As we celebrate Women’s History Month at KCLSU, there’s no better time to dive into powerful feminist literature that goes beyond the surface; exploring the intersections of class, race, gender, sexuality and culture. We hope you enjoy these thought-provoking and intersectional reads.

“The Colour Purple” by Alice Walker 

An emotionally charged narrative following the life of Celie, an African American woman in the early 20th century South, as she navigates through abuse, sisterhood, and self-discovery. 

 

“I am Malala” by Malala Yousafzai 

Malala's powerful memoir takes us through her unyielding fight for education in Pakistan, providing a personal account of her resilience and commitment against the backdrop of cultural challenges. 

 

“Persepolis” by Marjane Satrapi 

A graphic novel that vividly recounts Satrapi's coming-of-age during the Islamic Revolution in Iran, offering a deeply personal exploration of feminism, religion, and cultural identity. 

 

"Half of a Yellow Sun" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie 

Set against the backdrop of the Nigerian Civil War, this novel intricately weaves the lives of three women, revealing the impact of conflict on their relationships and societal roles. 

 
 

"The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood 

A dystopian masterpiece that paints a chilling picture of a patriarchal society, exploring themes of reproductive rights, oppression, and resistance through the eyes of the protagonist, Offred. 

 
"Woman at Point Zero" by Nawal El Saadawi 

Saadawi's novel, based on her conversations with a woman awaiting execution, delves into the societal injustices faced by women in Egypt, offering a stark commentary on gender norms. 

 
"Purple Hibiscus" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie 

A compelling coming-of-age story set in Nigeria, following the journey of a teenage girl named Kambili as she navigates themes of domestic violence, religious indoctrination, and personal growth. 

 
"The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy 

Roy's novel unfolds in Kerala, India, exploring the lives of two twins and their entanglement with societal norms, caste prejudices, and the constraints placed on women. 

 

"Wild Swans" by Jung Chang 

This multigenerational family memoir spans 20th-century China, providing a gripping account of three women's lives against the backdrop of political upheavals and societal changes. 

 

"Sister Outsider" by Audre Lorde 

A collection of essays by Audre Lorde, a Black lesbian feminist, delving into issues of race, gender, and sexuality, offering insightful perspectives on activism and personal identity. 

 
These feminist reads promise not just to explore intersectional themes but to immerse you in the rich narratives of women's lives, celebrating their resilience, strength, and diversity. Looking for a place to pick up one of our recommendations? Take a look at our guide to feminist reading in London here. Happy reading!