In 1987, U.S. Congress declared that March would be Women’s History Month. This proclamation commemorates women’s contributions to the U.S. and acknowledges their remarkable accomplishments throughout its history in various fields.
In honor of Women’s History Month, I will be unpacking five memoirs written by women who sought to highlight the challenges they encountered as women and how they fought for their rights.
- “Becoming” by Michelle Obama
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The former First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, wrote a memoir titled “Becoming.” In this memoir, Obama divulges personal information about her experiences juggling family obligations, a demanding career, public image, and the challenges inherent in being the first African-American First Lady in American history.
Moreover, Obama shares her thoughts on major social issues such as race, gender, and inequality. As a Black woman who grew up on the South Side of Chicago, Obama reflects on how racism affected her life and the lives of those around her.
Furthermore, she discusses the challenges of navigating predominantly white spaces and the frustration of feeling like she constantly had to prove herself. Obama also emphasizes how racism is ingrained in American society and the importance of acknowledging and addressing systemic inequalities to create a more just and equitable country for all.
However, “Becoming” is not just a political memoir but a profoundly personal one, providing a glimpse into the life of one of the most inspiring women in the world. The book has been widely praised for its inspiring and empowering message and for Obama’s ability to connect with readers on a personal level.
- “I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban” by Malala Yousfzai and Christina Lamb
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Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist for education, and Christina Lamb, a British journalist, collaborated on the biography “I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban.” The book chronicles Yousafzai’s life and her fight in Pakistan’s Swat Valley for girls’ rights to equal educational opportunities.
At 11 years old, Malala began speaking out against the Taliban’s ban on girls’ education and soon became a prominent voice in the cause. In 2012, 15-year-old Malala Yousafzai was targeted and shot by the Taliban, but she survived and continued her activism.
The biography provides a glimpse into Yousafzai’s life and struggles, including her relationship with her family, recovery from the shooting, and journey to becoming the youngest Nobel Prize laureate at age 17 in 2014.
Yousafzai’s story inspires readers to take action and make a difference in their communities. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the power of activism and the importance of education for women worldwide.
- “My Beloved World” by Sonia Sotomayor
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Sonia Sotomayor, an Associate Judge of the United States Supreme Court, published her memoir “My Beloved World” in January 2013. Sotomayor imparts a unique and intimate view into her life, unraveling the journey from her early years in The Bronx to her appointment as a Supreme Court Justice.
The memoir demonstrates Sotomayor’s passion for learning and her tenacity in overcoming obstacles. Sotomayor provides a candid and motivating account of her life’s journey throughout the book, giving insight into the events that shaped her and the principles that guided her throughout her life and career.
“My Beloved World” is a testament to Sotomayor’s resilience, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. It inspires anyone who has faced adversity and sought to overcome hardships.
- “Madame Curie – A Biography” by Eve Curie
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Marie Curie, a pioneering chemist and physicist, was one of history’s most well-known and accomplished scientists. Eve Curie, daughter of Marie Curie, wrote the book “Madame Curie – A Biography,” a story that chronicles Marie’s history and achievements.
The biography covers Marie’s early life in Poland, education in France, and groundbreaking research in radioactivity, ultimately leading to her winning two Nobel Prizes, one in Physics and one in Chemistry.
The book also comprehensively examines Marie’s life, career, influence on the scientific world, and societal contributions. It also covers the difficulties and barriers she experienced as a woman in a predominately male sector, including prejudice and discrimination.
This biography is a must-read for anyone interested in the life and achievements of Marie Curie, as well as the history of science and the women’s rights movement.
- “Forward: A Memoir” by Abby Wambach
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The best-selling book “Forward: A Memoir” was written by former soccer player Abby Wambach. In this autobiography, Wambach details her rise to the top of the soccer world and her life off the field.
With candor and vulnerability, she recounts her struggles with addiction, broken marriage, and the stress of always competing at the top of her sport. Wambach sends readers a message of ingenuity and aspiration, urging them to develop their inner fortitude and courage in the face of hardship.
Moreover, Wambach uses “Forward: A Memoir” to delve into pressing issues facing women’s soccer and how sports can shape societal attitudes. She addresses the gender inequalities that persist in soccer and female athletes’ challenges as they strive for equal pay and recognition.
Through her experiences, Wambach advocates for the importance of creating more opportunities for women in sports and breaking down barriers that prevent them from reaching their full potential on and off the field.
What is your favorite female-written memoir? Let us know @HerCampusSJSU.