Top 5 Female-Centered Books of 2017

This article highlights five influential books by female authors from 2017, showcasing diverse stories ranging from family sagas and historical thrillers to memoirs and short story collections. These titles reflect women’s voices, resilience, and societal themes, making them essential reads for anyone interested in contemporary literature and female perspectives.

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In 2017, women authors significantly shaped the literary landscape with a wide array of compelling works. These books, spanning novels, memoirs, and short stories, showcased diverse female voices and perspectives, resonating deeply with readers. Highlighting the year's standout titles, this list features both emerging talents and seasoned writers who delivered memorable stories and profound themes.

1. ‘Sing, Unburied, Sing’ by Jesmyn Ward

Jesmyn Ward’s 'Sing, Unburied, Sing' presents an intense family saga set in Mississippi. The novel explores African-American familial bonds, hope, and resilience, blending lyrical storytelling with historical insights. It received the National Book Award, was named Time’s Best Novel, and ranked on the NYT Top 10 in 2017. Ward, a Mississippi native born in 1977, has garnered critical acclaim, including the 2011 National Book Award for her debut.

2. ‘Manhattan Beach’ by Jennifer Egan

Jennifer Egan, Pulitzer Prize-winning author, offers a WWII-era Brooklyn tale in ‘Manhattan Beach.’ The story follows Anna Kerrigan’s desire to become a diver amid her mob-connected family’s secrets. Set against the wartime backdrop, the novel unveiling themes of loyalty, betrayal, and resilience immerses readers in Brooklyn’s historical atmosphere.

3. ‘Anything is Possible’ by Elizabeth Strout

Elizabeth Strout’s ‘Anything is Possible’ is a linked collection of stories centered on human connection and personal evolution. Known for ‘Olive Kitteridge,’ Strout explores themes of identity, hope, and inner strength through richly developed characters navigating societal and emotional challenges.

4. ‘The Rules Do Not Apply’ by Ariel Levy

Ariel Levy’s memoir, ‘The Rules Do Not Apply,’ details her journey into an unconventional life filled with upheaval. As a staff writer at The New Yorker, Levy shares personal essays, including ‘Thanksgiving in Mongolia,’ illustrating themes of love, loss, and resilience. The book addresses contemporary social and gender issues, inspiring empowerment and reflection.

5. ‘Difficult Women’ by Roxane Gay

In ‘Difficult Women,’ Roxane Gay crafts 21 stories depicting women from various backgrounds confronting sexuality, violence, and strength. Her candid and incisive writing captures the multi-layered reality of modern women—sometimes gritty, sometimes fantastical—and emphasizes their power and vulnerability. Gay, known for her ‘Bad Feminists’ collection and ‘An Untamed State,’ challenges stereotypes and celebrates women’s complexity.