Women's History Month: Books you don't want to miss reading

​By: Aleena Khan

Below are some books editor Aleena Khan has recommended in celebration of Women's History

Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly:
Shetterly, a non fiction writer, created a story that focuses on three African-American women who were helping NASA in the 50s and 60s. The book focuses on the three women's struggles in a male dominated field where they face discrimination and racial segregation. The book and movie follow how the women were originally placed in an all back unit for computer calculations but progressed into an engineering team with the white men. 

​The three women end up becoming prominent figures who assisted with some of NASA’s biggest projects, such as the Mercury Apollo Space Program Project, where they sent men to the moon. The book and movie highlight how the women all try to make social progression regarding schools and social rules and expectations.

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Speaking Truth to Power by Anita Hill:
Anita Hill, an American lawyer who is most well known for her accusations of sexual harassment against the U.S. Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas, wrote a novel that raises awareness for sexual harassment in a workplace.

Hill testified for nearly 10 hours that showed her directly addressing the sexual harassment that she faced. The court case ended up drawing unwanted and excessive attention, which caused Hill to disappear from the public eye for around 20 years, when she received a message from Thomas' wife, Ginni.

This incident sparked Hill’s wanting to speak openly about the issues that she experienced. Her novel showcases her journey from being a sheltered citizen after her assault into a well known gender equality activist.

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Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Tales of Extraordinary Women by Elena Favilli:
Favilla created a children's book of 100 bedtime stories that show 100 women’s stories. The book reveals the journey of real women throughout history who were iconic during their lifetime. These women, including Malala Yousafzai, Grace O’Malley, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, all had empowering moments where they tried to fight for gender or racial equality. The novel highlights each woman's life and their greatest accomplishments. 

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