It’s an indisputable fact that women write books that change the way we think about everything—love, work, ourselves and the world around us. For this week’s #WomenWednesday, we are recommending some of our favorite books written by women. The choices from our team run the gamut from timeless classics like Pride and Prejudice to the contemporary short story collection Her Body and Other Parties. It’s a small snapshot—but a pretty solid reading list (if we do say so ourselves.)

Paige Velasquez Budde — Discerning the Voice of God by Priscilla Shirer

Priscilla is one of my favorite authors and speakers. Her ministry as an author has impacted many women who are in different stages of life.

Rusty Shelton — The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman

Katty and Claire are on a mission to close the confidence gap and help women become more confident. This book has changed many lives and is one of my favorite books we have been involved in helping launch. 

Patti Conrad — American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

A well told story of the survival of a migrant family’s journey to America. From the terror in their home town in Mexico to the humanity that helped them survive.

Wes Fang — Still I Rise by Maya Angelou

I discovered Maya Angelou in high school and to this day, feel her poems and voice have withstood the test of time. She’s an inspiration, a pioneer and one whose work I continue to go back to over and over again.

Nichole Williamson — A Minute to Think by Juliet Funt

Juliet’s book A Minute To Think was an incredible read that really helped me regain control of my work life and give me back time in my day. It really helps you prioritize and efficiently work as well as make time for what matters most! The book comes out for everyone August 3 🙂 

Shelby Janner — Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Taylor Jenkins Reid is one of my favorite authors. Her novels often have a rom-com like twist, with characters and stories that make it impossible to put her books down.

Melanie Cloth — The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow

I’m a sucker for good magical realism and I love the idea that doors to other fantastical worlds exist in secret all over our world….it could happen, right? The author is also a very fun Twitter follow.

Fabiana Melendez — Como Agua Para Chocolate (Like Water For Chocolate) by Laura Esquivel

A novel about love, loss, tradition and food with just a touch of realismo mágico (magical realism). The novel is based on Tita’s experiences as the youngest in her family where tradition dictates that she cannot marry as she will be the one to care for her aging mother — the book shares actual recipes that serve as the basis for describing Tita’s emotions during parts of the story.

Katherine Bingham — Her Body and Other Parties by Carmen Maria Machado

A collection of highly creative short stories that discuss the feminine condition. Extremely moving, gorgeously written pieces. Also features queer women as protagonists!

Nathalie Patajo — The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

This memoir is beautifully written and emotionally moving. Growing up poverty-stricken with her dysfunctional parents, Jeannette displays resilience and grace.

Anushree Bhat — Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie

Agatha Christie has written all the classics when it comes to murder mysteries. This book became popular after the movie was released in 2017 and highlighted the high-level of detail Christie puts into her work.

Macey Pieterse — The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

As someone who is a little type A, having Gretchen narrate her systematic way of becoming happier was amusing and informative. Her book is a great read for anyone looking to make tiny changes that have a big impact. 

Avery Huffman — Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

I was forced to read this novel in school, like many others, and I am so glad I was. To this day it remains one of my favorite books, with Jane Austen’s protagonist Elizabeth Bennet being one of the most iconic and enjoyable female characters I’ve ever read.

Caleb Hall — Just As I Am by Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson has such a beautiful soul, fantastic story to tell and such a prolific life in such an important book. 

Sara Pence — Attention Management by Maura Thomas

Attention Management: How to Create Success and Gain Productivity – Every Day has been a game-changer for me, and has really helped me increase my productivity during the workday! The techniques that Maura Thomas outlines have enabled me to create clear boundaries in order to protect my focus each and every day. This is a must read for all professionals!