If there were a bucket list for books, this would be it. Parade spoke with 18 librarians to collect their recommendations for thebooks every woman over 50 should have on her bookshelf. Librarians give suggestions all day, they see who is checking out which books the most and they know a classic when they see it. The options on this list span so many genres—from historical fiction and fantasy to self-help, memoir, nonfiction, poetry and more.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, a 2016 study from Yale University School of Public Health followed over 5,000 people age 50 and older to gauge their health and reading habits. The study found that those who regularly read books had a 20% lower death risk over the following 12 years. So this list of books isn't just to give you entertaining choices for your downtime—picking these up could even help you live longer. (And you'll want those added years to explore all of these fascinating titles!)
Related: 25 Best Short Books You Can Easily Read in a Day, According to Librarians
50 Books Every Woman Over 50 Should Have on Her Bookshelf, According to Librarians
1. 'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood
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This dystopian novel about a frightening new social order that erases the autonomy of women was recommended by four of the librarians Parade spoke with. Erin Sladen, the advisory services program manager at the Denver Public Library, calls it a "classic" that's "both satire and warning."
2. 'Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End' by Atul Gawande
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Several librarians recommended this non-fiction book about end-of-life care. Sam Helmick, president of the American Library Association, calls it a "compassionate, honest" book that explores choice and dignity within aging. Liz A., a librarian at Madison Public Library, adds, "Our library book group read this, and many found it life-changing."
3. 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks' by Rebecca Skloot
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Also recommended by multiple librarians is this historical book about Henrietta Lacks, whose cells—taken without her knowledge— helped transform modern medicine. Jane Elder, the reference librarian at SMU's Bridwell Library, appreciates how the author "restored agency" to Henrietta Lacks through this exploration into "science, medical ethics, poverty and race."
4. 'The Thursday Murder Club' by Richard Osman
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Named by three of the librarians Parade spoke with, this suspense novel follows a mysterious murder in a retirement village. Librarian and BookToker Alexa Carrillo (aka @lexasmilesss) loves that it serves as a reminder that a sense of adventure "[doesn 't] fade with age."
5. 'Olive Kitteridge' by Elizabeth Strout
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Recommended by Maplewood Memorial Library librarians Sarah Lester and Amanda Eigen, this novel is about retired teacher Olive Kitteridge navigating changes that she detests in her life. Lester and Eigen call her an "unforgettable character."
6. 'The Women of Brewster Place' by Gloria Naylor
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This novel tells seven stories about Black women in an inner-city apartment building, chronicling the ups and downs of their lives. Karen Greene, a librarian at the Pima County Public Library in Arizona, recommends this one as it's a National Book Award winner. "I re-read this one a lot," she says.
7. 'I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman' by Nora Ephron
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Wisconsin librarian Molly W. from the Madison Public Library calls this book "a funny and smart look at the trials and tribulations of women getting older." It's written with the same sense of humor and vulnerability Nora Ephron brought to all her works, like in her classic films When Harry Met Sally... and Sleepless in Seattle.
8. 'Weaving Sundown in a Scarlet Light: 50 Poems for 50 Years' by Joy Harjo
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Molly also recommends this book, containing three-term US Poet Laureate Joy Harjo's 50 "best poems for all of us to soak up."
9. 'The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo' by Taylor Jenkins Reid
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The story follows aging Hollywood movie star Evelyn Hugo, who's finally ready to spill the truth behind her seemingly glamorous life. Carrillo, a librarian and BookToker, appreciates that this novel explores themes of "ambition, love and reinvention" through the decades of Evelyn's life.
10. 'Little Women' by Louisa May Alcott
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"A comforting classic," as Carrillo puts it, this story follows the four March sisters in the 1860s, and how their lives converge and grow in different ways.
11. 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak
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Carrillo likes this book for its "resilience and humanity." It tells the story of a young girl in Nazi Germany who finds respite in the world of books.
12. 'The Secret Garden' by Frances Hodgson Burnett
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This story follows young Mary Lennox as she unveils an elaborate secret garden at her uncle's gloomy estate that helps her change her worldview. Carrillo calls this book "timeless," adding that it reminds readers that growth is "always possible."
13. 'Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear' by Elizabeth Gilbert
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Best-selling author Elizabeth Gilbert dives into her own creative process in this book that Carrillo thinks "inspires creativity and passion projects" for readers as well.
14. 'Girl, Interrupted' by Susanna Kaysen
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Sladen says that this book is "endlessly relevant to anyone who has ever struggled with their mental health." The memoir explores the author's time in a psychiatric ward in the late '60s.
15. 'The Year of Magical Thinking' by Joan Didion
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This memoir chronicles Didion's time spent grappling with her husband's sudden death. "[It] encapsulates the universal experience of grief," Sladen says.
16. 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Brontë
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"If you only read this in high school, it’s worth another look," says Elder. She adds that she likes how Jane achieves things on her own terms, explaining, "Jane is a stronger character than many may remember."Related: 21 Books Like ‘Fourth Wing,’ According to Librarians
17. 'Rebecca' by Daphne du Maurier
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Elder calls this psychological thriller "the perfect armchair vacation." The central character seemingly finds love with a widower, only to find that his late wife casts a large shadow. The librarian loves the "atmospheric mystery with its lush setting in Cornwall."
18. 'North To The Orient' by Anne Morrow Lindbergh
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Also recommended by Elder is this memoir written by Charles Lindbergh's wife, Anne Morrow Lindbergh, who is a pilot in her own right. It follows her journey with her husband surveying the New York to Asia route. Elder lauds it as an "aviation adventure."
19. 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon
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"[It's] often talked about for its spicy romance and time travel, but I've always admired Claire's strength," Menendez-Cuesta says. "She is a woman who carries her experience with her and refuses to shrink in difficult circumstances."
20. 'Practical Magic' by Alice Hoffman
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Related: ‘Bridgerton’ Author Shares the Books She Thinks You’ll Love Right Now
21. 'The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning' by Margareta Magnusson
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"[It] changed the way I think about decluttering," Menendez-Cuesta says of this book, adding, "There’s something empowering about choosing what stays in your life and what doesn’t."
22. 'The Great Alone' by Kristin Hannah
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When a family moves to the Alaskan wilderness in the '70s, the mother and daughter have to adapt to their new, difficult circumstances. "It really stayed with me because it captures the kind of quiet resilience many of us develop over time," says Menendez-Cuesta.
23. 'Crying in H Mart' by Michelle Zauner
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The author explores her complicated relationship with her immigrant mother in this memoir, recommended by librarians Lester and Eigen. "[The] mouthwatering food writing is the icing on the cake," they share.
24. 'The Let Them Theory' by Mel Robbins
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Lester and Eigen like this self-help book's "fresh spin on regaining power and control in life, love and everything in between."
25. 'All Fours' by Miranda July
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A novel about an artist, mother and wife who spontaneously starts a new life. Delving into themes of motherhood, menopause, sexuality and reinvention, Lester and Eigen think this book "is relevant to women [of all ages]."
26. 'Sitting Pretty: The View from My Ordinary, Resilient, Disabled Body' by Rebekah Taussig
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"This book should be required reading for all, because every one of us inhabits a body that will need various forms of accommodation at some point or another—and we invariably possess some degree of internalized ableism that we would do well to dismantle," Lester and Eigen say.
27. 'Know My Name' by Chanel Miller
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Also recommended by Lester and Eigen is this memoir about Roxane Gay's struggle with disordered eating and self-image. "Her reflections are eye-opening, deeply affecting and thought-provoking," the librarians say.
29. 'Without Children: The Long History of Not Being a Mother' by Peggy O'Donnell Heffington
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She adds, "I recommend this book to people who have children, people who want to have children, people who don't want to have children and people who know people who have, want and do not have children."
30. 'What We Owe Each Other: A New Social Contract for a Better Society' by Minouche Shafik
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As Waldman describes it, this book is "a carefully-considered and incisive articulation of the ways in which our current society is not structured for a sustainable future for human communities, with suggestions for practical change."
31. 'Figuring' by Maria Popova
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The author weaves together the ideologies and lives of many famous female scientists, writers and artists for a historical journey that "is beautifully moving," says Waldman. She adds that it's "probably my most universally recommended book of all time."
32. 'On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century' by Timothy Snyder
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"Historian Timothy Snyder distills bite-sized and practical advice in the fight against tyranny in all its shapes and sizes in this short book," says librarian Abby Hargreaves. "Fairly nonpartisan, On Tyranny is an accessible modern classic that is a must-read for the responsible and engaged citizen."
33. 'The Menopause Manifesto' by Dr. Jen Gunter
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Dr. Jen Gunter seeks to demystify menopause with this book. "[It] empowers women with factual insights and clear information," says Monisa Waters, the Community Engagement Specialist at the DC Public Library.
34. 'Shopping for Pleasure: Women in the Making of London's West End' by Erika Rappaport
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Also recommended by Waters, this fascinating history book explores the culture of shopping and how it shaped "women's leisure and identity," she explains. It focuses particularly on the Victorian era, where women began engaging more in public life.
35. 'Sula' by Toni Morrison
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"Sula explores the complicated friendship of two women who choose distinct paths in their lives that remain intertwined," she says, adding that it's a "powerful" story.
36. 'Unkind Mind: The Neuroscience of Why Women Are So Hard on Themselves―and How to Quiet Your Inner Critic for Good' by Betsy Holmberg, PhD
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"Holmberg's slim, honest guide offers practical skills and advice for silencing our inner critic and reconnecting with the kind voices," says Stover. She adds that the book is "accessible to any reader," even when it dives into the scientific side of our brains and why our thoughts can be so harsh on ourselves.
37. 'Forever Fifty' by Judith Viorst
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"There's a fine art to aging, and Viorst aims to add some laugh lines to the wrinkles," Stover says of this humorous poetry book about aging.
38. 'How to Be a Rich Old Lady: Your Guide to Easy Investing, Building Wealth, and Creating the Wild, Beautiful Life You Want' by Amanda Holden
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Stover says this best-selling financial guide reminds readers that "it's not too late to take charge of your finances at 50. [And] if you're under 50, why not start now?"
39. 'Old In Art School' by Nell Painter
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This memoir tells the story of a historian who decides to go back to art school in her retirement. Stover says it's a great reminder "that it's never too late" to change the expectations for your life.
40. 'The Change' by Kirsten Miller
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"Three women find that as they begin going through 'the change,' they get more than just hot flashes and insomnia—they are developing powers that they can use to fight for women, specifically the girls going missing in their community," Kylie explains. "Such a fun read, and an exciting, original spin on menopause."
41. 'Untamed' by Glennon Doyle
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Helmick, the American Library Association President, says that this book is a "powerful" read for women—especially those who grew up as people-pleasers.
42. 'The Art of Gathering' by Priya Parker
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This best-selling self-help book explores the importance of creating intentional community. Helmick says it's a "powerful" and "meaningful" read.
43. 'Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants' by Robin Wall Kimmerer
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This poetry book challenges you to take a deeper look at nature and the land as you age. Helmick says it "reframes wisdom" as a relationship that "deepens beautifully over time."Related: 2008 Dystopian Novel Was Just Voted the ‘Best Book Ever’ by Goodreads
44. 'The Frozen River' by Ariel Lawhon
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Maria Escher from the DC Public Library recommends this historical fiction book about 18th-century midwife Martha Ballard. It follows Martha as she tries to solve a murder, and it's a total "page-turner," she says.
45. 'The Fifth Season' by N.K. Jemisin
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This fantasy book follows a mother's hunt for her kidnapped daughter. Escher says this novel feels like it's "written for middle-aged women by a middle-aged woman." She lauds the world-building, plot and characters as "brilliant" and "the best fantasy" she's read.
46. 'My Brilliant Friend' by Elena Ferrante
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A librarian at North Regional Library in Raleigh, NC, who prefers to remain anonymous, recommends this "influential" novel about the complexities of female friendship as its two main characters navigate the roller coaster of growing up.
47. 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' by Zora Neale Hurston
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This book is about a Black woman's search for herself and love in the South. It was also recommended by the North Regional librarian who wishes to remain anonymous, who called it "a beautiful story of self-discovery."
48. 'Who Moved My Cheese?' by Dr. Spencer Johnson
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This self-help book encourages you to embrace change in your work and home life, and it's recommended by Yvette Davis, branch manager at the DC Public Library. She calls it "a motivational parable" that can help you let go of fear and embrace flexibility and opportunity.
49. 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings'by Maya Angelou
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This memoir is a "powerful" read, says Davis. It chronicles Angelou's childhood struggles and ultimate rise as a writer.
50. 'Why We Can’t Wait' by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
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Related: 56 Best Sad Books That Will Definitely Make You Cry, According to Librarians
Sources:
Karen Greene is a librarian at the Pima County Public Library in Arizona.Liz A. is a librarian at Madison Public Library in Wisconsin.Molly W. is a librarian at the Madison Public Library.Kylie S. is a librarian at the Madison Public Library.Alexa Carrillo is a YA librarian and BookToker under the user @lexasmilesss.Kaite Stover is the Director of Readers’ Services at the Kansas City Public Library.Erin Sladen is the Advisory Services Program Manager at the Denver Public Library.Sam Helmick is the President of the American Library Association.Jane Elder is the Reference Librarian at SMU's Bridwell Library.Loanis Menendez-Cuesta is the Assistant Library Director at the Delray Beach Public Library in South Florida.Sarah Lester is the Director of the Maplewood Memorial Library.Amanda Eigen is the Assistant Director of the Maplewood Memorial Library.Rose Waldman is a Library Supervisor at the Menlo Park Public Library.Abby Hargreaves is a librarian.An anonymous librarian at North Regional Library in Raleigh, NC.Monisa Waters is the Community Engagement Specialist at the DC Public Library.Maria Escher is a librarian at the DC Public Library.Yvette Davis is a Branch Manager at the DC Public Library.Hence then, the article about 50 books every woman over 50 should have on her bookshelf according to librarians was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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