30 Books Every Woman Should Read Before Turning 30

30 Books Every Woman Should Read Before Turning 30 Turning 30 is a major milestone. Youve survived your twenties, have a better sense of your personal goals and have some solid work experience under your belt. But now youre ready to hit other milestones, like further establishing your personal brand and finding various ways to lead a more fulfilling life.Make sure to check out these 30 books before your 30th birthday so you have the inspiration and knowledge you need to live the life youve always dreamt of (and if you want to read them after 30, thats fine, too).1. by Angie Thomasprestige via AmazonThomas returns to the same neighborhood where her debut, The Hate U Give, is set. Its about a 16-year-old aspiring rapper trying to fill the shoes of her father, a successful rapper. She has to make it in music in order to survive and help her mother come out of poverty.2. ruf via AmazonA classic novel about women supporting other women? Sign us up The way Jo challenges societys expectatio ns of her is an inspiration to women everywhere.3. prestige via AmazonWhat is grit, anyway? Duckworth writes that it is a special combination of passion and perseverance that anyone can use to drive success. Any effort you make towards your goal ultimately counts twice, and Grit will show you why.4. by Margaret AtwoodImage via Barnes NobleYes, you can also watch the Emmy-nominated television adaptation on Hulu, but the books firsthand account of this dystopia hits close to home. Margaret Atwoods writing reminds us of the importance of female agency.5. Image via AmazonAdmit it who doesnt need to declutter their life every now and then? This step-by-step guide on how to declutter your home can be directly applied to your lifestyle, and it can help you determine your career goals.6. by Malcolm GladwellImage via AmazonIf you havent read this book yet, youve still no doubt heard the 10,000-hour rule that it takes 10,000 hours of practicing something the correct way to become a world-c lass expert. Whether you agree with it or not, the questions this book raises will make you think about your own habits.7. Image via AmazonEven though this book is just a few years old, its already a classic for women at work. Its chock full of inspiring stories of women leaders and how you can Lean In to join their ranks.8. Image via AmazonFor a totally different perspective on female empowerment, read Sophia Amorusos memoir and entrepreneurship guide hybrid. Its a great read for anyone who is testing out the waters of the business world, and its also incredibly entertaining.9. by Lois P. Frankel Image via AmazonIts sad, but true This book covers all of the subconscious ways that women accidentally sabotage themselves within the workplace and strategies they can use to eliminate these mistakes. Some of what this book addresses? Social media use, negotiating and multitasking.10. Image via AmazonThis is an essay collection that explores the question, What does it mean to be to live as, to existas a black woman today? Jerkin writes about sexuality, disability and body image as a black woman.11. by Alice WalkerImage via AmazonPerhaps one of the fruchtwein important books on this list the emotional weight of the story will stick with you forever. The contrasting narratives of Celie and Nettie highlight how women are oppressed in a multitude of ways, but also how we can thrive together.12. Image via AmazonFor when youre too distracted to remind yourself of how great you are, this book is here to do it for you.You Are A Badasswill teach you how to choose your goals and then reach them so you can create a life you love.13. Image via AmazonWhen was the last time you saw a book from an entrepreneur about how sleep and self-care can lead you to greater success? Arianna Huffingtons book will convince you that there is more to a successful life than just having the corner office and that that fulfillment starts with you.14. Image via AmazonAnother book by Nice Girls au thor Frankel, this one focuses on finding your natural leadership abilities and how to utilize them in whatever environment you choose.15. by Sallie KrawcheckImage via Sallie KrawcheckA Wall Street executive turned entrepreneur, Krawchecks book focuses on gaining the power to accomplish what you want at work, whether its pursuing a non-traditional career path or learning how to invest.16. by Chimamanda Ngozi AdichieImage via AmazonThis quick read is an essay adapted from Chimamanda Ngozi Adichies acclaimed TEDx talk. It provides an updated version of feminism for the 21st century and draws from her own experiences to explain why everyone (not just women) should be feminists.17. Image via AmazonSure, you might not be an economist, but that doesnt mean you should avoid this insightful book on how economics powers the world around us. By focusing on incentives and using real-world scenarios to explain the world, Levitt and Dubner will change the way you see everything.18. by Alison Bec hdelImage via AmazonThough you might recognize the name from its Tony-winning musical adaptation, you should recognize the author from a film criticism technique she invented the Bechdel test. Though that particular anecdote isnt depicted in this coming of age story, its a beautiful memoir of a beautiful feminist that highlights the bittersweet nature of life.19. by Shonda RhimesImage via AmazonWhat happens when one of the worlds best storytellers says yes to everything for a year? A lot. Thankfully, we can learn from Rhimes experiences through this entertaining book.20. Image via AmazonThis book explores the ways in which black women are scrutinized for expressing rage. Brittney Cooper argues that eloquently expressed grasplatz like that of Beyonc, Serena Williams and Michelle Obama can be a force for positive change.21. Image via AmazonYes, its a classic romance and suspense novel, but it also exemplifies how to persevere in times of great distress. In her own way, Jane Eyre is a survivor and her journey to independence will inspire you.22. Image via AmazonDavid Foster Wallaces famous commencement speech is perfect for an afternoon read. It asks (and answers) the question of how one can live a fulfilling life with compassion with Wallaces trademark humor and practicality.23. by Anne FrankImage via AmazonThis personal account of one of the most trying times in history is a devastating but eye-opening read. Its worth revisiting once youve hit adulthood to remind yourself of the importance in understanding different perspectives.24. Image via Amazon Personal connections are important to getting ahead in life, and the business lunch is an easy way to network and make lasting relationships. Youll be surprised at how just reaching out to people (even if they say no) makes a distinct impression.25. Image via Penguin Random HouseThis beloved novel is one of the most popular English novels ever written. Aside from providing incredible insight of men and womens role s in society, Pride and Prejudicemakes some important points about expectations, reality and the relationships that serve as the foundation of both.26. Image via AmazonThis book is a crucial reminder that even the littlest actions make a difference its just a matter of having those actions lead up to the tipping point, the moment where they cross the threshold and become something bigger.27. Image via AmazonOnce you find yourself in a leadership position, its important stay true to yourself once youre there. Grant writes about how leaders can balance the challenge of improving the world while also originating new and potentially risky ideas. Theres a way that it can be done, but youll need to reject conformity along the way.28. by Rupi KaurImage via AmazonA must-read poetry collection, Rupi Kaurs work is about healing and hope. When youre struggling to move forward, turn to this book to help you self-reflect and to feel enlightened.29. by Judy BlumeImage via Barnes NobleThis YA nov el is a quintessential story about growing up and discovering who you are. While it will resonate with you when youre 12 (a.k.a. Margarets age), the themes of self-discovery will continue to resonate during adulthood.30. Image via AmazonThis book explores young women with serious illnesses, who an overlooked bevlkerung in American society. It weaves together patient interviews, research on gender and illness and the authors own harrowing medical history to show just how much sexism prevails in the medical world.--