Top reads that celebrate women this International Women's Day

Women's stories deserve to be heard and celebrated. Through the power of books, women authors have accelerated progress toward a stronger and more inclusive world for all. 

This International Women's Day, we’re sharing powerful narratives and diverse perspectives of women writers through a collection of recommended reads available to borrow from Auckland Council Libraries. Find your sense of belonging among these unique reads and remember – your voice matters!

Unearthing her-story and the power of the past

Delve into the captivating world of women's history with our expertly curated lists. Compiled by our passionate librarians, these selections shed light on true stories of extraordinary women throughout the ages who went unheard in their own time. Explore the journeys of changemakers, pioneers and everyday heroes who have shaped our world.

• Women's histories – unveil hidden figures behind historical events and the empires of times long past.
• Inspire inclusion – uncover inspirational stories learn how to take your space and find your financial independence. 
• Our bodies, our image – explore the complexity of identity, image and women’s bodies.

Exceptional literature from women everywhere

Join a global community of readers in celebrating authors who publish powerful stories from every corner of the planet. Embark on a literary adventure with the renowned Women's Prize for Fiction longlist and Non-Fiction longlist, 2024. Celebrating exceptional works by women writers, these prestigious awards highlight a captivating range of genres, styles and voices. Discover a world of thought-provoking stories waiting to be explored for free at your local library or by borrowing online.

Stories from our Australian neighbours 

Dive into powerful narratives from across the ditch. Our latest showcase, 2024 Stella Selections: Australian Women's Writing, features recently announced winning titles from the Stella Prize, a champion for gender equality and a driving force for fresh perspectives in Australian literature. This reading list offers a glimpse into the vibrant world created by talented female writers from across the Tasman Sea. Explore the contenders for this prestigious award and discover voices that are shaping the future of Australian storytelling.

Extraordinary female characters in fiction

Looking for a starting point? We've got you covered! Explore our reading list "Read-alikes: Lessons in Chemistry" featuring titles similar to the popular novel and hit TV mini-series, where our strong protagonist Elizabeth Zott challenges the status quo and embraces her individuality in the 1950s. Our expert librarians have picked out titles with similar themes and depth, introducing you to strong and complex characters whose stories will etch themselves on your soul.

Looking forward, together

Join us on this journey of celebrating women's voices and stories. Visit your local Auckland Council Library branch or explore our online resources to discover a world of stories, knowledge and inspiration.

Happy International Women's Day!