence. It also delves into the struggles of the protagonist as he grapples with his identity, societal expectations, and the harsh realities of life.

The Price Of Salt by Patricia Highsmith

The novel centers around a young aspiring set designer working in a department store in 1950s New York who becomes infatuated with an elegant and sophisticated older woman, a customer who is trapped in a loveless, high-society marriage. As their friendship develops into a deeper bond, they embark on a road trip across the USA, a journey that defies the era's social norms and leads them to confront the complexities of their feelings and the repercussions of their unconventional relationship. The story explores themes of love, freedom, and the price one must pay for choosing to live authentically in the face of societal expectations.

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Muriel Spark

The novel is set in 1930s Edinburgh and follows the story of six girls under the tutelage of an unconventional teacher, Miss Jean Brodie. Miss Brodie, in her prime, takes it upon herself to educate the girls about life, love, politics, and art, often disregarding the traditional curriculum. The narrative explores the influence of Miss Brodie on the girls, the consequences of her nonconformist teachings, and the ultimate betrayal that leads to her downfall.

Room by Emma Donoghue

"Room" by Emma Donoghue is a novel about a young woman named Ma who has been held captive in a small room for seven years with her five-year-old son Jack. The story is told from Jack's point of view as he struggles to understand the world outside of Room and adjust to life after their escape. The novel explores themes of resilience, trauma, and the power of love and imagination.

Outline by Rachel Cusk

"Outline" is a novel that follows the story of a woman who travels to Athens to teach a writing seminar and engages in a series of conversations with various people she encounters. These include fellow authors, students, and locals, each of whom share intimate details of their lives, allowing the protagonist to reflect on her own experiences and emotions. The book explores themes of identity, storytelling, and the complexities of human relationships.

The Shipping News by Annie Proulx

The novel follows the story of a depressed and overweight man who moves with his two daughters to his ancestral home in Newfoundland, Canada, after his unfaithful wife dies in a car accident. There, he begins to rebuild his life, working as a reporter for the local newspaper, The Shipping News, and learning about the harsh realities of the fishing industry. As he delves into his family's history, he begins to find a sense of belonging and a new love. The story explores themes of family, identity, and the power of place.

The Sea, The Sea by Iris Murdoch

A successful and renowned London theatre director retires to a secluded house by the sea in an attempt to write his memoirs. His peaceful solitude is disrupted when he encounters his first love from decades ago and becomes obsessed with winning her back. As he spirals into self-delusion and madness, the narrative explores themes of love, obsession, and the subjective nature of reality.

We Were The Mulvaneys by Joyce Carol Oates

The novel is a poignant exploration of the disintegration of an American family following a traumatic event. Once a picture of idyllic success living in upstate New York, the family's world is shattered when the only daughter experiences a horrific ordeal at her high school prom. As each member grapples with the aftermath in their own way, the tight-knit bonds that once held the family together begin to unravel. The story delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the complexities of familial love, charting the Mulvaneys' journey through loss, alienation, and ultimately, a quest for redemption.

Girl With Green Eyes by Edna O'Brien

"Girl With Green Eyes" is a novel about a young, naive country girl who moves to Dublin and falls in love with a sophisticated older man who is married and a writer. The book explores themes of love, passion, innocence, and societal expectations. The protagonist's journey is marked by her struggle to reconcile her feelings for the man she loves with the moral and social implications of their relationship.

Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout

The book is a collection of 13 interconnected short stories revolving around Olive Kitteridge, a retired schoolteacher living in a small town in Maine. Olive is a complex character with a prickly exterior but a deep well of emotion and empathy beneath the surface. Through her interactions and relationships with various town residents, the book explores themes of love, loss, aging, and change, painting a rich portrait of a community and its inhabitants.

The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan

This novel explores the complex relationships between four Chinese-American mothers and their American-born daughters. The narrative switches between the perspectives of the eight women, revealing their pasts, their struggles with cultural identity, and the misunderstandings that have grown between the generations. The mothers, who all experienced hardship in their native China, want their daughters to have better lives and thus push them to excel in America. The daughters, in turn, struggle to reconcile their American surroundings with their Chinese heritage.

My Antonia by Willa Cather

This novel follows the life of Antonia Shimerda, a Bohemian immigrant to the United States, through the eyes of her childhood friend, Jim Burden. The narrative explores their lives in the harsh environment of the American Midwest, their struggles with poverty, cultural adaptation, and personal growth. Antonia's resilience, strength, and love for life inspire Jim, who moves away for education and career but remains emotionally tied to the woman and the prairie life he left behind. The book is a compelling portrayal of pioneer life, human resilience, and the enduring power of friendship.

The Regeneration Trilogy by Pat Barker

The Regeneration Trilogy is a series of three novels set during World War I, blending real-life and fictional characters to explore the psychological impact of war on soldiers. The narrative delves into the experiences of British army officers being treated for shell shock at Craiglockhart War Hospital, focusing on the innovative and sometimes controversial methods of psychiatrist Dr. W.H.R. Rivers. The story examines themes of masculinity, trauma, and the moral implications of warfare, as well as the societal pressures on soldiers to conform to heroic ideals. Through the eyes of both patients and doctors, the trilogy presents a poignant commentary on the brutal effects of war on the human psyche and the struggle for healing and regeneration.

Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys

This novel is a postcolonial prequel to "Jane Eyre," exploring the life of Mr. Rochester's mad wife, Bertha. Set in Jamaica during the 1830s, it follows the story of Antoinette Cosway, a white Creole heiress, from her youth in the Caribbean to her unhappy marriage and move to England. Caught in a society that both rejects and exoticizes her, Antoinette is ultimately driven into madness by her oppressive husband and the haunting legacy of colonialism.

The Bloody Chamber And Other Stories by Angela Carter

"The Bloody Chamber and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that reimagines and deconstructs traditional fairy tales. The narratives are filled with strong female characters, sexual exploration, and violent and gothic themes. Each story presents a unique spin on classic tales, such as Little Red Riding Hood, Beauty and the Beast, and Bluebeard, challenging the typical gender roles and expectations found in the original stories.

We are All Completely Beside Ourselves by Karen Joy Fowler

The novel follows the story of a woman named Rosemary who grew up in an unusual family, with her parents being behavioral scientists and her sister being a chimpanzee, part of an experiment her parents were conducting. As she grows older, Rosemary grapples with the loss of her sister, who was sent away when she was five, and her brother, who left the family due to the emotional turmoil caused by the experiment. The book explores themes of memory, family, and the ethical treatment of animals.

The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende

"The House of the Spirits" is a multi-generational saga that explores the lives of the Trueba family, set against the backdrop of political upheaval in an unnamed Latin American country. The narrative is driven by the family's strong and magical women, including clairvoyant Clara and her granddaughter Alba. The story spans over three generations, weaving together personal, social, and political threads, and is rich in elements of magical realism. The novel explores themes of love, violence, social class, and the struggle for power.

A Thousand Acres by Jane Smiley

This novel is a modern retelling of Shakespeare's King Lear, set on a 1000-acre farm in Iowa. The story revolves around three daughters whose father decides to divide his land among them. The eldest two daughters are compliant with their father's decision, but the youngest daughter objects, leading to familial discord. The novel delves into themes of power, jealousy, and the dark secrets that can tear a family apart.

May We Be Forgiven by A. M. Homes

"May We Be Forgiven" is a darkly comedic and deeply introspective novel that follows the life of Harry Silver, a middle-aged Nixon scholar whose life unravels after a tragic event. As Harry navigates through a series of unexpected and bizarre situations, he grapples with themes of family, identity, and redemption. With sharp wit and poignant observations, the book explores the complexities of human relationships and the possibility of finding forgiveness and second chances in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty.

A Girl Is A Half Formed Thing by Eimear McBride

"A Girl Is A Half Formed Thing" is a powerful and experimental novel that delves into the psyche of a young woman as she navigates through a tumultuous and abusive childhood, her complex relationship with her mentally and physically disabled brother, and her own journey towards self-discovery and identity. Written in a unique stream-of-consciousness style, the book explores themes of trauma, sexuality, religion, and resilience, offering a raw and unflinching portrayal of the human experience.

The Golden Notebook by Doris May Lessing

The novel centers around a woman named Anna Wulf, a writer who keeps four notebooks, each representing a different aspect of her life: her experiences in Africa, her current life in London, a novel she is writing, and her personal experiences. As Anna's mental state deteriorates, she attempts to unify her fragmented self in a fifth notebook, the golden notebook. The novel explores themes of mental breakdown, communism, the changing role of women, and the fear of nuclear war.

A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin

This fantasy novel follows the story of a young boy named Ged who lives in a world of islands called Earthsea. Ged discovers he has a natural talent for magic and is sent to a school for wizards on the island of Roke. As he grows and learns, his arrogance leads him to unleash a shadow creature that he must then spend years trying to defeat. The book explores themes of balance, power, and the danger of hubris, as Ged learns to control his abilities and accept responsibility for his actions.

The Children's Book by A. S. Byatt

"The Children's Book" is a historical novel that explores the lives of several families, primarily the Wellwoods, from the end of the Victorian era through World War I. The story delves into the complex relationships between parents and children, the influence of storytelling, and the impact of political and social changes on personal lives. It also portrays the struggles of women's suffrage, socialism, and the arts and crafts movement. The narrative is intricately woven with fairy tales and myths, reflecting the characters' inner lives and the era's cultural milieu.

Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke

Set in a parallel 19th-century England, this novel tells the story of two practicing magicians, Mr. Norrell and Jonathan Strange. Norrell, who aims to restore magic to respectability in England, is initially thrilled by Strange's natural aptitude for magic, and the two form a student-teacher relationship. However, their partnership soon deteriorates into rivalry as Strange, driven by the loss of his wife to the fairy realm, seeks to reintroduce the old, wilder forms of magic that Norrell disdains. Their conflict escalates, culminating in a magical duel that has profound consequences for the future of magic in England.

Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver

"Flight Behavior" is a thought-provoking novel that explores the effects of climate change on a small town in Appalachia. The story centers around a young woman who stumbles upon a forest filled with a massive population of monarch butterflies, which have migrated there due to changing weather patterns. This unusual event brings a flurry of scientists, reporters, and religious leaders to the town, causing upheaval in the community and forcing the protagonist to reevaluate her understanding of the world.

Good Housekeeping , 100 Books

Good Housekeeping team created a list of the 100 best books by women authors. Their website description is:

From gripping works of fiction to literary classics, this list of 100 books to read by women was selected by the Good Housekeeping team and shows that women's writing is complex, brilliant, moving, innovative – everything the best writing should be.

This list has a weight of 44% . To learn more about what this means please visit the Rankings page .

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‘Jo Was Everything I Wanted to Be’: 5 Writers on ‘Little Women’

Julia Alvarez, Virginia Kantra, Anna Quindlen, Sonia Sanchez and Jennifer Weiner talk about how the book, now a hit movie, inspired them.

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By Concepción de León

While the latest film adaptation of “ Little Women ,” which opened on Christmas Day , has been getting all the attention lately, Louisa May Alcott’s 19th-century classic has influenced women writers for generations. Five of them told us what the novel means to them. These are edited excerpts from their responses.

Julia Alvarez

“Little Women” was our favorite book in English. My sisters and I discovered it soon after arriving in this country. It was the only book we had ever read about an all-girl family of four sisters, just like ours. I don’t know how many times we read and reread that book. We couldn’t get enough of these strong, lively, resilient March girls. Wow, what an accurate portrayal of sisterhood and all its complexities. What a critical story for us at this juncture in our lives, when we, too, were facing so many changes, losses, challenges to the certainties we had known. Check, check, check.

The March girls were white New Englanders, and we were newly arrived immigrants from a dictatorship in the Dominican Republic, but there the differences stopped and the uncanny similarities began — down to our very names. The first letter of each sister’s name was the same as each of ours, in the same birth order: Margaret-Meg/Maury; Jo/Julia; Elizabeth-Beth/Estela; Amy/Ana. Our personalities and passions matched our twin character. (I, Julia/Jo, wanted to be a writer.)

Long before “multicultural literature,” before we would find our faces or traditions or histories in American literature, we found our reflection here. The novel beamed me a powerful message that stories were about what we shared with other people, families, sisters — even a story that wasn’t overtly about us. Conversely, it meant that someday, if Jo/Julia wrote about the Mirabal sisters or the García girls, readers from other backgrounds might find themselves in my stories, too. Louisa May Alcott was one of my first muses. (A for Alvarez, check again!)

Julia Alvarez is the author of “How the García Girls Lost Their Accents” and “In the Time of the Butterflies.” Her forthcoming book is “Afterlife.”

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Caroline tew, more online by caroline tew.

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FUNNY GIRLS: New Books by Women with a Sense of Humor

By caroline tew.

It’s hard to talk about funny female authors without mentioning Melissa Broder. Her latest novel, Milk Fed (Scribner) has a giant pink nipple on its cover, after all. The novel follows a lapsed Jew, Rachel, who finds herself obsessed with an overweight Orthodox yogurt-shop employee named Miriam. Miriam’s constant desire to mother and feed Rachel is made more complex by Rachel’s fraught relationship with her own mother and her struggles with an eating disorder.

“Life was a lot less bleak when you were staring straight down the barrel of a burrito,” Rachel admits, and even those who don’t struggle with disordered eating can relate. While the scathing but hilarious insights on adulthood, dieting, religion, and family drama sustain the first half of the novel, Milk Fed soon veers off the rails. Sex dominates the second half—smells, visceral descriptions, and outlandish fantasies—as Miriam becomes not just Rachel’s friend and stand-in mother, but also her lover. There is a brief argument about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that doesn’t feel fully fleshed out, then the sex resumes. The pithy remarks of the first half have gone, leaving the book feeling like an off-kilter porno.

Custom House

Kathy Wang’s second novel, Imposter Syndrome (Custom House), embraces satire fully and to the end. Julia, a female tech giant and undercover Russian spy, is uncovered by a lowly employee, Alice; but really the novel’s entire purpose is to satirize the male-dominated realms of both the spy genre and the tech industry. Julia’s cover as the “Sweetheart of Silicon Valley” who bakes cookies and aspires to motherhood works because, in the world of tech, journalists are always on the lookout for “a female executive to quote—please, any woman!”

Wang’s critique of the spy genre—Julia’s male handler doesn’t understand the hoops she must jump through to keep up appearances as a kindly yet no-nonsense female exec—is spot-on. Unfortunately, she is overcommitted to the bit. While the novel promises excitement, the denouement—an attempt to undermine a Russian cyberattack—is carried out by a bumbling cast of characters. Readers promised “John le Carré filtered through Tom Wolfe” will surely be disappointed.

Atria Books

It’s clear that scathing but pithy interrogations of women in the workplace are a trend this summer, but no one does this quite so well as Zakiya Dalila Harris in her debut novel, The Other Black Girl (Atria). Although at its core, the book is a serious examination of the difficulties of being a Black woman at a publishing company, there’s plenty to laugh about. “Just the mention of Williamsburg [ … ] caused Maisy to recoil as though someone had just asked to see the inside of her vagina,” Nella notes about one of her white colleagues. This is a novel that is not afraid to put social issues front and center, while being peppered with lines that take some of the edge off.

The Other Black Girl seems like Kiley Reid’s Such a Fun Age , only set in the publishing world, and in many ways it is. However, before too long elements of a thriller—á la Get Out —begin to creep in, and the finale, while intriguing, feels far from where the novel began. In many ways, I appreciate Harris’s bold choice to write about the industry, but the ending is not what the beginning promised. No matter how funny a book is, there is only so far a reader can suspend their disbelief.

It would be remiss to discuss workplace novels without mentioning Christine Smallwood’s The Life of the Mind (Hogarth), a debut novel about a young professor stuck in “adjunct hell” who has recently had a miscarriage. The story lacks much of a plot, but luckily the writing has a funny yet acerbic character that propels the narrative. For example, the novel begins: “Dorothy was taking a shit at the library when her therapist called and she let it go to voicemail.” Although it could be dismissed as just another book about millennial ennui, The Life of the Mind is actually funny rather than simply pretending to be.

Fair warning: there is plenty of talk here about uteruses, fetuses, and, above all, blood, and squeamish readers will likely find this novel unreadable. Smallwood’s description of Dorothy’s condition post-miscarriage is clinically droll: “Was her body a slot machine randomly ejecting globs of blood?” she asks in the bathroom before a trip to Las Vegas. Smallwood is onto something with this debut, and fans of Sally Rooney should consider adding this to their TBR list.

Sometimes the best jokes are the subtle kind: Kristen Arnett’s second novel, With Teeth (Riverhead), is not a romp, but it’s not supposed to be. Sammie is dealing with a troubled marriage and a misbehaving son, Samson, both of which “ruin the image” her partner Monika wants to promote, “a happy, well-adjusted little family of three, gay, but otherwise just like anyone else.” But, spoiler alert: it’s not going well.

Sammie’s misadventures are funny and sad; her life is a mess, but Arnett writes with such humor that it’s nearly impossible not to laugh when Samson defiantly rains dirt down on his mother’s head or spits in the mean girl’s French fries. But the best part of the book isn’t this balance between pathos and humor; rather, it’s the short vignettes between the chapters. These, told from the point of view of an array of minor characters, reframe the events of the book in disturbing ways. Still, Arnett somehow manages to make even the bleakest of stories an enjoyable read.

Simon & Schuster

Mona Awad’s second novel, All’s Well (Simon & Schuster), is anything but subtle. Much like her debut, Bunny , this book seems set on taking an intriguing concept and twisting it until it’s virtually unintelligible. Miranda, a theater professor, is battling chronic pain and a devastating divorce, while her untalented students rebel against the prospect of performing All’s Well That Ends Well because they want to do Macbeth. Soon three men appear, like the witches in Macbeth , and grant Miranda a kind of wish. After a heated standoff about which play to perform, Miranda snatches a script from her least-favorite student, Briana, and in doing so, somehow transfers her pain, thus freeing herself and ruining Briana’s chances at the lead.

If the plot sounds convoluted, that’s because it is. Luckily, the first half of the novel is punctuated with humor. “Reading an essay of Briana’s will make you fear for the future of America, will make you hiss, What the fuck are you talking about? aloud at the bar.” But the pithy one-liners devolve into constant call backs to the title—Miranda cannot stop telling everyone that “All’s well!”—and the ending is so bizarrely nonsensical that by the time the curtain closes, the story has lost all sense of meaning.

Published on October 21, 2021

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Why American Girl has been a perfect fit for this creative writing professor  

Northeastern’s Kathryn Reiss has authored several mysteries for the iconic book and toy company alongside her award-winning, original middle grade fiction.

In “The Silver Guitar: A Julie Mystery,” by Kathryn Reiss, Julie Albright, a 10-year-old girl living in 1970s San Francisco, gets involved in a glitzy auction to raise money for an oil spill disaster cleanup off the California coast. The most prized item on offer — a silver guitar that once belonged to a Jimi Hendrix doppelgänger — becomes central to a slowly-unfolding whodunnit involving San Francisco’s hippie elite, a class project, and a conspiracy to steal scores of precious artifacts and replace them with fakes, including a Van Gogh sketch and Abraham Lincoln’s top hat.

By the end, Julie and her friends solve the mystery, learning a valuable, overarching lesson about the danger of snap judgments along the way:

“Why would you suspect me?” a character asks Julie in a passage near the book’s resolution. “ Because we jumped to conclusions, Julie thought. She had suspected nearly everyone based on what she thought was evidence. Just as the oil spill wasn’t really the ship captain’s fault. Mom had helped her see that the blame for the oil spill in the bay was not clear cut. Now Julie realized that the theft of the silver guitar was also more complex.”

Published in 2011, “The Silver Guitar,” is an entry in the American Girl imprint’s “Mysteries” series. Julie, as AG devotees know, is a doll with long, center-parted blond hair and a peace sign T-shirt from the iconic toy brand, which sells dozens of doll characters with fully fleshed out canons often set against the backdrop of key periods in U.S. history. There are clothes, furniture and accessories to go with them — not to mention dozens of books and short stories.  

Reiss, a creative writing professor on Northeastern University’s campus in Oakland, California, has authored several mystery novels for American Girl alongside her award-winning, wholly original middle grade fiction. In addition to three other Julie mysteries, she has written for the 1900s-era Rebecca and Depression-era Kit characters.

“Kathryn’s American Girl books are among the ones I’ve enjoyed reading [the most],” says Kristin McGlothlin, a fan and fellow middle-grade author who especially loves Reiss’ “A Kit Mystery: Intruders at Rivermead Manor. ” 

“The historical context is written into the story seamlessly,” she says. “I’ve found reading some of the American Girl series that the era’s trends can stick out to the reader.”

Julie was an ideal muse for Reiss, and not just because they both call the Bay Area home. American Girl books writ large bring together elements the author is drawn to in all her work: the historical past, memory, enterprising female protagonists, mystery with a light element of peril, trenchant life lessons. Her work for the company, which has stretched from the early 2000s to her most recent “Julie” book in 2018, has been a welcome complement to the rest of her career.  

That includes her role as an educator: Many of Reiss’ creative writing students have become successful novelists in their own rights, including Nina LaCour, Aiden Thomas and Carly Anne West.

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“I think about her a lot in terms of having this really outsized influence on multiple generations of middle grade writers,” says Stephanie Young, a poet and literary scholar who has been on the faculty with Reiss since 2005.

LaCour, a 2006 MFA graduate, wrote her debut novel with Reiss an adviser. “I respect Kathryn’s career so much,” she says. “She was my first example of a real working writer —someone with such talent and skill and tenacity.”

She describes her professor as an enthusiastic scholar of the Young Adult genre, always discovering new works. “She stayed very current with her book selections. She had some core novels that she taught over and over but would always weave in newer releases, too. She taught YA as an ever-evolving category of literature, which was so beneficial.”

‘Creepy ghostie’ novels

Reiss realized she had a knack for stories centering kids and teens in the middle of her first manuscript. After finishing up her undergraduate degree at Duke in 1980, she was on a Fulbright fellowship in Germany when she began sketching out an idea for a novel. “I thought, well, it’s going to be a mystery, it’s going to be about time, there’s going to be a big old house, there’s going to be the possibility of a ghost,” she remembers.

Originally she told the story — about a girl who becomes entranced by a dollhouse in her attic — from the perspective of the girl’s concerned parents.

“I was writing it from the mother’s point of view, that she’s watching her daughter grow obsessed with this dollhouse,” Reiss says. “I had handwritten 40 pages of that before I realized: No, the really good story is not the mother worrying about her daughter’s sanity, but the daughter who has really stumbled upon magic. When she looks into the dollhouse, she can see into the past of what happened in their own house.”

I respect Kathryn’s career so much. She was my first example of a real working writer —someone with such talent and skill and tenacity. Nina LaCour, a bestselling YA novelist and Kathryn Reiss’ former student

The eventual novel, “Time Windows,” came out in 1991 and was a commercial and critical hit. Still in print, Reiss’ debut was an American Library Association Best Book for young adults; Kirkus Reviews called it “well-wrought and entertaining.” 

“Dollhouses plus time travel? I was sold,” remembers Jessie Schiewe, a fan who discovered “Time Windows” in a California thrift store in the early 2000s and became a devoted reader. “I don’t read thrillers or suspense novels normally. I have never enjoyed a murder mystery. But Reiss’ suspense is a different kind of suspense. It’s rooted a bit more in fantasy and touches on many of the spooky things I dwelt on as a kid.” 

A sequel, “Pale Phoenix,” shortly followed “Time Windows,” and Reiss has published 18 more novels marketed under the “middle grade” or “young adult” designations since. Often, her work takes the form of suspense thrillers involving history or time travel; she affectionately calls them “creepy ghostie” novels.  “I’m sort of writing for myself as a kid,” Reiss says. “The books I would want to be reading.”

A few years before “Time Windows,” in 1986, Pleasant Company (the brand that would become American Girl) had launched its initial line of dolls and books depicting pre-teen girls living in U.S. historical periods from the Colonial era to World War II.

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A mother of seven, Reiss first came across the first American Girl books when her children were little. “I remember reading them [with my kids] and thinking, ‘I would have loved these books,’” she says.

Reiss teaches on the history of middle grade and young adult novels dating back to the 19th century, and she points out that American Girl came along just as the market for kids’ historical fiction was booming. “There were some books in earlier decades, but there weren’t whole series of them until the ’80s. American Girl was one of the first. They really had a huge impact and got people thinking about how to present history for children and be accurate, but also not overwhelming.”

Playing with dolls

By the ’90s, American Girl had become a household name and grown to include a full-blown publishing imprint with several spinoff novel series. Reiss’s first book for American Girl was “Riddle of the Prairie Bride” (2001) an entry in the now-discontinued “History Mysteries” series of original stories elucidating true historical scenarios. The plot focused on a young girl whose father married a mail-order bride on the Kansas prairie in the 1870s, a common practice at the time. Reiss followed it up in 2003 with a mystery set during the 1906 San Francisco earthquake , then didn’t hear from American Girl for nearly a decade.

The Julie doll came out in 2007. After she got over her initial confusion about the ’70s being considered history —  “I thought ‘Oh no, I guess I’m getting historic too,’ she laughs — Reiss took on an assignment to write books for a new mystery series linked to the company’s ever-growing roster of historic doll characters. She eventually wrote four for Julie and six in all between 2009 and 2017.

Writing for beloved, existing characters, all with several books of what the industry terms “core fiction” constituting their backstories, was a different type of creative challenge for Reiss. “I imagine it’s a bit like writing episodes of a TV series,” she explains. “You can’t have anything upset the established timeline.”

For instance, Julie’s parents are divorced. “I can’t get them back together again,” Reiss says. “All of the mysteries are completely my own invention, and I can bring in new characters, but they can’t change the basic life [Julie and the other core characters] are living.”

I imagine it’s a bit like writing episodes of a TV series. You can’t have anything upset the established timeline. Northeastern University Oakland professor Kathryn Reiss on writing books for American Girl

A fun perk of writing for American Girl: a doll was included with every book contract. Between those and the dolls her four daughters had growing up, Reiss has amassed quite a collection. “I even have Julie’s best friend, Ivy,” she says. “Now we have grandchildren, and my husband and I were just saying, ‘Oh, maybe we should get them out of the closet.’”

Writing, living history

American Girl has been a fun detour for Reiss, but it also dovetails nicely with themes that preoccupy her in her primary writing and teaching career. She thinks a lot about the ways literature can help us make sense of a shared, historic past.

“The morning after 9/11, in 2001, I was teaching a creative writing class, and the towers were still burning in New York,” she remembers. “I was saying to my students, ‘the horror of what’s going on right now … eventually there will be books written about this, even though we can’t imagine how this is going to translate into fiction.’”

Especially in children’s literature of previous decades, there was a long processing time between historical events happening and them being distilled into fictional narratives; young adult books about the Holocaust, for example, didn’t really rise to the fore for about 40 years. Lately, though, Reiss has noticed fiction grappling with an increasingly recent past.

“After the 2016 election, there were new books coming out by YA authors about refugees and immigrants fleeing desperate situations that were much more contemporary,” she says. “Now I think there’s more of a push to write about events that are still pretty current, rather than waiting a decade or so to process it.”

That recency creep is present in American Girl products as well. When Pleasant Company’s first three dolls came out in 1986, the most “recent” character, Molly, lived in the 1940s. Last year, the company introduced a “historical” pair of twins, Nicki and Isabel, anxiously anticipating Y2K. Reiss herself is finishing up revisions on a young adult manuscript set during the lockdown days of the COVID-19 pandemic; the plot involves the U.S. foster care system, an old house, and, true to form, a time portal. “I’ve had a great time writing it,” she says.

“Her writing has never been static,” says Young, Reiss’ Northeastern colleague. “She’s an example of what a writer can be over a long career, and that’s so amazing for younger writers to see. You can have this kind of reach. You can have this kind of variety.”

Schuyler Velasco is a Northeastern Global News Magazine senior writer. Email her at [email protected] . Follow her on X/Twitter @Schuyler_V .

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The fifth-year Northeastern heptathlete has dealt with ADHD and anxiety while competing at the highest level.

11 Young Female Authors You Should Read This Summer

By Kara K. Nesvig

Does your summer reading list need a breath of fresh air? After all, this is the best time of the year for fun reading — you know, reading books that weren't assigned to you by a teacher! There's nothing like sitting outside, laying on the beach, or swinging in a hammock with a book you just can't put down. Even better when the writing is so good it keeps your attention for hours!

Why not discover some young female authors in your search for your next favorite book? We did the heavy lifting and scoured the shelves for you. Take a look at our 11 picks, ahead.

Warsan Shire

Did you love the spoken word segments of Beyoncé’s *Lemonade? * They were snippets from poet Warsan Shire, a young Somali woman who lives in London. Her poem “For Women Who are ‘Difficult’ to Love” went viral on Tumblr, and her poetry book *Teaching My Mother How to Give Birth * sold out on Amazon immediately after *Lemonade * debuted. We’re anxiously awaiting her next book.

Esmé Weijun Wang

Esmé’s first book, The Border of Paradise , was just released this spring, though she’s written for countless publications including Lena Dunham’s Lenny Letter. One of the things we love about Esmé is her “Encouragement Notes” emails, which were inspired by her struggle with schizoaffective disorder and Lyme disease. Instead of letting these things hold her back, she’s created a supportive community to uplift and empower others.

Tahereh Mafi

Tahereh Mafi is a seriously prolific writer; she’s written seven YA books in just five years, and the movie rights to her debut *Shatter Me * were snapped up by 20th Century Fox.

Nikita Gill

Nikita Gill is another young poet who found success on Tumblr. Nikita also uses Instagram to spread her poetry via social media; you’ve probably seen her work reposted on your feed. Her poems are short and to the point, dealing with loss, love and heartbreak. Her first book, Your Soul is a River , was just released .

Emma Cline’s debut novel, *The Girls, * was basically the most highly anticipated book of 2016. It’s based on the infamous Manson girls, but its heroine, Evie, isn’t exactly in the center of the California cult. She’s an outsider, and what she sees and learns during that summer stays with her all her life. Emma’s just 27, so we’re pumped to see what’s next for her.

Helen Oyeyemi

Helen Oyeyemi’s work is full of magic, but you don’t have to take our word for it. She’s been a finalist for all sorts of awards, including the Shirley Jackson Award and the Los Angeles Times Book Prize. Pick up her book of short stories *What Is Not Yours is Not Yours * for the perfect introduction to her voice and talent.

Eleanor Catton

Eleanor Catton won the Man Booker Prize when she was just 28, making her the youngest recipient of that esteemed award ever . Oh, and her book that won was a whopping 832 pages. Yeah, no big deal. Take it along on your cabin vacation and dive in.

Mallory Ortberg

You probably know Mallory Ortberg’s name from her website, The Toast . You’ve cracked up at her “Women in Art History” series and her “Texts from” series, which became a book in 2014. We were devastated by the news that The Toast is closing, but we’ll still get to read Mallory’s words as Dear Prudence over at Slate, and we wouldn’t be surprised if we get another Mallory book soon. (Please, Mallory?!?)

Stephanie Danler

Did you spend your summers working in a restaurant? If so, you’ll love Stephanie Danler’s debut novel Sweetbitter . She actually pitched it to an editor when she was working as a server in a famous New York restaurant, and the rest is history. *Sweetbitter * is lushly written, a sensual experience about food, finding yourself, the disappointments of adulthood and, of course, love.

Yelena Akhtiorskaya

Her debut novel, Panic in a Suitcase , was released before she turned 30 and tells the story of an immigrant family who moved to Brooklyn from the Ukraine, much like Yelena’s own. Her book strikes a chord with readers whose own families had to acclimate to America while still keeping the traditions of their country alive.

J. Courtney Sullivan

J. Courtney Sullivan writes the kind of epic, generation-spanning novels that you’ll devour on the beach and then pass on to your best friend *and * your mom — they’re that universal. You should definitely pick up *Commencement * if you’re about to start college, or have just said goodbye to your undergrad years.

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Literary names for girls are derived from female characters in books from all genres and periods. Girl names from children's books are particularly popular today, including Alice (in Wonderland) and Eloise (at the Plaza). Literary girl names from classic books such as Scarlett and Scout are fashionable.

Along with Eloise and Scarlett, other literary girl names in the US Top 300 include Daisy, Harper, Juliet, Maisie, Harriet, Bella, Arya, and Evangeline. Distinctive female character names with strong ties to their characters include Cosette, Snow Flower, Hermione, and Lolita.

Literary names for girls from books that have become television shows or movies such as Game of Thrones names or Hunger Games names have also found widespread use, with names such as Aria and Katniss used for non-fictional baby girls.

In the literary baby names category, as always, feel free to think about your own personal favorites. The female literary names here are ordered by their current popularity on Nameberry.

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Just as the health space keeps evolving, so do we. Thus the name change from WriterGirl to WG Content. And while she’ll always be our “Girl,” the new name better represents us as we continue to grow and deliver genius strategy and fresh creative to clients who are all about growing, too.

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The first American Girl comic book, Julie and the Blue Guitar, is a worthy installment in the franchise

But it raises questions about the diversity of the dolls themselves

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Share All sharing options for: The first American Girl comic book, Julie and the Blue Guitar, is a worthy installment in the franchise

My memories of American Girl literature are strong. The chapter books painted backstories for my favorite dolls, giving me a taste for historical fiction and nonfiction that I still have today, and books like Hair: Styling Tips and Tricks for Girls and The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Girls offered a gender-affirming look at girlhood in an otherwise fraught moment for representations of women in media: the mid-2000s.

So, when IDW Publishing and Mattel announced they were partnering for a set of American Girl graphic novels for the kids of the 2020s, I got really excited. Polygon got the chance to read the first, Julie and the Blue Guitar , written by Casey Gilly and drawn by Felia Hanakata, before it was released to readers this week. Blue Guitar continues the American Girl tradition of telling fascinating historic stories through a hopeful lens, but it also brings forth a failure inherent in the dolls themselves: their singularity.

Gilly and Hanakata are not new to transforming iconic franchises into comic books — between them, they’ve worked on well-received tales in the canon of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The Dragon Prince , My Little Pony, and Dungeons & Dragons, to name a few — so it’s no surprise that Julie and the Blue Guitar is compelling and inventive.

The creators build on the history of Julie Albright, a ’70s-era doll introduced in 2007, bringing her story into the 21st century via her diary, which is discovered by the book’s present-day lead, Emma Dhillon, while moving into her new home in San Francisco. This kicks off two parallel tales — one in which Emma makes a documentary about her journey to figure out who Julie is, and Julie and her friends try to solve the mystery of a stolen blue guitar in 1977.

To keep the stories straight, Hanakata borders Emma’s sequences in blue and Julie’s in yellow, but I’ll admit I was confused by the premise at first. A panel of Emma and Julie shouting simultaneously while facing each other had me thinking we were time traveling for a moment — but once I settled into the parallel narratives (and the color coding), I didn’t put the book down until I finished it.

It wasn’t just the American Girl nostalgia that kept me turning the page. In fact, it’s almost the opposite. Hanakata’s thick-lined, brightly pigmented representation of Julie is refreshingly modern compared to the photorealistic imagery of her on the American Girl website . The pages designed to look like the inside of Julie’s journal make me excited for kids who get to create imaginary worlds for their Julie dolls based on what they learn about her in this book.

Julie’s story also centers on her motivation to raise money to benefit the San Francisco Bay oil spill cleanup, which is based on the real-life spill that happened in 1971. In true American Girl form, the last few pages of the book contain information about several real-life historical events that inspired elements of the story.

It’s not only accurate in the historic sense. Gilly and Hanakata aren’t shy about incorporating modern technology and vernacular, which feels like a great way to keep young readers interested. Emma films her documentary on her smartphone, illustrated to look like the UI of a real phone, down to the puppy filter that pops up on Emma’s face in a few scenes. Gilly strikes a nice balance of modernity, sending Emma’s character to the library to look through local yearbooks that don’t exist in digital form, just like Julie’s diary.

However, this book throws one of my biggest reservations about American Girl as a now-adult feminist into stark relief. Hanakata’s Emma is short with dark hair that fades to pink at the ends, framing her round face and complementing her relatively chubby build. Julie is consistent with other American Girl artwork of the doll: She’s thin and willowy, with long, blonde hair.

But though you can buy a Julie doll, you can’t buy an Emma doll. I tried to create a custom Emma doll on the American Girl website, but I couldn’t find a hairstyle or color to match, nor could I customize her shorter height and thicker body shape. No matter what, every American Girl doll is predestined to be 18 inches tall with a soft, flat belly and legs that don’t touch.

It isn’t that the dolls are particularly harmful in their representation — compared to the wide world of big-brand dolls, they’re not overly skinny, and you can select from a range of skin colors and hair types. But their homogeneity in body type means that, in media like this comic, the dolls are all represented similarly, too.

In short: There hasn’t been a fat American Girl doll yet, and it’s past due. For one reason or another, Gilly and Hanakata chose to represent Julie and the Blue Guitar ’s main character as having a body dissimilar from Julie’s, and that begs the question: If American Girl’s new graphic novel line can build compelling stories with body diversity, when will American Girl reflect that in its main business?

The book cashes in on body diversity in a good way — I’m glad young readers will see a smart, intriguing character that might look more like them in American Girl media — but Mattel fails to back it with dolls that purport that value, too. It’s a shame that kids would have to get creative with their dolls to create narratives that match the body diversity in Julie and the Blue Guitar , because the choice to make Emma different makes for a better graphic novel. Why can’t those varying shapes and sizes exist for the dolls, too?

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A Greyhound of a Girl: Terrific Irish ensemble enlivens charming tale that makes weighty themes feel feather-light

Animation of roddy doyle’s children’s book of same name leans into writer’s reliable ear for the vernacular.

A Greyhound of a Girl

Seven countries, including Ireland, were involved in this charming international coproduction, overseen by the Italian director Enzo D’Alò and featuring the work of the Dublin -based JAM Media .

The source material, Roddy Doyle ’s children’s book of the same name from 2011, is unquestionably local. A late drone-style shot places the action in or around Kilbarrack, the author’s locale. There are pretty background glimpses of Bachelors Walk and North Circular Road; overhead images of green fields and an enchanted woodland make for verdant, John Hinde-friendly images.

Mary O’Hara (Mia O’Connor) is the sparky 11-year-old heroine of a tale that brings together four generations of Irish women for a road trip. Mary is the only girl in a house of Bohs -supporting males, including two brothers and her dad ( Brendan Gleeson ). She frequently clashes with her harried mother, Scarlett (voiced by Sharon Horgan and named for Gone with the Wind), but adores her rebellious granny, Emer ( Rosaleen Linehan ).

Mary’s summer holiday seems doomed when she fails to impress the judges at Ballymaloe Cookery School and her best friend moves to England. Worse still, she learns that her beloved grandmother is dying. The frustrated budding chef finds solace in a strange new supernatural friend, Tansey (Charlene McKenna). Why does Tansey sound young and dress like an old woman? Why has she never seen a kettle before? The answer is as unexpected as Granny’s final daring escapade.

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Working from a script written with the Bafta -winning Dave Ingham (Charlie and Lola), D’Alò leans into Doyle’s reliable ear for the vernacular. Hand-drawn monochrome dream sequences form an intriguing subplot around the sighthound of the title. Despite some unwelcome and unnecessary musical montages, this is a pleasing animated feature that makes weighty themes of death and memory feel fun and feather-light. A terrific Irish ensemble enlivens a tale that takes in colcannon and cynophobia.

A Greyhound of a Girl is in cinemas from Friday, June 28th

[  Kinds of Kindness review: A pounding headache might be the only reward for your patience  ]

Tara Brady, a contributor to The Irish Times, is a writer and film critic

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