Hello everybody! I am asking for recommendations for books following my favourite theme… “women striving to make it in the world”
I would prefer these to be historical fiction or classic novels, but I do enjoy some modern ones too.. such as My Year of Rest and Relaxation. Semi-autobiographical is fine too. I feel I can really relate to books that delve into the female experience, especially ones where she is struggling to find meaning.
My favourite books I’ve read that (in some cases loosely) follow this theme are:
- The Artifical Silk Girl by Irmgurd Keun
- Good Morning Midnight by Jean Rhys
- The L-Shaped Room by Lynne Reid Banks
- Sweet Tooth by Ian McEwan
by Solid_Mountain_2999
7 Comments
I think you may enjoy the “Maisie Dobbs” series by Jacqueline Winspear.
For the era, she was a trailblazer being an independent Private Investigator and Psychologist. She struggles in dating relationships because of her commitment to her work and those who work for her. She’s witty, intelligent, well respected by her peers, and is devoted to taking care of those she loves, primarily her dad who is still struggling with the loss of his wife her mother. She has a few personal demons from her past, and copes with new struggles as her life and career moves forward.
Great audiobook narration performances by Orlagh Cassidy
Lone Women by Victor Lavelle sounds like it would match your requirements.
The Neapolitan series by Elena Ferrante! First book is My Brilliant Friend.
The Four Winds
The Nightingale both by Kristen Hannah
Just to mix it up a bit, here’s a travel memoir ‘The Road Rises’ by Sarah Dunne. Very funny – like I was snorting with laughter during lots of it. Solo mum, empty nester looking for Mr Right and meaning. Such witty, clever writing. Joyous and uplifting.
Dear Mad’m by Patterson,
Miss Bensons Beetle,
The longings of women by Marge Piercy,
The language of flowers,
The Bean trees by Barbara Kingsolver
The Four Winds, Kristin Hannah – woman raising her kids during the Dust Bowl. Grapes of Wrath timeframe (but obviously can’t be compared to GoW, which is a classic)