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

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As a woman in 2018, every day can feel like a battle, so there's always room for a little inspiration. Reading powerful, meaningful words helps us get through our days stronger than ever, and we'll take any extra boost of confidence we can get. If you're looking to be reminded of your own worth, or trying to find a cool, thoughtful gift for a special woman in your life, you've got to check out these books. They'll have you raising your fists in solidarity.

Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand in the Sun, and Be Your Own Person by Shonda Rhimes
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Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand in the Sun, and Be Your Own Person by Shonda Rhimes

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 engaging 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
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Legendary Ladies: 50 Goddesses to Empower and Inspire You by Ann Shen

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
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Dear Madam President: An Open Letter to the Women Who Will Run the World by Jennifer Palmieri

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.

Dear Ijeawele, or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions By Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
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Dear Ijeawele, or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions By Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

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.

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
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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

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.

Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling
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Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling

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.

The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brené Brown
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The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brené Brown

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.

The Art of Happiness, 10th Anniversary Edition: A Handbook for Living by the Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler
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The Art of Happiness, 10th Anniversary Edition: A Handbook for Living by the Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler

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.

In the Company of Women: Inspiration and Advice From Over 100 Makers, Artists, and Entrepreneurs by Grace Bonney
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In the Company of Women: Inspiration and Advice From Over 100 Makers, Artists, and Entrepreneurs by Grace Bonney

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.

Becoming by Michelle Obama
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Becoming by Michelle Obama

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.

How to Get Sh*t Done: Why Women Need to Stop Doing Everything So They Can Achieve Anything by Erin Falconer
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How to Get Sh*t Done: Why Women Need to Stop Doing Everything So They Can Achieve Anything by Erin Falconer

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
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The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

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
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Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik

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.

You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
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You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero

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