Your Summer Reading List: Inspiring Books by Women Leaders
Summer is the perfect time to reset, recharge, and realign your goals, and what better way to do that than by diving into a stack of powerful, perspective-shifting books? Whether you’re relaxing on a beach, enjoying a quiet morning before a busy day, or winding down after work, a good book can spark inspiration, insight, and fresh motivation. This season, we’ve curated a summer reading list featuring some of the most inspiring books by women leaders, entrepreneurs, change-makers, and creatives. Each of these titles offers something unique: wisdom, strategy, vulnerability, and vision, all told from the lens of remarkable women who’ve blazed their trail.
"Becoming" by Michelle Obama
No list of inspiring books by women would be complete without “Becoming”. In this intimate and deeply honest memoir, former First Lady Michelle Obama shares the story of her life, from her upbringing in the South Side of Chicago to her years in the White House. With grace and courage, she opens up about identity, motherhood, leadership, and public life. It’s a story of self-discovery that speaks to women at every stage of their journey. Reading it feels like sitting down for a heartfelt conversation with a wise friend.
"Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead" by Sheryl Sandberg
Still a classic for working women and aspiring leaders, Sheryl Sandberg’s “Lean In” explores what it means to step up, find your voice, and lead with confidence. As the former COO of Facebook, Sandberg shares personal anecdotes and hard truths about gender dynamics in the workplace, encouraging women to push past fear and self-doubt. It’s a motivational call-to-action to sit at the table and own your worth, especially relevant for any woman navigating professional spaces.
"Daring Greatly" by Brené Brown
If you’ve ever struggled with perfectionism, fear of failure, or vulnerability in leadership, this book will speak directly to your heart. “Daring Greatly” explores how the courage to be vulnerable can transform the way we live, love, parent, and lead. Brené Brown is a research professor and storyteller, and her words are both empowering and actionable. It’s not just about leading boldly, it’s about leading authentically, a message that resonates in both business and personal life.
“Bossypants" by Tina Fey
Need a laugh and a reminder not to take yourself too seriously? “Bossypants” by comedian and writer Tina Fey is the perfect summer read. This witty memoir takes you behind the scenes of her career in comedy, her rise through male-dominated spaces, and the lessons she learned about confidence and staying true to herself. It's humorous, sharp, and sneakily full of wisdom. For women juggling ambition and humor in high-pressure industries, Fey’s reflections are both relatable and empowering.
"More Than Enough" by Elaine Welteroth
Elaine Welteroth, former Editor-in-Chief of Teen Vogue, shares her journey as a trailblazer in media and culture. “More Than Enough” is part memoir, part manifesto, a coming-of-age story, and a rallying cry for anyone who’s ever felt like they had to shrink themselves to succeed. With themes of identity, race, and empowerment, Welteroth’s story is both personal and powerful. Her message is clear: You are more than enough, just as you are.
"Untamed" by Glennon Doyle
A runaway bestseller and cultural phenomenon, “Untamed” is a call to break free from society’s expectations and follow your inner knowing. Glennon Doyle chronicles how she stopped living for others and started living for herself. With themes of motherhood, reinvention, truth, and freedom, this book will inspire you to reflect on your own life and ask: Who was I before the world told me who to be? It’s the ultimate beach read for any woman ready to unleash her true self.
"Year of Yes" by Shonda Rhimes
Imagine saying “yes” to everything that scares you for an entire year. That’s what television powerhouse Shonda Rhimes, creator of Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and Bridgerton, did. “Year of Yes” is the story of how that commitment transformed her life. With vulnerability and humor, Rhimes shares how stepping into fear led to personal growth, deeper relationships, and unexpected opportunities. It’s a fun, fast read that packs in life lessons on courage, boundaries, and joy.
"Radical Candor" by Kim Scott
Leadership is more than being liked or being tough; it’s about caring personally while challenging directly. That’s the philosophy behind “Radical Candor”, a must-read for any woman leading a team or building a business. Kim Scott, a former executive at Google and Apple, offers a clear framework for how to give feedback, foster healthy communication, and create strong work cultures. It’s a practical guidebook that will leave you feeling more confident and equipped to lead with clarity and compassion.
"Big Magic" by Elizabeth Gilbert
Whether you consider yourself creative or not, “Big Magic” will ignite your imagination and courage. Elizabeth Gilbert, best known for Eat Pray Love, explores the mysterious nature of inspiration and the creative process. With warmth and wonder, she invites readers to pursue curiosity over fear and to make space for creativity in everyday life. This book is like a gentle nudge to try something new this summer, start writing, painting, speaking, or dreaming a little bigger.
"The Light We Carry" by Michelle Obama
A follow-up to “Becoming”, this newer book by Michelle Obama is all about resilience, hope, and finding strength during uncertain times. “The Light We Carry” offers practical advice, personal reflections, and stories about overcoming fear and staying grounded. It's a reassuring read for anyone facing change, doubt, or transition, and a reminder that each of us carries our unique light, especially in times of darkness.
As you move through this summer, balancing rest and ambition, stillness and momentum, let these books be your companions. Each one offers a unique lens into the challenges and triumphs of powerful women who’ve made an impact. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or soaking in new ideas, this summer is your time to be inspired, to grow, and to remember that your story, too, is worth telling.
So grab a book, grab a beach chair, and let the words of these incredible women stir something new in you. Happy reading!