Summer Reading List: 30 Empowering Books for Women and Girls of All Ages
Summer is the perfect time to slow down, recharge, and reflect... and there’s no better companion for that journey than a good book!
At YWCA of Black Hawk County, we believe in the power of stories to uplift, heal, and inspire. Books can help us see ourselves more clearly, understand others more deeply, and imagine new possibilities for our lives. That’s why we’ve curated a diverse, inclusive, and empowering summer reading list for women and girls of all ages—featuring authors who are telling stories from the heart, and from lived experience.
Whether you’re reading on your front porch, curled up on the couch, or listening to audiobooks on your commute, we hope this list helps you feel seen, heard, and strengthened.
NOTE: Some books include mature content. Please check content warnings or age suitability.
Jump to a Section:
- Empowering Memoirs & Biographies
- Fiction Featuring Strong Female Characters
- Books for Teens & Young Adults
- Children’s Books That Empower
- Nonfiction for Personal Growth
- Start a Summer Book Club
- Final Thoughts
Empowering Memoirs & Biographies by Women Who’ve Changed the World
These powerful true stories shine a light on women who’ve faced adversity, spoken truth to power, and found their voice—often against the odds.
1. Becoming by Michelle Obama
A deeply personal look at the life of the former First Lady as she navigates identity, ambition, and service.
2. Know My Name by Chanel Miller
A moving and courageous memoir from the survivor of the Stanford sexual assault case, reclaiming her identity with strength and grace.
3. I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
The inspiring story of the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner and her fight for girls’ education in Pakistan.
4. Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner
A poignant story about grief, culture, and identity by the Korean-American lead singer of Japanese Breakfast.
5. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
A testament to resilience and the power of literature in overcoming trauma, this memoir chronicles Angelou’s life from threeto 17, detailing her experiences with racism, sexual abuse, and self-discovery in the American South during the 1930s and 40s.
6. Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane Satrapi
This graphic memoir depicts Satrapi’s childhood in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution. She portrays the complexities of growing up in a society undergoing political upheaval, offering insights into identity, freedom, and the impact of war on everyday life.
Fiction Novels That Center Strong, Complex Female Characters
These novels are full of women and girls who are bold, vulnerable, powerful, and real. Their journeys are often difficult—but deeply inspiring.
7. The Color Purple by Alice Walker
A classic tale of resilience and sisterhood in the face of systemic racism, abuse, and poverty.
8. The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
A series of vignettes about a young Latina girl growing up in Chicago, discovering her voice and place in the world.
9. Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid
A timely, thought-provoking novel about race, privilege, and womanhood.
10. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
A witty and moving story of a female scientist in the 1960s who challenges gender roles with both humor and heart.
11. The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo
A novel-in-verse following a 15-year-old Afro-Dominican teenager in Harlem, who discovers slam poetry as a means to understand her mother’s religion and her own relationship to the world.
12. The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré
This unforgettable novel follows a 14-year-old Nigerian girl determined to get an education and speak for herself. Adunni’s courage and resilience will stay with you long after the last page.
13. Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley
A gripping YA thriller rooted in Native culture, featuring an Ojibwe teen who must confront systemic injustice and community secrets.
14. Legendborn by Tracy Deonn
A modern-day reimagining of Arthurian legend through the eyes of a Black teen girl exploring magic, grief, and ancestral power. A fresh and fierce fantasy debut.
15. Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim
A beautifully written fantasy inspired by East Asian folklore, featuring a bold heroine cursed by her stepmother and determined to break the spell and save her brothers.
Books for Teens & Young Adults That Inspire Courage and Confidence
These books are perfect for older teens and young adults navigating identity, relationships, and the journey toward self-confidence.
16. You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson
A joyful, queer love story about a Black girl going after her dreams—on her own terms.
17. Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo
A novel-in-verse that tells the story of two sisters who discover each other after a family tragedy.
18. Moxie by Jennifer Mathieu
A feminist YA novel that encourages girls to stand up and speak out.
19. This Book Is Feminist by Jamia Wilson
A colorful, inclusive guide to intersectional feminism—perfect for teens exploring social justice.
20. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
A must-read that tackles police violence, activism, and the power of speaking up. Starr’s journey is raw, powerful, and deeply relevant.
Children’s Books That Empower Girls from a Young Age
Even our youngest readers can benefit from stories that celebrate diversity, self-love, and determination.
21. Ambitious Girl by Meena Harris
A vibrant picture book that shows girls they can be strong, assertive, and ambitious.
22. Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o
A beautiful story about colorism, self-esteem, and learning to love the skin you’re in.
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23. She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton
A collection of short stories about women in history who didn’t give up—plus a full series of titles focused on specific changemakers.
24. Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry
A joyful story about a Black father learning to style his daughter’s hair.
25. The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad
A moving tale about pride, identity, and standing tall, from the perspective of a young Muslim girl.
Nonfiction Books to Spark Growth and Personal Empowerment
These reads are great for women looking to reconnect with themselves, set boundaries, and build confidence.
26. Untamed by Glennon Doyle
A fiery and freeing call to listen to your inner voice and break away from society’s expectations.
27. Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab
A practical, trauma-informed guide to setting boundaries and protecting your mental health.
28. Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach
A blend of mindfulness and psychology to help you embrace your true self.
29. The Body Is Not an Apology by Sonya Renee Taylor
A must-read on body liberation, self-love, and dismantling systems of shame.
30. What Happened to You? by Dr. Bruce Perry & Oprah Winfrey
A compassionate exploration of trauma, healing, and resilience.
Start a Summer Book Club or Reading Group
Books are even better when shared. If one of these titles speaks to you, consider starting a summer reading group with friends, co-workers, or family members. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a space where you can connect, reflect, and lift each other up.
- Pick a theme or rotate book selections
- Meet in person, online, or via group text
- Use your local library to borrow books or audiobooks
- Consider reading with your kids, nieces, or younger family members—it’s a powerful way to bond
Final Thoughts: Let Stories Empower You This Summer
Reading can be an act of healing. Of discovery. Of empowerment. This summer, let yourself be moved by the words of women who’ve walked the path, made mistakes, challenged systems, and kept going. Let their stories remind you of your strength—and your worth.
Whether you’re a teen just finding your voice, a mother navigating stress, a survivor rebuilding, or a leader looking to grow, we hope this list offers something that speaks to you.
Explore More With YWCA Black Hawk County
The YWCA offers year-round programs and services that support women and girls across all stages of life. From youth empowerment to advocacy, fitness classes, and more—we’re here for you. Visit our website to learn more.
And if you pick up one of these books, tag us on social—we’d love to hear what moved you.
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