Although it has always been said that literature does not differentiate between sexes, there is nevertheless a series of books for women, that is, works aimed especially at women. 

Generally, they are books written by and for women, covering the most varied genres and styles, and that have managed to leave behind many of the traditions and complexes of the past.

The most important

There has always been a literature aimed at the female audience. Romantic novels, self-help works or hobbie and craft books are some of the genres and themes traditionally related to women readers. However, the literature does not divide the sexes, as evidenced by the reading habits of women today.

Leaving aside the controversy about whether or not there is a female literature, there are subjects and genres that are very much appreciated by readers. Good examples are titles on female empowerment, entrepreneurship, those that address pregnancy or the menopause process.

Choosing your next female-themed book is not much different than choosing any other work. Focus on your favorite authors and topics, read other readers’ opinions and learn how to choose without getting carried away by just an attractive cover.

The best books for women: Our favorites

Next, check out a suggestion of three of some of the best books for women on the market, according to the reviews of readers who buy through Amazon Brazil. The site has books on all topics, including healthy eating, biographies, essays on feminism, soap operas, historical fiction …

A book for women interested in archetypes

“Women who run with the wolves”, by the Jungian analyst Clarissa Pinkola Estés, traces a relationship between the wolf and women. According to her, women have been treated similarly to these animals, known for their untamedness. Through 19 myths, legends and fairy tales, she brings to light the instinctive nature of women, showing the cultural conditioning experienced by them over the centuries.

 

A book for science fiction fans

The Handmaid’s Tale, written by Margaret Atwood, is a dystopian novel that takes place in a theocratic and totalitarian state, where citizens have no right to defense, nor access to newspapers, magazines, books or films. The story is told from a female perspective and, like most dystopias, it scares readers because it is easy to compare certain events with contemporary historical facts.

Shopping Guide: What you should know about books for women

Is there a female literature? If so, what are its characteristics? These and other questions always come up when it comes to books for women. This guide seeks to address these issues and recommend work written especially for women who may certainly be of interest to you.

Is there female literature?

Although many scholars and literary critics of both sexes believe that literature does not divide gender, there are others who think the opposite. The latter base their position on the existence of eminently feminine styles and themes, such as a romantic novel. There are men who also read novels, but they are a minority.

The division between female and male literature is imposed, in part, by the traditions and culture prevalent in the society in which we live. There are issues considered traditionally feminine, a prejudice that has become strongly ingrained in our society thanks, in part, to the publishing industry.

What are the books for empowered women?

The first time that the term female empowerment was used happened at the World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995. The expression referred to the increase in the number of women in the spheres of power, as well as the increase in their decision-making power.

Today, however, the term also refers to the awareness of women’s power, both individual and collective. There are many works on the empowerment of women, a good example of this genre is the “Feminist Fight Clube: An Office survival manual”, by Jessica Bennett.

Despite being dedicated to the female audience, men should also read it, so that it is possible to eradicate sexist behaviors from the workplace once and for all. Unlike the film Fight Club, by David Fincher, here the first rule is to talk about the feminist fight club!

What are the books for women entrepreneurs?

Women’s empowerment involves entrepreneurship, thanks to its power to break the barriers that hinder women’s personal and work development. If you have the entrepreneurial spirit, self-improvement books are an excellent option to enhance your essential qualities, such as business vision or strategic and multitasking skills.

“Make It Happen”, by Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook’s director of operations, looks at why women face so many difficulties in reaching positions of responsibility in companies. In addition, she gives many practical tips to overcome these challenges that so many women encounter in their professional careers.

Purchasing Criteria

As already mentioned above, there are those who say that there is not really a female literature, despite issues and genders that connect better with the sensitivity of women. Following certain guidelines and recommendations will, in any case, be essential to get it right in your next reading.

  • Choose carefully
  • Favorite topics
  • Preferred authors
  • Do not judge a book by its cover
  • Let yourself be carried away by your intuition

Choose carefully

Choosing your next reading is rarely about chance. On the contrary, it is a process in which you need to analyze what you want to read at that moment. Having decided that, choose a book and find out more about its author and the works he wrote. Read its synopsis, its prologue and don’t get carried away by an ingenious title.

Suggestions from friends and family are also a great way to hit the bull’s-eye when choosing your next book. Explore online forums on literature and read some reviews about the chosen book, as these will be very useful to confirm whether you will like that work or not.

Either way, the only 100% reliable method to find out if you made the right choice is to start reading the book.

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