Progressive feminism is an evolving movement that seeks to challenge and dismantle deeply ingrained societal norms that limit women’s autonomy, equality, and self-expression. It goes beyond advocating for legal rights and representation, delving into the subtle, everyday ways in which gender expectations shape our choices, opportunities, and sense of self. Rather than adhering to a singular definition of what it means to be a woman, progressive feminism encourages critical thinking, inclusivity, and the freedom to define one’s own path.

These books focus on everyday women and how they can rethink ingrained beliefs and societal conditioning. We highlight books that challenge traditional narratives about femininity, relationships, work, and self-worth while offering practical empowerment.

Personal Reflection on You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero 

Reading You Are a Badass during a tumultuous period in my life, particularly amidst relationship challenges, was transformative. The empowering messages resonated deeply, offering solace and motivation when I needed it most. I found myself revisiting its pages, even seeking out free versions online when I wasn’t with the book to recapture the strength it provided. 

Books penned by women often carry an authenticity that mirrors our own experiences, offering a glimpse into the wisdom our future selves might impart. That being said, my grandfather, despite his traditional background, was the biggest feminist I knew. He championed my sisters and me, viewing our femininity as a superpower and instilling in us the belief that no barriers could hinder our success. Perhaps his respect stemmed from witnessing the resilience of women during wartime, or maybe he was innately a brilliant human like that. 

1. Invisible Women: Exposing Data Bias in a World Designed for Men – Caroline Criado Perez

This eye-opening book reveals how the world is built around male-default thinking, from medical research to workplace policies. Through compelling statistics and case studies, Perez exposes the consequences of gender data gaps and how they impact women’s safety, health, and daily lives. It’s a must-read for understanding the structural inequalities woven into society.

2. The Authority Gap – Mary Ann Sieghart

Sieghart explores why women’s expertise is often doubted and their authority undermined, even when they are equally or more qualified than men. Through research and interviews with high-profile women, she highlights the subtle and overt biases that hold women back and offers strategies to change them. This book is an empowering call to recognize and challenge the authority gap in workplaces, politics, and everyday life.

3. You Are a Badass – Jen Sincero

With humor and tough love, Sincero delivers a no-nonsense guide to breaking through self-doubt and living unapologetically. She combines motivational insights with practical exercises to help readers overcome limiting beliefs and take control of their lives. Perfect for anyone who needs a push to stop playing small and start embracing their full potential.

4. Quit Like a Woman – Holly Whitaker

A powerful examination of alcohol culture, particularly how it’s marketed to women as self-care and empowerment. Whitaker dismantles the idea that drinking is a necessity for socializing and relaxation, offering an alternative path to autonomy and self-respect. This book isn’t just about quitting alcohol—it’s about reclaiming control over your choices and recognizing societal conditioning.

5. Everything I Know About Love – Dolly Alderton

This memoir explores the highs and lows of love in all its forms—romantic, platonic, and self-love. Alderton’s witty and heartfelt storytelling takes readers through her journey of navigating friendships, heartbreaks, and personal growth. It’s a relatable and nostalgic read, reminding women of the power of friendships and self-discovery.

6. Women & Power: A Manifesto – Mary Beard

This concise yet powerful book examines how women have been historically silenced in public life, drawing connections between ancient misogyny and modern struggles. Beard challenges the ways power is perceived as inherently male and argues for a redefinition of leadership that includes women. A thought-provoking read for those interested in the intersection of history and feminism.

7. Women Don’t Owe You Pretty – Florence Given

A bold and accessible introduction to modern feminism, challenging internalized misogyny, toxic relationships, and unrealistic beauty standards. Given encourages women to embrace self-worth, set boundaries, and reject societal expectations. With its vibrant design and straightforward message, this book is an empowering read for women at any stage of their feminist journey.

8. All the Single Ladies – Rebecca Traister

Traister explores how the rise of single women is reshaping politics, the economy, and culture. With historical context and personal stories, she highlights the growing power of independent women and the societal shifts they are driving. This book is an inspiring look at how singlehood can be a source of strength and transformation.

Personal Reflection on Women Don’t Owe You Pretty by Florence Given 

I read Women Don’t Owe You Pretty while dating someone who, on reflection, was probably an ‘anti-feminist’, the kind of person who outwardly claims to support feminism but, deep down, resists its core principles. I remember defending the idea that women can have underarm hair and having this intuition that it was really him who should be reading this book.

What I loved about this book was its straight-talking, no-nonsense approach to topics that should be discussed more openly and without shame. I found myself sharing pages with friends, wanting to impart all the wisdom I was reading onto the people around me.

This book is a brilliant first read for anyone unsure where to start with feminism, or simply for those who want a dose of unapologetic girl power.