7 Feminist Books To Read In 2025

Feminism has long been a powerful movement that has shaped and challenged societal norms, contributing to significant advancements in gender equality. One of the most effective ways to gain deeper insight into the feminist movement is through literature. Books that explore feminist themes not only highlight the struggles and triumphs of women throughout history but also provide a lens through which we can understand the intersection of gender, race, and social dynamics. Below is a list of 7 feminist books that should be on every reader’s shelf.

1. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

Set in the 1950s, the novel explores the pressures placed on women to conform to societal expectations of beauty, marriage, and motherhood. Plath’s portrayal of Esther’s descent into depression and her eventual mental breakdown sheds light on the destructive nature of these constraints.

"The Bell Jar" is not only a reflection on mental health but also a critique of the roles that society expects women to play. Its feminist themes continue to resonate with readers, particularly in the context of ongoing conversations about mental health, gender roles, and self-determination.

2. The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan

Published in 1963, the book critiques the societal expectations placed on women to find fulfillment solely through marriage and motherhood. Friedan famously referred to this as the "problem that has no name," a sense of dissatisfaction experienced by many suburban housewives who felt confined by domestic life.

Friedan’s work challenged women to step beyond traditional roles and pursue careers, education, and personal development. It played a significant role in the feminist movement’s fight for workplace equality, reproductive rights, and the broader recognition of women's autonomy.

3. The Mothers by Brit Bennett

Brit Bennett’s "The Mothers" is a compelling fictional exploration of race, class, and gender through the lives of a group of women in a small African-American church community in Southern California. The novel examines the lives of three women: Nadia, the young woman dealing with the consequences of a secret abortion; Aubrey, a church member with her own troubled past; and the older women in the community who form "The Mothers," a group of older women who gossip and offer advice.

Through its examination of motherhood, identity, and the complexities of female friendships, "The Mothers" explores the challenges and sacrifices women face in their personal and social lives. Bennett’s writing is nuanced and poignant, shedding light on the ways societal expectations impact women’s choices and relationships.

4. Gender Trouble by Judith Butler

Published in 1990, the book challenges traditional notions of gender and proposes that gender identity is not an innate or fixed trait but rather a performance that is shaped by cultural norms and expectations. Butler introduces the concept of "performativity," which suggests that gender is something we do rather than something we are.

By questioning the binary understanding of gender and exploring its fluidity, "Gender Trouble" has had a profound impact on feminist and queer theory, shaping contemporary discussions around transgender rights, non-binary identities, and the politics of representation. It’s a complex, academic text, but for those interested in exploring gender beyond the binary, it is an indispensable read.

5. The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

In the fictional Republic of Gilead, women have been stripped of their rights, and their primary function is to bear children for the ruling class. Atwood’s chilling portrayal of a totalitarian society where women are oppressed, commodified, and denied agency resonates with feminist readers and has only gained more relevance in recent years, especially in light of ongoing debates about reproductive rights.

This novel is a powerful warning about the dangers of the erosion of women’s rights and the importance of safeguarding the freedoms that many take for granted.

6. Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez

Caroline Criado Perez’s "Invisible Women" sheds light on the pervasive gender data gap that shapes every aspect of our lives, from healthcare and education to the workplace and urban planning. Through rigorous research, Perez highlights how a lack of gendered data leads to policies, products, and systems that are designed with men in mind, leaving women at a disadvantage.

The book makes a compelling case for the urgent need to address this gender data gap, arguing that women’s needs and experiences are often overlooked, leading to inequality in various sectors. "Invisible Women" is a powerful call to action for better data collection and analysis to create a more equitable world for women. It is a must-read for anyone interested in how the intersection of gender and data affects both individual lives and global systems.

7. Women & Power by Mary Beard

Mary Beard’s "Women & Power: A Manifesto" is an insightful and concise examination of the historical and cultural silencing of women. Drawing on examples from classical mythology, ancient history, and modern politics, Beard explores how women have been excluded from positions of power and influence for centuries. She argues that the cultural narrative of women as powerless or unsuitable for leadership roles has been deeply ingrained in Western society.

Beard’s work is a powerful call to action for women to reclaim their voices and assert their rightful place in the public sphere. "Women & Power" challenges the entrenched gendered biases in politics, media, and history, offering a compelling argument for the redefinition of power and the ways it is distributed. This book is a must-read for those interested in the intersection of history, feminism, and political theory.

Conclusion

These 7 feminist books represent a diverse and powerful collection of voices that challenge societal norms, advocate for gender equality, and inspire action. Whether you are a newcomer to feminism or a seasoned reader, these works will inspire, educate, and challenge you to think critically about gender, power, and equality.