Women’s History Month celebrates the accomplishments of women in American history, as well as the achievements of women today. The first International Women’s Day was organized on March 19, 1911 by Clara Zetkin. In 1981, Congress officially passed a document declaring that the week of March 8 would include International Women’s Day. This week was later extended to a full month in 1987.

In honor of Women’s History Month, I have scoured the web for the best books that describe and applaud the real achievements of both women in history, and women of today. I also included one fictional novel of the same theme.

1. The Hiding Place – Corrie Ten Boom
2. I Am Malala – Malala Yousafzai
3. The Color Purple – Alice Walker
4. Hidden Figures – Margot Lee Shetterly (now a major motion picture)
5. Downing Street Years – Margaret Thatcher
6. Why Not Me – Mindy Kaling

All of these books are written by women and describe their obstacles and success. Close out your month of March with a strong finish and read one (or more!) of the books on that list, or choose your own. Happy Women’s History Month!