Written by: Elle Eyestone
The She's the First team believes that women-centered media is an important tool that can be used to showcase the power of femininity and the strength of female relationships. To kick off 2023, we have compiled a list of our favorite women-centered books, movies, podcasts, and TV shows. We hope that our picks make you feel just as inspired as they do us. Enjoy!
Books
I Am Malala - Malala Yousafazi
I Am Malala is an autobiography that tells the story of Malala Yousafzi's life as she grew up in Pakistan and resisted Taliban rule. She writes of her struggle for girls' rights to education, her recovery from a deadly gunshot wound, and why she chose to promote peace rather than revenge. Malala's courage is inspiring and her story is gutwrenching - this is a poignant and important read.
I Am Malala is available to rent at the McGill University Library.
Pride and Prejudice
What is not to love about a powerful female lead? Pride and Prejudice, written by Jane Austen, is a classic novel that tells the story of the daring and vivacious Elizabeth Bennet. As Lizzy gets older, her mother pressures her to marry. However, she can't seem to keep away from the proud, rude, and very wealthy Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth Bennet is ahead of her time - she is witty, opinionated, and resolute. This is a classic for a reason, and we highly recommend it.
Pride and Prejudice is available to rent at numerous libraries in Montreal.
If you are not up for the read, you could also watch one of the many movie or TV show adaptations.
Women Don't Owe You Pretty
Florence Given's debut book Women Don't Owe You Pretty serves as an entry into feminism. Given details how the male gaze shapes female identity, how women's view of themselves affects their dating lives, and how women can fight against the toxic structures created by our patriarchal society. Women Don't Owe You Pretty provides a guide to exploring feminism on your own terms.
Women Don't Owe You Pretty is available for rent at the McGill University Library.
Becoming
Michelle Obama's Becoming is a wise, honest memoir that chronicles life experiences that led her to become the first African American First Lady of the United States. She discusses her advocacy for women and girls around the world, her struggle to be a woman in power, and how she was able to balance being a businesswoman and a mother. Michelle Obama's story is inspiring, and her memoir is well worth the read.
Becoming is available to rent at the McGill University Library.
Movies
Little Women (2019)
Little Women tells the story of four girls as they grow up in 19th-century Massachusetts. It is a wholesome tale full of healthy and complex female relationships. You may have read the infamous book by Louisa May Alcott, or you may have seen one of the many other movie adaptations of this classic; while the other versions of this story are great in their own respect, the incredible portrayals given by this star-studded cast are what got this version on our list.
You can stream Little Women (2019) on Netflix now.
RBG
RBG is a biographical depiction of US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bater Ginsburg's life. The film won the Cinema for Peace Award for Women's Empowerment in 2019 - and for good reason. Ruth Bater Ginsburg was an iconic, trail-blazing feminist, and this film does an excellent job of honoring her memory.
RBG is available to stream on Amazon Prive Video with a subscription.
Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures is an inspiring movie that tells the true stories of three brilliant women - Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson - as they work to launch an astronaut into orbit. This film gives credit where credit is due; it highlights the women's determination, cleverness, and intelligence all while portraying healthy female friendships. It is a must-watch.
You can stream Hidden Figures now on Disney+.
Thelma and Louise
Thelma and Louise tells the story of two women whose fishing trip turns into a mad dash to Mexico as the pair attempt to evade the law. Despite the heavy topics covered, the film remains light and funny. The excellent performances given by both lead actresses, Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis, earned them each a nomination for Best Actress at the Oscars. This is a landmark feminist film, and a favorite of many still.
You can watch Thelma and Louise now on Prime Video.
Podcasts
Call Your Girlfriend
"Call Your Girlfriend" was a fun podcast that features conversations between two friends, Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman. The two discussed pop culture, politics, and inspiring female creators. The podcast aimed to honor every woman's lived experiences, particularly those of us who are "everyday" women. While the podcast sadly ended in February 2022, their old episodes are still worth a listen.
You can listen to "Call Your Girlfriend" now on Apple Music, Spotify, and More.
Vulgar History
"Vulgar History," hosted by Ann Foster, is a witty, funny, and engaging podcast that tells the stories of women throughout (mostly) European history. Each season revolves around a theme, with each episode focusing on a particular woman. Foster pokes fun at the customs of the time, critiques commonly praised male figures, and highlights the scandalous details of these women's lives. She often picks forgotten women that actually had big impacts on history. We highly recommend it if you are interested in history, feminism, or just want a laugh.
You can listen to "Vulgar History" on Spotify and Apple Music, or learn more on the website: https://vulgarhistory.com/
TV Shows
Fleabag
Fleabag is a hilariously witty TV show that centers around a woman struggling to cope with a recent tragedy while navigating love and life. Phoebe Waller-Bridge outdid herself with this show - not only did she star as the titular character, Fleabag, but she also wrote and produced both seasons. If nothing else, this show is worth the watch solely for Kristin Scott Thomas' monologue on women's pain.
You can stream Fleabag now on Prime Video.
If you want to skip a step and watch the monologue now, follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlmCvMRIZqw&ab_channel=29films
Queen's Gambit
If you have not yet seen The Queen's Gambit, you are missing out. This show follows the brilliant and complex chess prodigy, Beth Harmon, as she struggles to become the greatest chess player in the world. If I could watch this show again for the first time, I would do so in a heartbeat.
You can stream The Queen's Gambit now on Netflix.
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