Top 5 Must-Read Works by Women in 2017
Discover the top five influential books by women in 2017, showcasing diverse genres from family sagas to memoirs and short story collections. These acclaimed titles highlight women's voices, experiences, and resilience, making them essential reads for anyone interested in contemporary literature by female authors. From award-winning novels to powerful memoirs, this list offers a rich selection of stories that inspire and challenge readers, reflecting the evolving landscape of women’s contributions to the literary world.
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Women authors have made remarkable strides in the literary scene, producing a diverse array of novels, memoirs, collections of short stories, and nonfiction works. Their narratives provide fresh female perspectives, enriching literature with unique insights. In 2017, numerous books by women garnered critical acclaim, from emerging talents to established writers. Here are five standout titles from that year:
1. ‘Sing, Unburied, Sing’ by Jesmyn Ward
This novel by Jesmyn Ward is a powerful family saga centered on an African-American family in Mississippi. It explores themes of hope, hardship, and family bonds through lyrical prose. The story navigates Mississippi’s history, unearthing difficult truths and examining personal and collective struggles. The book, praised for its poetic language, earned the National Book Award and was listed among Time’s best novels of 2017. Ward, born in Mississippi, previously won the 2011 National Book Award for her debut and is renowned for her evocative storytelling.
2. ‘Manhattan Beach’ by Jennifer Egan
Set in WWII Brooklyn, Jennifer Egan’s ‘Manhattan Beach’ traces the life of Anna Kerrigan, a young woman aspiring to become a diver, and her mob-connected father, Eddie. As their lives intertwine amidst the tumult of the era, secrets and familial bonds come to light. Egan, a Pulitzer Prize winner, crafts a gripping historical thriller that delves into love, loyalty, and mysteries of the past. The narrative spans Anna’s childhood to her adult years, revealing secrets behind her father’s disappearance and her own resilience.
3. ‘Anything is Possible’ by Elizabeth Strout
Elizabeth Strout’s collection of interconnected stories examines the lives of various characters struggling with self-discovery and human emotion. Each story offers a nuanced look into personal lives, revealing surprises and deep insights into human relationships. Strout, a Pulitzer laureate, is acclaimed for her subtle, empathetic storytelling. Her stories explore themes of hope, disappointment, and resilience, making this collection a compelling read for those interested in the complexities of everyday life.
4. ‘The Rules Do Not Apply’ by Ariel Levy
Ariel Levy’s memoir recounts her unconventional journey through life, marked by personal triumphs and tragedies. As a staff writer at The New Yorker, Levy shares her experiences of building her identity, facing social and gender expectations, and dealing with profound loss. Her story reflects on modern life, empowerment, and resilience, resonating broadly with contemporary women. Levy’s candid storytelling earned her the National Magazine Award, highlighting her impact as a powerful voice in modern memoirs.
5. ‘Difficult Women’ by Roxane Gay
Roxane Gay’s ‘Difficult Women’ features 21 vivid stories about women from diverse backgrounds, confronting themes of sex and violence. Her sharp writing captures the complexity and contradictions of modern womanhood—combining stark realism with fantastical elements. Gay’s work celebrates women who defy expectations, exploring their struggles and strengths. As the author of critically acclaimed books, including ‘Bad Feminists,’ Gay continues to challenge societal norms and highlight women's diverse experiences through her compelling stories.
