By Rebecca Ceccatelli, Isabella Trew Pichardo, Valentina Leal Marroquín. Cover image: Virginia Woolf illustrated by Anja Stroka for I’M Firenze Digest.
Books instead flowers? You probably know about International Women’s Day, now celebrated on March 8 every year. The United Nations recognised it as a global celebration in 1977 to honour “women’s efforts in favour of peace and the necessity of their full and equal participation in civil and social life”. Despite the progress we have made, we still remember the struggles of our predecessors and continue fighting for women’s rights.
The mimosa flower was originally a symbol of solidarity among women and is now associated with March 8, becoming a gift for women and a sign of appreciation. However, instead of giving a simple flower, have you ever considered gifting your favourite person books that will remind them of their worth in society?
To help you out, we have compiled a list of 5 inspirational books for you that will likely leave a mark of self-awareness on the reader. What are you waiting for? Head to the library and grab one!
Books to inspire: A Room for One’s Own by Virginia Woolf
Written in 1928, A Room of One’s Own is an essay penned by the acclaimed Virginia Woolf when she was invited to deliver a series of lectures on women and writing. The writer’s reflection takes readers of our century on a vivid journey that is still relatable today; the journey is both of a writer seeking subject matter and of a hypothetical sister of Shakespeare, obscured in the shadow of her brother.
In both narratives, women encounter a host of difficulties ranging from the anxiety of a stage never trodden upon to the impossibility of entering libraries simply because they are women.
Woolf writes, “I would venture to guess that Anon, who wrote so many poems without signing them, was often a woman”. The author attempts to demonstrate the conditions that make it possible for a woman writer to exist in society: free space – a room of her own.
Revolutionary, empowering book which opened the 20th century and the path of future achievements
Women Who Run With the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés
Auuu!”, cry the she-wolves who have safely kept their most endangered quality, their instinct.
As you scroll through the pages, you will be transported into an ancient world of myths and timeless wisdom. This “New York Times” best-seller by Clarissa Pinkola Estés invites readers to embrace their wild side and their primitive, raw instincts. It is female desires and passion that have been limited in a male-dominated society full of expectations. Estés invites women to trust their genuine intuition, their honour their true selves, and live authentically.
This book is for all women who seek a connection with nature, as it takes the reader through the ups and downs of the cycle of life, providing nourishing and transformative experiences. The book is filled with insights and empowerment, serving as an elixir of strength that turns women into amazons.
A book to refresh our perspective on identity: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
A man’s greed leads to the creation of a monstrous being that is later abandoned because of its aspect. Sounds familiar?
The story of Frankenstein is reminiscent of the tale of Adam and Eve, where a woman created from a man’s rib is accused of causing our expulsion from heaven. This classic novel dives into themes of creation and reproduction, which are often associated with women’s roles in society.
However, Mary Shelley, a female writer from the 19th century, brings her perspective on identity, power and marginalisation to the story. She explores Victor Frankenstein’s desire to create life without the involvement of a female body, raising questions about male perspectives and control in the field of science. These topics are still relevant today, but for Shelley, writing this exquisite obscure novel was a way to express her anger, highlighting the mistreatment of women in history.
Although her authorship was hidden for a long time, it was eventually discovered and Frankenstein has become a testament to her agency and creativity. It is now considered one of the most important works of literature of all time.
Books about love and friendship: Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton
Everything I Know About Love offers a refreshingly candid exploration of womanhood and self-discovery through Dolly Alderton’s engaging storytelling. With its honesty and relatability, the book invites readers, particularly women in their twenties, to reflect on their own experiences and relationships. Alderton’s memoir is not only entertaining but also serves as a comforting novel for those navigating the complexities of love, friendship, and personal growth.
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
For a deep and thought-provoking read, “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath is a masterful exploration of the complexities of life, mental health, and the struggle for identity in a patriarchal society. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Esther Greenwood, Plath delves into themes of depression, societal pressure, and the journey towards self-discovery. The novel’s raw honesty and introspective narrative offer readers a profound insight into the challenges faced by women in a world shaped by strict gender norms. “The Bell Jar” is a timeless classic that encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences and empathise with the internal struggles of the characters. Plath’s compelling storytelling leaves a lasting impact, urging readers to confront the harsh realities of existence with courage and resilience.
