Wild by Cheryl Strayed
This memoir documents Strayed's Pacific Crest Trail backpacking journey up the West Coast, from the bottom of California to the top of Oregon. The hike is taken as a form of both escape and self-discovery, the result of many tragic life events and missteps in the years before her solo excursion. Each downward spiral along with the hike itself, is documented openly and honestly, in a way that is engaging, touching, and entertaining. I found this book inspiring, proof that at the lowest points in life there can always be revivals. I ended this journey alongside Strayed with the feeling that if she could walk a thousand miles on her own then I could do anything. I also think it's a good example of a woman saving herself and taking control of her life in this most dramatic and epic way possible.
READ IF: You have a bit of restless energy and wanderlust or if you love the outdoors and would like some inspiration to get out and hike this summer.
Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
Lean In is part autobiography, part career advice book written by Facebook's Chief Operating Officer. It includes many stories based on the challenges she and her colleagues have
faced due to their gender, and offers both guidance and tough lessons learned based on these experiences. I loved this book because Sandberg stands as proof that women can be just as successful as men in their chosen field. A book written directly from the perspective of a "girl boss" may be harder to come by than expected, considering the vast majority of leadership positions are still held by men. The act of "leaning in" has inspired a movement that encourages women to take an active role to their career, and to participate even when facing stereotypes and odds so often working against us.
READ IF: You are a recent college grad just getting a career started, or if you have found yourself in a career rut and are looking to get job searching again.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Elizabeth Bennett, Pride and Prejudice's protagonist, may be my favorite literary characters of all time. She is so strong willed, intelligent, and independent during a time when these characteristics were discouraged in women. She refuses to let societal or peer pressure force her into an undesirable marriage, even when this rebellion leads to judgement and criticism by those closest to her. The love story between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy is also one of my favorites. They are two of the most stubborn characters ever created, and two of the most perfectly matched. The prospect of being pressured into marriage or to find a man, can easily be found in the modern world despite the fact that this book was published in 1813. The characters and story are beautifully crafted, and it remains a book I have not forgotten years after reading.
READ IF: You are looking for a heartwarming love story lead by a strong and quick witted woman.
Yes Please by Amy Poehler
Amy Poehler is one of my favorite comedians, and certainly disproves the stereotype that women aren't funny. This book is as hilarious as expected, but is also shares refreshingly touching and personal essays based on Poehler's life as a comedian, mother, ex-wife, daughter, and friend. Her stories cover childhood, SNL, Parks and Recreation, divorce, having children, and everything in between. Many of these experiences include lessons she has learned along the way, my favorite being the mantra "good for you, not for me." She applies this idea to the idea of the career woman versus the stay at home mom, each often judging the other for their life-choices, and each equally worthy of admiration for their hard work. I have found this idea to be applicable to so many areas of life
READ IF: You are looking for a highly entertaining book filled with life lesson gems.
Let me know your favorite girl power books in the comments below!
