Red Hood

This book is for a slightly older reader (probably 16+), but the first scene opens with a period. Blood. It’s one of the things I love most about it.

The story revolves around Bisou Martel, who becomes a wolf hunter. She is at her strongest when she has her period, and she saves girls who are in danger of being violated by boys and men. Talk about female empowerment!

Arnold’s Little Red Riding Hood retelling tackled so many important topics, from rape culture to female sexuality and misogyny. Instead of needing to be rescued like the original Red Riding Hood, Bisou gains strength from her first period and is able to defend herself and other women from the “werewolves.” Arnold gave her Red Riding Hood agency and control, something many fairy tales seem to take from their female characters. 

This exquisite novel by Elana K. Arnold opens with an evocative sex scene and only gains momentum from there. Not for the faint-hearted, this fairytale explores themes of toxic masculinity, rape culture, and violence. Unlike some of the other books on this list, Red Hood is not an uplifting book about teenage sexuality. But if you’re wanting a gritty, daring novel that pushes the boundaries of storytelling and leaves you aching for more…look no further.