From historical figures like Marie Curie and Eleanor Roosevelt, to modern women such as Oprah Winfrey and Malala Yousafzai, the month of March celebrates those who have advocated for women’s rights, endured trials and broken societal barriers.
With that being said, it’s important to acknowledge that the concept of Women’s History Month is often misconstrued. According to LSE Feminist Club Sponsor Chelsea Merritt-Merboth, many individuals tie the celebration directly to feminism: an ideal which some are uncomfortable with. Yet, ultimately, this month is about recognizing a group of people who don’t typically receive as much appreciation as others.
“[It’s important] to give respect to all of the women that worked tirelessly before us to provide us with rights as simple as being able to have a credit card, being able to buy a home,” Merritt-Merboth said. “[Additionally] it’s also an opportunity for us to celebrate the ongoing work that’s being done.”
Within this article are recommendations for novels, podcasts and albums written, recorded and produced by accomplished women, spanning over centuries–many of which have been critically acclaimed and well-established.
Book Recommendations:
“The Handmaid’s Tale,” by Margret Atwood
The dystopian novel “The Handmaid’s Tale,” by Margret Atwood was published in 1985, and follows lead character Offred, who’s positioned as a Handmaid in a totalitarian, dystopian version of the United States. In this society, due to low reproduction rates, Handmaids–including Offred–are forced to procreate against their will. Women in this fictional work are restricted and violated in many ways, and therefore the novel explores themes of manipulation and patriarchal control. In addition to “The Handmaid’s Tale,” Atwood is also known for her other books (including “The Testament” and “Alias Grace”) along with her various poems, and has won numerous prizes for these works, including the Booker Prize (2019-2020), and the Giller Prize (1996). “The Handmaid’s Tale” has further been adopted into a popular television series that may also be enjoyed by fans of the book. Both LSE Women’s Literature Teacher, Katherine Rochford and Merritt-Merboth recommend this renowned novel for Women’s History Month.
*Disclaimer: “The Handmaid’s Tale” contains mature themes and graphic elements, that may not be suitable for all readers.
Goodreads: The Handmaid’s Tale Summary
“Frankenstein,” by Mary Shelly
Many are likely familiar with the classic monster-story of Frankenstein: a character who has long-since become a Halloween staple. However, some may not be aware of the origin of the novel, which was written by Mary Shelly in 1818. The novel follows a Swiss scientist who invents a grotesque creature out of body parts that eventually morphs into a vengeful monster. “Frankenstein” is typically classified as horror and science fiction, both of which were unusual genres for female authors to openly write during the 1800s.
“For a woman to write a graphic-like horror novel at the time was unheard of. She also didn’t do it underneath of a pen name, which is great,” Merritt-Merboth said.
Oftentimes, women in this time period, such as the Brontë sisters (known for their works like “Wuthering Heights” and “Emily”), relied on Pen names, to ensure that their novels or poetry wouldn’t be viewed as lesser, or taken unseriously. Yet, despite this, Shelly’s novel “Frankenstein,” which she took full credit for, has evolved into a highly well-known piece of literary work that is considered to be foundational in the genre of science fiction.
Goodreads: Frankenstein Summary
“Circe” by Madeline Miller
For fans of historical fiction and Greek Mythology, the 2011 novel, “The Song of Achilles,” written by high school teacher and author Madeline Miller, may be a good fit. In her semester-long Women’s Literature course, Rochford has her students read the book “Circe,” a novel which tells the story of the Greek goddess, who transforms from a powerless nymph into an independent witch. The novel features key mythological figures such as the monster Scylla, Odysseus and Madea, and highlights themes like female resilience and self-discovery.
Within the same scope of mythological retellings, Miller’s book “The Song of Achilles” is another popular retelling, this one focusing specifically on the Trojan War. It follows a young noble who falls in love with the warrior Achilles, after being exiled for an accidental murder. Miller has won multiple fiction awards for these two books, which have been translated into over 25 languages.
Podcast Recommendations:
“Serial,” hosted by Sarah Koenig
True crime and investigative journalism podcasts have risen immensely in popularity in recent years, among them being “Serial,” hosted by journalist Sarah Koenig. Within this 4-season series, Koenig does a deep-dive into the American Criminal Justice System, and walks listeners through specific court-cases, and their possibly wrongful convictions. This podcast is a favorite of Merritt-Merboth, due to the fact that Koenig thoroughly examines the “inequalities that all kinds of different people face in [this sphere].”
Since its 2014 release, the “Serial” podcast has transformed into a female-hosted, nationwide phenomenon, which has been pivotal in the true crime scene, influencing the format of multiple other podcasts, through its appealing in-depth structure. “Serial” is also known for its engaging format, and its effectiveness in sparking debates, on behalf of her listeners, on the cases which she discusses.
For those who are interested, “Serial” can be found on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music and Podbean (just to name a few).
*Disclaimer: “Serial” may contain some intense elements, and discusses topics like murder and other forms of harm.
New York Times: Serial Podcast
“Good Hang With Amy Poehler”
“Good Hang With Amy Poehler” hosted by actress and comedian Amy Poehler will undoubtedly make listeners laugh. Every Tuesday on her podcast, which is enjoyed by Rochford, Phoehler invites a new celebrity guest to discuss their careers and personal lives. Phoehler has spoken with many distinguished actors and actresses, among them being Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph, Aubrey Plaza, Paul Rudd and Steve Carell.
This particular podcast is primarily so popular because of its unstructured format, where she allows her guests to lead the (oftentimes humorous) conversation. Furthermore, “Good Hang With Amy Pholer” actively celebrates the importance of female friendships, emphasizes genuine connections on behalf of these women and discusses the success of comedic female figures in the film and comedy industries.
This podcast can be found on Spotify and Youtube.
Spotify: Good Hang With Amy Poehler
Album Recommendations:
“The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” by Lauren Hill
In 1998, “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” a solo hip-hop album written and produced by African American musical artist Lauren Hill, was released. Merritt-Merboth said it was one of the first female-led hip hop albums that she ever purchased. This album is empowering to all females–especilly Black women–and conveys the importance of independence and knowing one’s self worth. Moreover, this particular record would go on to sell over 19 million copies worldwide, and win a total of five Grammys. Aside from these noteworthy achievements, Hill’s album is filled with deep themes and was revolutionary for its genre bending (of hip hop, reggae and soul) which has helped to establish Hill as a prominent figure within the music industry.
Spotify: The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
“Hit Me Hard and Soft,” by Billie Eilish
Since her debut album in 2019, Billie Eilish has been a primary artist in the pop genre, who is known for her distinctive voice and success at music award ceremonies. Most recently (in 2024), Eilish released the album “Hit Me Hard and Soft.” With hits like “Birds of a Feather,” “Wildflower” and “Blue,” along with some lesser known, but equally well-written songs, Eilish’s 2024 album was a sensation. In fact, “Hit Me Hard and Soft” even debuted as Number 2 on the Billboard Top 200, upon its release. Further, Eilish has also showcased vulnerability through some of her other albums: which focus on topics like poor mental health, insecurities and additional personal issues, demonstrating that women shouldn’t ever feel obligated to keep up a facade, nor try to be perfect all the time. Aside from her music, Eilish has openly rejected objectification throughout her career by wearing oversized clothing, to oppose the sexualization and body shaming of women in the spotlight. Ultimately, she emphasises the importance of self-love, and challenges male authority both in her songs, and through her public image.
For those who are eager to learn more about the impact of women on culture, or ways in which society is making progress in regards to women’s rights, Women’s Literature and the LSE Feminists Club can be enlightening opportunities.
In fact, Rochford believes that participating in a course like Women’s Literature can be a highly beneficial experience.
“It’s good to learn about different things that you don’t necessarily hear about in history class, and it’s a really welcoming and inclusive group,” Rochford said.
So, this Women’s History Month, contemplate flipping through a copy of “Circe” listening to “Good Hang With Amy Poehler,” playing “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” or taking part in one of said programs, in recognition of the pivotal women in society.
