Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on the (at times, still overlooked) contributions of women. In honor of the dedication, ostracization, and relentlessness of women in our country’s history, I have put together a list of 10 YA adult novels with strong female protagonists. Read on for my favorites as well as a bonus resource at the end that pairs great with these YA novels.
1. Tierney from The Grace Year by Kim Liggett
At the cusp of womanhood, Garner County girls are banished for their grace year. Believing their youth is a form of magic, young girls spend the year in the wild in order to return purified. As Tierney’s own grace year looms closer she realizes that it isn’t just the elements she will need to worry about – the threat of the other girls are just as dangerous.
2. Alina from Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
One refugee holds the fate of the nation in her hands. Alina manages to save her friend with a dormant power, and in return, she is taken from her home and brought to the royal court. Threats from the Shadow Fold ever-looming and a nation turning to her untamed power, Alina finds herself confronted with secrets abroad and within.
3. Willowdean from Dumplin’ by Julie Murphy
Up against the reputation of her beauty-queen mother, Willowdean has always felt confident in her self-proclaimed “fat girl” body. After a potential new love startles her confidence, she seeks to regain her mojo by entering the beauty pageant.
4. Jeannette from The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
This beautiful autobiography tells the tale of a family’s unconditional love despite its flaws. Jeannette shares her nonconforming upbringing turned dysfunctional as her parents struggle with family responsibility. Despite odds, Jeannette gets out – yet still describes her parents and upbringing with affection.
5. Henrietta from The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
The biography of Henrietta Lacks (known in the scientific world as HeLa) is such an impactful read. Her “immortal” cells made scientific marvels possible: developing the polio vaccine, effects’ of the atom bomb, advances in IVF and gene mapping. Skloot reveals, however, the descendants of Henrietta have struggled with the fight against an industry that has a history of unethical experimentation on African-Americans.
6. Jo Kuan from The Downstairs Girl by Stacey Lee
As a lady’s maid, Jo Kuan works for the cruel daughter of an elite family. In juxtaposition, she moonlights as an advice columnist. With the rise of popularity, Jo Kuan butts up against society’s views on race and gender. Opponents search for the real identity of her pseudonym just as she learns more about her own family secrets.
7. Josie from Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys
The daughter of a brothel prostitute, Josie dreams of a better life outside the French Quarter. Unfortunately, her plan to leave and attend college is thwarted by a mysterious death. She’s tied to the investigation, and up against her mother, conscience, and the madam of her street.
8. Emoni from With the Fire On High by Elizabeth Acevedo
Emoni’s life is dictated by responsibilities and rules. Support her abuela. Care for her daughter. Make the tough decisions. Senior Emoni just does what needs to be done. But her passion and talent thrive in the kitchen. She has no time for the culinary class at school, no money for the class trip to Spain, and should realistically let go of the dream of working in a real kitchen. Yet, she can’t.
9. Hazel from Lovely War by Julie Berry
Why are Love and War eternally drawn to one another? It’s a question the goddess Aphrodite seeks to answer as she tells two love stories from the cusp of World War I. In Hazel’s case, she falls in love immediately and deeply with James just as he is shipped to the killing fields. War is no match for Love.
10. Muir from What I Carry by Jennifer Longo
There is one rule Muir has learned by living in foster care. Pack light. That includes emotional baggage. No attachments to friends, foster families, or boyfriends. There’s just one year left before she ages out and she’s determined to avoid any “extra” weight. Then she meets Francine, Kira, and Sean.
Bonus! Add in Some Nonfiction
These amazing novels make an excellent pairing with my nonfiction bundle, created specifically for Women’s History Month. Each resource is flexible, engaging, and includes original reading passages with comprehension activities. These informational texts feature Alice Paul, Alice Walker, Malala Yousafzai, Queen Elizabeth II, and Kamala Harris.
Tell me about your favorite leading ladies in the literary world. I love to add to my reading list and enjoy having new works for my students to explore. Comment here or find me on Facebook and Instagram and share your favorite Women’s History Month reads.
Happy teaching!
