15 of the Most Inspirational Books For Women, Because 2018 Has Been a Year

If you haven't read Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand in the Sun, and Be Your Own Person by Shonda Rhimes ($4, originally $17), what are you waiting for? This is a powerful yet engageing read about positivity and getting out of your own way, from the creator of Grey's Anatomy and Scandal.

Legendary Ladies: 50 Goddesses to Empower and Inspire You by Ann Shen ($20) is such a great book to display on your coffee table. Flip through it to be inspired.

Dear Madam President: An Open Letter to the Women Who Will Run the World by Jennifer Palmieri ($20) is a hopeful, promising letter to whoever will become the first female president.

If you're looking for a call to action, pick up Dear Ijeawele, or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions By Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie ($9). The author was asked how to inspire feminism in a reader's young daughter, and this is her response.

The New York Times Bestseller, Girl, Wash Your Face: Stop Believing the Lies About Who You Are So You Can Become Who You Were Meant to Be by Rachel Hollis ($23) is full of honesty, relatable scenarios, and Hollis's signature motivational words. Fans of her podcasts or other books will love this one.

Almost every young woman I know has read Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling ($13, originally $16), and for good reason. It's no secret Kaling is hilarious, but she's also whip smart, tenacious, and ambitious. Any working girl will feel inspired to conquer the career ladder after reading this book.

First, watch Brené Brown's famous TED talk (it has 8 million views and counting) on the power of vulnerability. Then, read The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brené Brown ($10, originally $15). She is a relatable, lovable research professor who talks openly and honestly about shame, and she's got Oprah's seal of approval.

I actually read The Art of Happiness, 10th Anniversary Edition: A Handbook for Living by the Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler ($21, originally $27), and couldn't believe how simple and actionable the concepts were. It's a must read for literally anyone.

Prepare to be empowered. In the Company of Women: Inspiration and Advice From Over 100 Makers, Artists, and Entrepreneurs by Grace Bonney ($25, originally $35) is such a cool compilation of badass women.

One of the most anticipated releases of the year, Becoming by Michelle Obama ($20, originally $33) discusses everything from politics to miscarriages, and we can't wait to pick it up and fall even more in love with the former first lady.

Get productive and proactive with How to Get Sh*t Done: Why Women Need to Stop Doing Everything So They Can Achieve Anything by Erin Falconer ($23, originally $26).

The ultimate in inspiring literature, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho ($13, originally $17) is a story, above all else, of self-discovery. It is beloved by countless inspiring people, and will leave you with an entirely new perspective. Don't sleep on this one.

Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik ($21, originally $26) tells us the story of one of the most badass females around. We dare you not to be inspired by this boundary pushing Supreme Court queen.

A book of inspiring quotes from Queen Bey is a necessity for everyone. The Liberté Egalité Beyoncé Book and Poster Gift Set ($17) is a stand-out pick.

Boost your confidence and know your worth with You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero ($16).