Top 5 Female-Authored Books of 2017
Explore the top five remarkable books authored by women in 2017, showcasing diverse genres including fiction, memoir, and short stories. These titles highlight female perspectives, resilience, and societal themes through compelling narratives by acclaimed authors like Jesmyn Ward, Jennifer Egan, Elizabeth Strout, Ariel Levy, and Roxane Gay. Perfect for literature lovers seeking literary excellence and empowering stories that reflect modern women's experiences, these books have received multiple awards and critical recognition. Discover inspiring stories that celebrate female voices and narratives in contemporary literature.
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Women have made a powerful impact in the literary world over the past year. Their diverse works—ranging from novels and short stories to memoirs and nonfiction—have provided fresh female perspectives that resonate deeply. The year 2017 saw numerous outstanding books by female authors, from emerging talents to established writers. Here are five notable titles that stood out:
1. ‘Sing, Unburied, Sing’ by Jesmyn Ward
Jesmyn Ward’s novel ‘Sing, Unburied, Sing’ centers on a compelling family saga. It vividly depicts an African-American family’s life, blending themes of hope, adversity, and resilience.
2. ‘Manhattan Beach’ by Jennifer Egan
Written by Pulitzer Prize winner Jennifer Egan, ‘Manhattan Beach’ is a historical thriller set during WWII Brooklyn. It chronicles the intertwined lives of Anna Kerrigan, who aspires to become a diver, and her mob-connected father, Eddie.
The story, beginning with Anna’s childhood visit to a mysterious man, unfolds over years, revealing family secrets, loyalty, and betrayal. An engaging and unforgettable read, it vividly captures Brooklyn's wartime atmosphere and personal struggles.
3. ‘Anything is Possible’ by Elizabeth Strout
Elizabeth Strout’s ‘Anything is Possible’ is a collection of interconnected short stories, delving into human relationships and personal growth. Breaking new ground, Strout explores themes of identity, resilience, and hidden truths through nuanced characters.
An acclaimed author, Strout’s works include ‘Olive Kitteridge’ and ‘My Name Is Lucy Barton,’ and her stories in this book explore the inner lives of ordinary people navigating emotional complexities and societal expectations.
4. ‘The Rules Do Not Apply’ by Ariel Levy
In her memoir ‘The Rules Do Not Apply,’ Ariel Levy narrates her journey of building a non-traditional life marked by profound upheavals. Levy, a staff writer at The New Yorker, draws from her personal essays, including the award-winning ‘Thanksgiving in Mongolia,’ to depict themes of love, loss, and resilience.
This compelling narrative explores social and gender norms, addressing modern challenges faced by women today, making it both relatable and empowering.
5. ‘Difficult Women’ by Roxane Gay
Roxane Gay’s ‘Difficult Women’ is a collection of 21 stories portraying women from diverse backgrounds facing issues of sexuality, violence, and strength. Gay’s sharp, honest writing captures the complexity of modern women—sometimes gritty, other times fantastical—highlighting their power and vulnerability.
Gay, an award-winning author, is also known for her acclaimed essay collection ‘Bad Feminists’ and her novel ‘An Untamed State.’ Her stories challenge stereotypes and celebrate women’s multifaceted nature.
