So we’ve all seen Obama’s summer reading list being shared around, but we thought we could throw our names in the hat and create our own WO reading list, full of incredible women writers. Our colleagues are sharing their favorite books by women writers.
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
Includes topics such as finding your own voice and spiritual growth which exposed me to intersectionality that lit a fire in my belly. It had me laughing, and crying, and I just find it such a wholesome, although difficult at times, read.
Ivy – Customer Service Ambassador
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon.
I love it because it’s a feminist retelling of George and the Dragon, with a queendom, magic, and sapphic themes – which makes it a refreshing change from the usual medieval high fantasy novels!
Samantha – Engagement Client Relationship Administrator
The Twisted Tale Collection by Liz Braswell
I love Liz Braswell she did a series of books called The Twisted Tales and it told alternative stories from classic Disney films sharing the villain’s side of the story. They open your eyes to realise you don’t know what someone has gone through or what goes on behind the scenes as to why they behave the way they do.
Sophia – Head Of Business Advice Plus
Women Don’t Owe You Pretty by Florence Given
One of the first books that made me feel truly empowered and inspired by her brutal honesty and unapologetic attitude toward being her completely imperfect self.
Olivia – Engagement and Client Relationship Officer
A Toolkit for Modern Life & A Toolkit For Happiness by Dr. Emma Hepburn
While it is not a novel both her books A Toolkit For Modern Life and A Toolkit For Happiness are great little pocket-size books that you can just pick up when you need them, and you will always find something that is helpful.
Germaine – Engagement and Client Relationship Co-Ordinator
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
It has a good story and it provides an insight into humanity the good and bad.
Maggie – CEO
Circe by Madeline Miller
It is an adaptation of various Greek myths with a different spin on them as told from the POV of a woman. I love it because it explores so many themes about being a woman and the character development really makes you feel like you can do anything.
Anna – Marketing Coordinator
The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
A beautiful and controversial love story.
Sandra – Head Of Facilities
Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
The inspiring story of a strong woman – Scarlett O’Hara – whose spoilt character changes as she struggles through poverty.
Sandra – Head Of Facilities
Any book by Louisa May Alcott
Because I can read her books over and over and find something I missed last time each time.
Lucy – Finance and Monitoring Administrator
Fences and Windows by Naomi Klein
I was a student when I read ‘No Logo’ by Naomi Klein as I was interested in marketing, culture, ethics, and the influence that ‘big brands’ have on society and politics. This book was written 30 months later and is a collection of shorter news articles and speech transcripts focusing on the anti-globalization movement. Although it was written over 20 years ago it is interesting to reflect on what has changed, while also sadly how many of the issues are still relevant today.
Nikki – Lead for Marketing, Communications & PR
Slay In Your Lane By Yomi Adegoke & Elizabeth Uviebinené
I wish I read this book earlier on in life, it was an eye-opener, it was like a gathering of sisters giving you stories and practical advice on how to navigate in work, personal life, and how to succeed in this world as a black woman, there is no experience like it!
Cynthia – Senior Media & Marketing Executive
Maya Angelou – All her autobiographies
I loved every single book as part of her biography, there were so many shocking moments that I couldn’t believe what she had gone through. Yet her strength and wisdom are so inspiring, it had me believing if she could overcome everything she did and still be successful, anything is possible and nothing can stop you!
Cynthia – Senior Media & Marketing Executive
Happy Reading!