PVLF 2025

8 Must-Read Books to Celebrate Womanhood this International Women’s Day

Dive into empowering narratives by women authors this International Women's Day. Explore diverse experiences and celebrate womanhood with our must-read book list!
on Mar 08, 2024

International Women's Day, celebrated annually on March 8th, is a day to honor the remarkable achievements of women across the globe. So, what better way to celebrate and learn than by diving into the inspiring works of women authors? We've hand-picked 8 must-read books by some incredibly talented writers that will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take on the world.

1. “Savitribai Phule” by Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta

What better way to start the list than with India’s first female teacher? This book by Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta explores the seldomly discussed life of one of the most influential women in India’s history: Savitribai Phule. Not only did she herself ‘dare’ to get education being a low-caste Shudra woman in a patriarchal colonial India, but she also resolved to pass on her knowledge to other women. The book also introduces us to two more women: Sagunabai Kshirsagar and Fatima Sheikh, who, along with Phule ji, persevered against the oppressive forces of society to relentlessly work for not only women's education but also widow, untouchables and backward class’ emancipation.

2. “I Kick And I Fly” by Ruchira Gupta

Based on true events, this story by Ruchira Gupta sheds light on the dark reality of many women born into extreme poverty. The book revolves around the story of Heera, a 14-year-old girl living on the outskirts of Bihar’s Red Light District. She knows that her father plans to sell her into sex trade to pay off debts. However, her life changes as she chances upon the power of kung fu. This is an unforgettable story of overcoming adversity, empowerment and the discovery that fate can be rewritten and destiny can be disrupted.

3. “Growing Up Gracefully” by Sumita Bose

Saying “Sex Education” out loud can create a pin-drop silence in even the busiest of Indian households. There is still a lot of reluctance in our country when it comes to talking extensively about sex and growing up. This book by Sumita Bose serves as a comprehensive guide for adolescent girls and explores important topics like puberty, periods, body image, personal grooming, reproductive health, and grooming. This could be the perfect gift to teenage girls to give them correct information for their growing years.

4. “Divorce Is Normal” by Shasvathi Siva

Another taboo for women in this country is divorce. As the title suggests, this book by Shasvathi Siva is a crucial reminder that divorce is indeed normal. Siva shares her experience of the whole divorce process; from finally deciding to stand up for herself, preparing herself mentally, dealing with societal stigma, and then finally navigating through the complex legal process. Above all, it is a tale of self-love, and choosing to live a life on one’s own terms. Filled with practical tips, comforting stories & endless compassion, this book is an invaluable companion to anyone contemplating separation & divorce.

5. “The Day I Became A Runner” by Sohini Chattopadhyay

Within the less discussed topic, i.e., women’s sports, this book focuses on the even lesser-discussed one: Running. Through her book, Sohini Chattopadhyay explores Indian history through the lens of women's running journeys. It features eight inspiring athletes across generations, highlighting their achievements, societal challenges, and the fight for recognition they faced. From overcoming poverty and discrimination to defying gender expectations, this book is evidence of the triumph of the female spirit.

6. “Ambapali” by Tanushree Podder

Tanushree Podder's Ambapali is an engrossing historical fiction about the royal courtesan of Vaishali, Ambapali. Podder beautifully depicts the transition and development of Ambapali's character throughout time, how she went from being a courtesan to being the nagarvadhu and gaining immense power among the nobility. Attaining all this power, she takes a step that no one had expected: renouncing all worldly pleasures to embrace Buddhism. It is a powerful tale of a young woman being put into a male-dominated space who learns to navigate and rule that space and finally leaves it all on her own accord.

7. Women In The Wild by Anita Mani

How many Indian women wildlife biologists can you name? This is the question that this book asks, and to fill this knowledge gap, Anita Mani brings you the stories of India’s most brilliant women wildlife biologists. From India’s first ‘Birdwoman’ Jamal Ara, ‘Turtle girl’ J. Vijaya, Leopard expert Vidya Athreya, and restoration ecologist Divya Mudappa, among many others, the book explores their career trajectory, the challenges, wins and losses, complete with a sprinkling of their personal life.

8. Dare To Shine by Kamini Kusum

And the final book in our list is an incredible account of 20 extraordinary Indian women. This book by Kamini Kusum narrates the stories of some incredible women who defied expectations to achieve greatness. From our first tribal female president, a female spy in the Indian National Army, the first Indian woman to climb Mount Everest, and a private detective, among many others, the book celebrates these women who shattered stereotypes and paved the way for others. Read their inspiring journeys and discover how they dared, dreamed, and ultimately, did it!

So, that concludes our list of 8 incredible works by 8 incredible women authors. From the fight for education to breaking societal taboos, and from the world of sports to the wonders of wildlife, these books offer a glimpse into diverse experiences and journeys of empowerment. So, grab a cup of coffee, curl up with a good book, and celebrate the indomitable spirit of womanhood!