The Greatest Books of All Time Written by Women

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This collection epitomizes the pinnacle of literature authored by women, aggregating selections from 305 'best of' book lists into a definitive guide to the most acclaimed works by female writers. This aggregation reflects a comprehensive evaluation of literary achievements, offering a rich tapestry of perspectives and voices. For a deeper understanding of our selection methodology and the rigorous criteria behind these rankings, please visit our rankings page.

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  1. 3026. The Last House On Needless Street by Catriona Ward

    This novel is a gripping psychological thriller that delves deep into the mysteries surrounding a secluded house at the edge of a forest, where the reclusive Ted lives with his daughter Lauren and a cat named Olivia. The narrative intricately weaves between their perspectives, revealing the dark secrets and traumatic pasts that bind them. As the story unfolds, the arrival of a new neighbor seeking answers about her sister's long-ago disappearance sets off a chain of events that leads to shocking revelations. The book masterfully blurs the lines between reality and illusion, exploring themes of memory, identity, and redemption, ultimately revealing that nothing is as it seems in this haunting tale of horror and suspense.

    The 11117th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 3027. All That She Carried by Tiya Miles

    "All That She Carried" is a poignant exploration of the emotional and historical journey of a single cotton sack passed down through three generations of Black women, beginning with an enslaved woman named Rose who gave it to her nine-year-old daughter, Ashley, when she was sold away. The sack, which contained a few precious items, serves as a powerful symbol of love, resilience, and survival. Through meticulous research and evocative narrative, the book delves into the impact of slavery on individual lives and the enduring strength of maternal love across time and circumstance, revealing the profound connections between past and present.

    The 11117th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3028. Ruby Finley Vs. The Interstellar Invasion by K. Tempest Bradford

    In this captivating science fiction adventure, readers are introduced to Ruby Finley, a young girl whose life takes an extraordinary turn when she encounters a group of aliens. These aren't your typical extraterrestrial visitors; they're on the run and in desperate need of Ruby's help to save their planet from an impending interstellar invasion. As Ruby embarks on this unexpected journey, she discovers her own inner strength and the true value of friendship and courage. Set against a backdrop of cosmic battles and intergalactic intrigue, this story combines elements of fantasy and science fiction to explore themes of resilience, diversity, and the importance of standing up for what's right, making it a thrilling read for young adventurers.

    The 11127th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 3029. Red Memory by Tania Branigan

    "Red Memory" delves into the complex legacy of Mao Zedong's rule in China, exploring how it continues to shape the nation's identity and politics. Through personal stories and interviews, the book uncovers the deep and often conflicting emotions of Chinese citizens who lived through the tumultuous periods of the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution. The narrative reveals a society grappling with its past, where personal memories of suffering, resilience, and ideological fervor coexist with a state-driven narrative that both reveres and selectively forgets aspects of its own history. This exploration highlights the challenges of reconciling individual trauma with collective memory and the ongoing impact of Mao's era on contemporary China.

    The 11127th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 3030. Wayfarers by Becky Chambers

    "Wayfarers" is a science fiction series that takes readers on a journey through a richly imagined universe filled with diverse species and cultures. The series focuses on the lives and interactions of its characters, who often find themselves on a spaceship or space station, exploring themes of identity, family, and belonging. Each book stands on its own, telling a unique story that delves into the complexities of interspecies politics, personal relationships, and the quest for meaning in a vast and varied cosmos. The narrative is celebrated for its warm, character-driven approach, offering a refreshing take on the genre that prioritizes the heart and soul of its ensemble over traditional space opera tropes.

    The 11130th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 3031. The Just City by Jo Walton

    In this philosophical science fiction novel, the story revolves around the goddess Athena's ambitious experiment: to create a city based on the principles of Plato's Republic. With the help of time-travel and robots, she gathers scholars and thinkers from across history, as well as children to be educated as "philosopher kings," to populate the city. The narrative explores the complexities of implementing Plato's ideas in practice, examining issues of consent, the nature of excellence, and the pursuit of the greater good. As the experiment unfolds, the characters struggle with the challenges of realizing a theoretically just society and the ethical dilemmas that arise from their pursuit of an idealized vision of justice.

    The 11134th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 3032. Radiance by Catherynne M. Valente

    "Radiance" is a genre-blending novel that weaves together a tapestry of mystery and speculative fiction, set in an alternate universe where the golden age of Hollywood intersects with space exploration. The story revolves around Severin Unck, a documentary filmmaker and the daughter of a movie mogul, who disappears while investigating the strange happenings on the distant planet of Venus. Her vanishing act leads to a labyrinthine journey through a solar system alive with silent film stars, space whales, and other bizarre wonders, as characters attempt to piece together the puzzle of her disappearance through films, scripts, and interviews. The narrative explores themes of storytelling, the nature of reality, and the impact of cinema, all while challenging the traditional structure of a novel with its unique, non-linear approach.

    The 11134th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 3033. The Philosopher Kings by Jo Walton

    Set in a society that strives to recreate the philosophical and communal ideals of Plato's Republic, "The Philosopher Kings" follows the lives of the inhabitants of this experimental city-state twenty years after its founding. The narrative centers around the political and personal upheavals that ensue after the death of one of the community's leaders, leading to a quest for vengeance and a journey across the sea. This odyssey confronts the characters with pirates, new societies, and divine encounters, all the while challenging their convictions and the practicality of their pursuit of the ideal. The story is a blend of speculative fiction and philosophical exploration, examining the complexities of human nature, governance, and the pursuit of knowledge and justice.

    The 11134th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 3034. Forgotten First Citizen: John Bigelow by Margaret Clapp

    "Forgotten First Citizen: John Bigelow" is a comprehensive biography of John Bigelow, a significant yet underappreciated figure in 19th-century American history. The book traces Bigelow's life from his humble beginnings to his influential roles as a journalist, diplomat, and statesman. It details his contributions to the abolitionist movement, his service as the U.S. Minister to France during the Civil War, and his efforts to establish the New York Public Library. The biography paints a vivid portrait of a man who was deeply committed to public service and intellectual pursuits, and whose legacy has been largely overlooked.

    The 11138th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 3035. Washington, Village and Capital, 1800-1878 by Constance McLaughlin Green

    This book provides a comprehensive history of Washington D.C. from 1800 to 1878, from its early days as a small village to its development into the nation's capital. The author examines the political, social, and architectural growth of the city, including the construction of significant buildings like the Capitol and the White House. The book also explores the impact of major historical events such as the War of 1812 and the Civil War on the city's evolution.

    The 11138th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 3036. In the Days of McKinley by Margaret Leech

    "In the Days of McKinley" is a comprehensive biography of the 25th President of the United States, William McKinley. The book provides a detailed account of McKinley's personal life, his political career, and the significant events during his presidency, including the Spanish-American War and the annexation of Hawaii. The narrative also delves into the social and political climate of the era, providing a vivid picture of America at the turn of the 20th century. The book ends with the tragic assassination of McKinley, examining its impact on the nation.

    The 11138th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 3037. Johnathan Edward by Ola Elizabeth Winslow

    This book explores the life and work of Jonathan Edwards, a prominent American preacher, theologian, and missionary during the 18th century. The author delves into Edwards' personal life, his teachings, his role in the Great Awakening, and his significant influence on American Protestantism. The book also provides a comprehensive look at the social and religious climate of the time, offering readers a deeper understanding of Edwards' impact and legacy.

    The 11138th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 3038. Julia Ward Howe by Laura E. Richards, Maud Howe Elliott

    This biography provides an in-depth look into the life of Julia Ward Howe, a prominent abolitionist and social activist best known for writing "The Battle Hymn of the Republic." The book explores Howe's early life, her marriage, and her growing involvement in social reform movements, including women's suffrage. It also details her literary contributions and her enduring legacy in American history.

    The 11138th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 3039. John C. Calhoun: American Portrait by Margaret Louise Coit

    This biography provides a comprehensive view of John C. Calhoun, an influential American statesman and political theorist during the first half of the 19th century. It delves into his life, his role as a leader in the Democratic party, his service as Vice President to both John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson, and his strong advocacy for states' rights and slavery. The book also explores his complex personality, his political philosophies and his impact on the shape of the American nation.

    The 11138th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 3040. Paul Revere and the World He Lived In by Esther Forbes

    "Paul Revere and the World He Lived In" is a comprehensive biography that explores the life and times of Paul Revere, a key figure in the American Revolutionary War. The book delves into his career as a silversmith, his role as a courier and patriot, and his participation in the infamous midnight ride. The narrative also gives readers a detailed insight into the social, political, and economic landscape of 18th century Boston, thereby providing a vivid image of the world Revere inhabited.

    The 11138th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 3041. Son of the Wilderness by Linnie Marsh Wolfe

    "Son of the Wilderness" is a biography that chronicles the life and accomplishments of a renowned naturalist and conservationist. The book explores his early years growing up in the harsh wilderness, the experiences and influences that shaped his passion for nature, and his tireless efforts in advocating for the preservation of natural landscapes. The book also highlights his instrumental role in the establishment of the National Park Service and his enduring legacy in the field of environmental conservation.

    The 11138th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 3042. A Gathering Of Shadows by V. E. Schwab

    In this fantasy sequel, the story continues to follow the adventures of Kell, an Antari magician who can travel between parallel Londons, and Lila Bard, a daring thief who has seized a chance to escape her grey life for a more colorful one. As Red London prepares for the Element Games—an extravagant international competition of magic—a dark force is growing, threatening to engulf all the Londons in darkness. Meanwhile, Lila and Kell must navigate their evolving relationship and the dangers that come with it, as they grapple with their identities and the consequences of their actions in a world where peril and magic intertwine.

    The 11238th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 3043. Every Heart A Doorway by Seanan McGuire

    In a narrative that blends fantasy with a touch of the macabre, the story unfolds in a boarding school for children who have returned from magical worlds where they felt they truly belonged. These wayward souls struggle to adapt to their mundane lives, yearning to find their way back to the fantastical realms from which they were expelled. The protagonist, a girl who once wandered a land of the dead, must navigate the complex dynamics of her fellow students while the school becomes the setting of a mysterious and sinister series of events. As she delves into the investigation, the school's purpose and the students' stories intertwine, revealing the painful reality that not all doors to magical worlds can or should be reopened.

    The 11238th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 3044. Necessity by Jo Walton

    "Necessity" is the third book in a philosophical science fiction series that follows the residents of a distant planet created by the goddess Athena to experiment with Plato's ideal society. The story takes place generations after the founding of the city, where gods, humans, and sentient robots coexist. The narrative explores complex themes such as the nature of choice, the existence of gods, and the development of societies. When the planet faces a potential existential threat, its inhabitants must grapple with their destiny and the implications of their existence within a universe where the lines between myth and reality are blurred.

    The 11238th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 3045. Down Among The Sticks And Bones by Seanan McGuire

    This dark fantasy novella delves into the backstory of Jack and Jill, twin sisters who, discontent with their strict upbringing, stumble through a portal into a grim otherworld. In this realm, they find themselves on divergent paths: one sister apprentices under a mad scientist, embracing logic and science, while the other is swept into the world of a vampire, seduced by the promise of power and belonging. As they navigate this eerie and dangerous world, their bond is tested, and they confront the harsh realities of choice, consequence, and the deeply ingrained desire to find a place where they truly fit in.

    The 11246th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 3046. A Conjuring Of Light by V. E. Schwab

    In this thrilling conclusion to a dark fantasy trilogy, the magical city of Red London is under threat from a malevolent force that has already wreaked havoc in neighboring worlds. The story follows a group of heroes, including a roguish pirate, a stubborn prince, and a powerful magician, as they band together to protect their home from the encroaching darkness. With high stakes and a blend of adventure, romance, and sorcery, the characters must navigate treacherous politics, personal demons, and an epic confrontation with an ancient enemy. The fate of multiple worlds hangs in the balance as they attempt to perform a dangerous act of magic—a conjuring of light—to vanquish the shadow once and for all.

    The 11246th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 3047. Beneath The Sugar Sky by Seanan McGuire

    In this fantastical novella, readers return to a whimsical world where doors lead to magical lands reflecting the true nature of the children who find them. The narrative follows a diverse group of friends who embark on a quest across these fantastical realms to resurrect a friend who has died before her time. Their journey is one of self-discovery, facing the complexities of identity and belonging, and challenging the very rules of life and death. With its vivid world-building and poignant exploration of what it means to find one's place in the world, the story weaves a tale of adventure, friendship, and the lengths one will go to right the balance of the universe.

    The 11257th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 3048. The Fated Sky by Mary Robinette Kowal

    Set in an alternate 1961 where a meteorite has devastated the Earth and accelerated the space race, the narrative follows an astronaut as she navigates the complexities of space exploration and her role in the international effort to colonize Mars. Facing both technical challenges and social dynamics within the crew, she must contend with the era's pervasive sexism and political tensions, all while dealing with the personal sacrifices required for humanity's survival. The book blends historical detail with speculative fiction, exploring themes of duty, ambition, and the drive for scientific advancement against the backdrop of an alternate history of the space program.

    The 11257th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 3049. In An Absent Dream by Seanan McGuire

    This novel follows the journey of a young girl who discovers a magical doorway that leads her to the Goblin Market, a realm where fair value must be given for fair value received. As she navigates this enchanting yet strict world, she finds a place where she truly belongs, with rules that make sense to her. However, the girl must balance her life between the Market and her reality at home, grappling with the consequences of her choices and the price that must be paid for the life she desires. Her story is a poignant exploration of the sacrifices we make for the places we call home and the sometimes painful decisions involved in growing up and finding where we belong.

    The 11264th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 3050. The Kingdom Of Copper by S. A. Chakraborty

    In this enthralling fantasy sequel, the tale continues of a young con artist of Cairo who is immersed in a magical world she never knew existed. Now, trapped within the royal court of Daevabad, she faces a dire situation as old tensions between djinn tribes escalate, threatening to ignite a civil war. With a city brimming with unrest and her loved ones in peril, she must navigate treacherous political waters to protect her heritage and secure peace, all while grappling with her own powers and the haunting legacy of a long-lost city. As alliances shift and dangerous enemies emerge, the future of the magical kingdom hangs in the balance.

    The 11264th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download