The Greatest "Political" Books of All Time Written by Women

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This collection epitomizes the pinnacle of literature authored by women, aggregating selections from 305 'best of' book lists into a definitive guide to the most acclaimed works by female writers. This aggregation reflects a comprehensive evaluation of literary achievements, offering a rich tapestry of perspectives and voices. For a deeper understanding of our selection methodology and the rigorous criteria behind these rankings, please visit our rankings page.

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Political

The "Political" category of books encompasses works that explore the theory, practice, and history of government and politics. These books may cover topics such as political ideologies, political systems, political institutions, political movements, and political leaders. They may also examine the relationship between politics and other areas of society, such as economics, culture, and international relations. Political books can be both informative and thought-provoking, offering readers insights into the complexities of the political world and the challenges of governing in a democratic society.

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  1. 51. The Burden of Our Time by Hannah Arendt

    "The Burden of Our Time" is a profound exploration of totalitarianism and the nature of power. The author delves into the rise of authoritarian regimes in the 20th century, particularly focusing on the Nazi and Stalinist systems. The book examines the socio-political conditions that enable such regimes to seize power, and the mechanisms they use to maintain control. It also presents a philosophical analysis of the human condition, exploring themes of freedom, authority, and the public and private realms of life.

    The 3671st Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 52. Lost Children Archive by Valeria Luiselli

    "Lost Children Archive" by Valeria Luiselli is a novel that follows a family on a road trip from New York to Arizona. The parents are documentarians and are working on separate projects, while the children are preoccupied with their own interests. As they travel, the family becomes increasingly aware of the migrant crisis and the children's obsession with finding lost things takes on a new meaning. The novel explores themes of family, identity, and the power of storytelling.

    The 3719th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 53. Voices from Chernobyl by Svetlana Alexievich

    This book is a haunting collection of personal accounts about the nuclear disaster at Chernobyl in 1986. The author has meticulously gathered and woven together interviews from survivors, including former workers of the plant, residents, and soldiers. Each narrative reveals the physical and psychological impact of the disaster on individual lives, creating a deeply moving oral history of an event that has had profound consequences on the people of Belarus and Ukraine.

    The 3750th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 54. The Black Brothers by Lisa Tetzner

    "The Black Brothers" is a captivating historical novel set in 19th-century Switzerland. It tells the story of four brothers, who, due to unfortunate circumstances, are forced to work as chimney sweeps. Through their perseverance and unity, they navigate the harsh realities of their profession and form a strong bond with each other. The book explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the fight for justice, making it a compelling and heartwarming read.

    The 3794th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 55. Praying for Sheetrock by Melissa Fay Greene

    "Praying for Sheetrock" is a non-fiction narrative that tells the story of racial tension and civil rights struggles in a small coastal town in Georgia during the 1970s. It focuses on the experiences of the African American community who, led by a charismatic shrimp boat worker, stand up against the corruption and racial discrimination perpetrated by the town's white sheriff and his deputies. The book provides an intimate portrayal of the town's residents, their hardships, and their fight for justice and equality.

    The 4110th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 56. The Beauty Myth by Naomi Wolf

    The book is a groundbreaking work that explores how images of beauty are used against women, impacting them psychologically and socially. It critically examines the beauty industry and the societal pressures on women to conform to certain standards of appearance. The author argues that the obsession with physical perfection traps the modern woman in an endless cycle of hope, self-consciousness, and self-hatred as she tries to fulfill society's impossible definition of the flawless beauty.

    The 4368th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 57. Die Swerdjare Van Poppie Nongena by Elsa Joubert

    "Die Swerdjare Van Poppie Nongena" is a powerful and poignant novel that tells the story of Poppie, a black South African woman, during the apartheid era. Set in the 1960s, Poppie faces immense challenges as she navigates the oppressive system that separates her from her family and forces her to endure constant discrimination and hardship. Through Poppie's experiences, the book explores themes of resilience, love, and the human spirit's ability to triumph in the face of adversity.

    The 4394th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 58. We Tell Ourselves Stories in Order to Live: Collected Nonfiction by Joan Didion

    This book is a compilation of seven works of nonfiction that explore the themes of American culture, politics, and landscape. The author's sharp observational skills and distinctive narrative voice provide insightful commentary on a range of topics, from the counterculture of the 1960s to the breakdown of the nuclear family. Her essays are deeply personal, often reflecting on her own experiences and emotions, while also offering a broader critique of society. The collection is a testament to the power of storytelling, both in shaping our understanding of the world and in helping us navigate through life.

    The 4536th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 59. Yours In Struggle by Barbara Smith, Minnie Bruce Pratt, Elly Bulkin

    "Yours In Struggle" is a collection of essays that delve into the complexities of building alliances across racial, sexual, and class divides within the feminist movement. The three authors, each from different backgrounds, share their personal experiences and insights on the challenges and necessities of intersectional solidarity. They explore themes of identity, oppression, and activism, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting differences while working towards a common goal of equality and social justice. The book serves as a call to action for feminists to engage in self-critical reflection and to commit to an inclusive and diverse movement that addresses the interconnected nature of various forms of discrimination.

    The 4588th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 60. Fire in the Lake by Frances FitzGerald

    This book is an in-depth analysis of the Vietnam War from the perspective of the Vietnamese people and culture. The author explores the historical, cultural, and social factors that contributed to the conflict, providing a comprehensive understanding of the war beyond the American involvement. It delves into the roots of Vietnamese nationalism, the impact of French colonialism, and the ideological differences between North and South Vietnam, giving the reader a nuanced view of this complex period in history.

    The 4699th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 61. The House Of Splendid Isolation by Edna O'Brien

    The book tells the story of an old woman living in isolation in a grand but dilapidated house in rural Ireland. Her quiet life is disrupted when a fugitive on the run from the law invades her home. As she's forced to coexist with him, she begins to reflect on her own past and the history of the Irish people, leading to a complex exploration of themes such as loneliness, regret, and the struggle for national identity.

    The 4738th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 62. Ella Baker And The Black Freedom Movement by Barbara Ransby

    This book is a comprehensive biography that chronicles the life and influence of a prominent civil rights activist who played a pivotal role in some of the most influential organizations of her time, including the NAACP, Martin Luther King Jr.'s Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. It delves into her commitment to grassroots organizing and participatory democracy, showcasing her belief in the power of the people to instigate social change. The narrative highlights her behind-the-scenes work, her emphasis on collective leadership, and her dedication to fighting racial and economic injustice, making a strong case for her as one of the most important, yet often overlooked, leaders of the civil rights movement.

    The 4835th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 63. Women, Culture & Politics by Angela Davis

    In "Women, Culture & Politics," the author, a prominent activist and scholar, presents a collection of speeches and essays that delve into the intersections of gender, race, and class within the context of social justice movements. The book explores the role of women in cultural and political spheres, advocating for the empowerment of marginalized communities through solidarity and activism. It addresses issues such as reproductive rights, the prison-industrial complex, and the impact of racism and sexism on women of color, offering critical insights into the struggles and contributions of women in shaping a more equitable society.

    The 4842nd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 64. As If I Am Not There by Slavenka Drakulic

    The book is a harrowing tale of a young woman's survival in a Balkan concentration camp during the Bosnian War. The protagonist, a school teacher, is taken from her village and forced into sexual slavery by the enemy soldiers. It's a stark exploration of the brutalities of war, the dehumanization of individuals, and the resilience of the human spirit. The narrative is a poignant commentary on the horrors of war and the resilience of women in the face of unimaginable atrocities.

    The 4849th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 65. Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie

    "Home Fire" is a contemporary reimagining of Sophocles' Antigone set against the backdrop of modern-day London and Syria. The novel explores the lives of five characters caught in a complex web of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. The story revolves around two British-Pakistani families, each struggling with their own dilemmas related to identity, radicalism, and loyalty. One family is headed by a powerful politician who disowns his jihadist son, while the other consists of three orphaned siblings whose lives are turned upside down when their brother is accused of joining ISIS. The novel explores the consequences of their actions, questioning the extent to which one can go for love and loyalty.

    The 4854th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 66. The Red Record by Ida B. Wells

    The book in question is a pioneering work of investigative journalism and a searing indictment of lynching in the post-Civil War United States. The author, a prominent African American journalist and activist, meticulously documents the horrific practice of lynching, providing detailed accounts of specific incidents and statistical analysis to debunk the common justifications for such violence. The work exposes the systemic racism and injustice that African Americans faced, and it was instrumental in raising public awareness and galvanizing anti-lynching activism. The author's bravery in confronting this issue head-on, despite threats to her own life, underscores the book's importance as a historical document and a testament to the struggle for civil rights.

    The 4933rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 67. Dumba Nengue, Run For Your Life by Lina Magaia

    The book is a harrowing account of the Mozambican people's suffering during the civil war that followed the country's independence from Portugal. It compiles testimonies and personal stories that reveal the atrocities committed by the Renamo guerrillas, who were backed by foreign powers. Through the eyes of the survivors, the narrative exposes the brutalities of war, including the destruction of villages, the murder of innocent civilians, and the resilience of those who were forced to flee their homes. The work serves as both a poignant reminder of the cost of conflict and a tribute to the spirit of the Mozambican people who endured and survived amidst such terror.

    The 4986th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 68. A Small Place by Jamaica Kincaid

    This book offers a poignant and provocative look into the complexities of colonialism and its enduring impact on a Caribbean island. Through a blend of personal reflection and social commentary, the narrative delves into the island's history, the exploitation by colonial powers, and the tourism industry's role in perpetuating economic disparities and cultural erosion. The author's incisive prose challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable realities of a postcolonial world, where the beauty of the landscape contrasts sharply with the lives of its native inhabitants, who continue to grapple with the legacies of oppression and cultural identity.

    The 4986th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 69. The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism by Naomi Klein

    This book explores the concept of "disaster capitalism", the idea that global capitalism thrives on disaster and chaos. The author argues that free market policies are often pushed through while countries are reeling from wars, natural disasters, or economic crises. She provides a historical analysis of these events, from Chile in the 1970s, to Russia in the 1990s, to the war in Iraq, demonstrating how governments and corporations exploit these periods of shock to implement economic reforms that would otherwise be rejected.

    The 5017th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 70. Meridian by Alice Walker

    The novel explores the life of a young African American woman in the 1960s and 1970s as she navigates the civil rights movement in the South. Through her journey, she grapples with the complexities of social change, personal sacrifice, and the struggle for racial equality. The protagonist's commitment to activism leads her to confront her own past traumas and the toll that relentless activism can take on one's personal life. As she evolves, she embodies the resilience and transformation that parallel the tumultuous era she is a part of, ultimately seeking a path that harmonizes her own well-being with her dedication to social justice.

    The 5097th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 71. Exile In The Promised Land: A Memoir by Marcia Freedman

    This memoir recounts the journey of a feminist activist who emigrated from the United States to Israel in the 1960s, seeking to be part of the Zionist dream. The narrative delves into her political and personal life, detailing her experiences as one of the first women to serve in the Israeli Knesset, her advocacy for women's and LGBTQ rights, and her eventual disillusionment with the realities of Israeli politics and society. The book offers a candid look at the complexities of Israeli life, the challenges of immigration and identity, and the struggle to reconcile idealism with the often harsh political and social landscape of the Promised Land.

    The 5123rd Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 72. Black Feminist Thought by Patricia Hill Collins

    The book presents a comprehensive examination of Black feminist thought and its importance in challenging historical and contemporary forms of oppression. It explores the intersectionality of race, gender, and class, and how these interconnected systems of power impact the lives of Black women. The author delves into the contributions of Black feminist intellectuals and activists, highlighting the unique perspectives and resilience of Black women. Through a critical analysis of literature, music, and other cultural expressions, the book argues for the recognition of Black feminist thought as a legitimate and vital intellectual tradition that offers valuable insights into the struggle for social justice and equality.

    The 5123rd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 73. Rebellion: Essays 1980 1991 by Minnie Bruce Pratt

    "Rebellion: Essays 1980-1991" is a collection of thought-provoking essays that delve into the personal and political realms of the author's life as a feminist, activist, and lesbian. Throughout the book, the author reflects on the intersection of her identity with the broader social movements of the time, exploring themes of gender, sexuality, race, and class. Her writing is both intimate and analytical, offering insights into the struggles for social justice and the complexities of living on the margins of mainstream society. The essays serve as a powerful testament to the author's journey of self-discovery and her commitment to challenging oppressive systems.

    The 5192nd Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 74. How We Survived Communism & Even Laughed by Slavenka Drakulic

    This book is a poignant and insightful collection of essays that delve into the everyday lives of women under communist regimes in Eastern Europe. Through personal narratives and observations, the author explores the harsh realities and small acts of resistance that characterized life behind the Iron Curtain. From the scarcity of basic necessities to the suppression of individual freedoms, the book reveals the resilience and ingenuity of women who navigated a world of political oppression, economic hardship, and social conformity, often finding ways to inject humor and hope into their struggle for survival and dignity.

    The 5192nd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 75. Address Unknown by Kathrine Kressmann Taylor

    The book is a poignant epistolary novella that explores the breakdown of a friendship between two business partners, an American Jew and a German gentile, during the rise of the Nazi regime. Through a series of letters, the narrative reveals the chilling transformation of the German friend, who initially disdains Hitler's ideology, but gradually succumbs to the propaganda and becomes an ardent supporter of the regime. The American, whose family in Germany suffers under the growing anti-Semitic laws, devises a clever yet tragic plan to open his friend's eyes to the horrors of the Nazi regime, culminating in a powerful and ironic conclusion that underscores the personal cost of ignorance and the devastating impact of political and social upheaval.

    The 5243rd Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download