The best fiction and nonfiction personal narratives about women’s rights, roles, and limitations over time

Did you know that a husband could commit his wife to an insane asylum, without a doctor’s diagnosis, in the late 1800s? Elizabeth Packard was one of them. Her courage and deep desire to help others and herself escape unfair and inhumane treatment in the Illinois State Hospital and the reality that a woman was often viewed as a servant is an insight into women’s ever-changing roles. Growing up as a baby-boomer and experiencing the hippie generation, I felt a tug in two directions—freedom to be who I was created to be and growing up under my mother’s mentorship where Dad was head of the house. Elizabeth’s story could have been mine. 

Is it any wonder that Einstein’s wife, Maric, and he drifted apart as the years passed when we learn the story behind the story? His wife was a brilliant physicist in her own right. In fact, the theory of relativity may have been inspired by her profound intellect. It is my impression that in a relationship, one is more outgoing than the other. Relationships where partnerships co-exist and each person’s skills and intellect are validated and appreciated may be outside the norm. Maric’s story encourages me to affirm my own gifts.

I was inspired by the strong women in this book about Kentucky women who risked their lives to see that everyone had an opportunity to learn to read and have books in their hands. Plus, there is an additional theme which surprised me, and who doesn’t like a surprise. As a writer, avid reader, and retired teacher, I appreciate being able to connect with what I’m reading. This, also, was an eye-opening read into our history. Understanding history, I feel, is an important part of understanding who I am.

Lydia, who lived in Acapulco, finds herself on the run with her only child, Lucas, due to the recent murder of her husband and feeling threatened herself. It is a timely book considering the countless number of people trying to enter the US—some of them fearing for their very lives. Although fiction, it was inspired by real-life people with real-life issues and how a mother will do anything to protect her child. As a mother of four, I understood I would do anything to protect my children. It was easy and yet painful to put myself in Lydia’s position as she suffered abuse, weather, hunger, and extreme fear to save her son and herself for a better life. It reminds me that sometimes we end up basically on our own in very tenuous situations. Would I be able to plan as Lydia did and then have the courage to carry it out? 

Inspired by an Oprah episode, Lisa Shannon starts to run for Congo Women—literally. Beginning with a 30-mile run and a deep desire to make a difference, it’s an inspiration as to women’s ever-changing roles, and how one person can start a movement that can impact many. In the Congo, she learns it is the worst place on earth for women to live. Instead of driving her away, her life evolves into something bigger than she could have imagined. My daughter, who had been to Africa herself many years ago, recommended this book. The stamina and courage it took to survive was beyond admiration; it was miraculous. I, at times, wonder how God’s divine plan will playout when I read of such circumstances. But when I read of Lisa’s calling, I am reminded that we are each called to be the hands and feet of Jesus—something bigger than who we are alone.