Mom&Me&Mom by Maya Angelou
Angelou is known for her candid depictions of her most personal thoughts and experiences. In her latest autobiographical work, she addresses her relationship with her mother. This book examines how influential the mother-daughter dynamic is, because it shapes what kind of women we become.
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has gained global notoriety after being featured in Beyoncé’s female empowerment anthem “Flawless.” Americanah is her account of being a Nigerian student in America and her observations about race and politics in the U.S. With scores of women captivated by her feminist ideology as expressed on “Flawless,” Americanah provides deeper insight into Ngozi Adichie’s philosophy.
Claire of The Sea Light by Edwidge Danticat
This is Danticat’s heartbreaking tale of a little girl that goes missing in Ville Rose, Haiti. Through her father’s desperate search for Claire, we uncover the dark secrets and hidden truths of the community where she lives and learn how they are connected to her. This lyrical interwoven tapestry of storylines is similar to that of Toni Morrison’s acclaimed The Bluest Eye and the novel has the same cultural resonance, which makes it an instant must-read.
Lean In: Women, Work and Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg
Sandberg is the chief operating officer of Facebook, and this book addresses the need for women to assume leadership roles in their companies. She also gives advice on how to build a satisfying career, stresses work/life balance and the importance of letting go of the myth of “having it all.” Sandberg humorously provides a blueprint for achieving success in our careers and drives home the need for personal growth and self-awareness.
Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your A– by Meg Medina
It is important for adults to read young adult literature, because it provides access to the issues they face as well as a means to communicate with them about these problems. Medina tackles the issue of bullying in this strikingly realistic novel. Piddy is told Yaqui hates her and wants to fight her. Yaqui’s hatred stems from Piddy being stuck up and soon the bullying consumes Piddy’s life. Piddy is faced with the choice of giving in or overcoming and with so many of our teens facing the same issue, this novel provides insight into the struggles they endure.
–tyesha litz
