Here are 100 books that Girls Write Now Unmuted fans have personally recommended if you like Girls Write Now Unmuted. Book DNA is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Colonize This! Young Women of Color on Today's Feminism

Darien Gee Author Of Nonwhite and Woman: 131 Micro Essays on Being in the World

From my list on women of color finding their stories.

Why am I passionate about this?

As an author, editor, and woman of color, I celebrate stories that reflect a diversity of voices. Good storytelling allows us to catch a glimpse into lives that may be similar or different from ours, that champion what makes us unique while reminding us that we are not alone.  

Darien's book list on women of color finding their stories

Darien Gee Why Darien loves this book

Originally published in 2002, Colonize This! brings together the voices of young women of color writing about their experiences of race and gender in America. The 2019 edition features essays by a new generation of feminists of color writing on issues such as police violence, transgender rights, and immigration. These fresh voices are intermixed with essays from the original 2002 publication, creating a poignant feminist dialogue.

By Daisy Hernández (editor) , Bushra Rehman (editor) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Colonize This! Young Women of Color on Today's Feminism as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

It has been decades since women of color first turned feminism upside down, exposing the feminist movement as exclusive, white, and unaware of the concerns and issues of women of color from around the globe. Since then, key social movements have risen, including Black Lives Matter, transgender rights, and the activism of young undocumented students. Social media has also changed how feminism reaches young women of color, generating connections in all corners of the country. And yet we remain a country divided by race and gender.

Now, a new generation of outspoken women of color offer a much-needed fresh dimension…


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Book cover of The Rosewood Penny

The Rosewood Penny by J.S. Fields,

2023 Queer Indie Award Nominee!

The dragons of Yuro have been hunted to extinction.

On a small, isolated island, in a reclusive forest, lives bandit leader Marani and her brother Jacks. With their outlaw band they rob from the rich to feed themselves, raiding carriages and dodging the occasional vindictive…

Book cover of Well-Read Black Girl: Finding Our Stories, Discovering Ourselves

Darien Gee Author Of Nonwhite and Woman: 131 Micro Essays on Being in the World

From my list on women of color finding their stories.

Why am I passionate about this?

As an author, editor, and woman of color, I celebrate stories that reflect a diversity of voices. Good storytelling allows us to catch a glimpse into lives that may be similar or different from ours, that champion what makes us unique while reminding us that we are not alone.  

Darien's book list on women of color finding their stories

Darien Gee Why Darien loves this book

In this anthology, twenty-one Black women writers, including Jesmyn Ward, Gabourey Sidibe, Lynn Nottage, and Tayari Jones, write about the first time they saw themselves reflected in literature. This moving collection of essays is at once a love letter to books and an exploration of the intersection of race, gender, and the written word.    

By Glory Edim ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Well-Read Black Girl as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'Required reading.' - Cosmopolitan
'This should be read as a sacred text. Here, you will bear witness to a perpetual salvation song.' - Jason Reynolds

Remember that moment when you first encountered a character who seemed to be written just for you? That feeling of belonging remains with readers the rest of their lives - but not everyone regularly sees themselves reflected on the pages of a book.

In this timely anthology, Glory Edim, founder of the online community, Well-Read Black Girl, brings together original essays by some of America's best black women writers to shine a light on how…


Book cover of This Bridge Called My Back: Writings by Radical Women of Color

Darien Gee Author Of Nonwhite and Woman: 131 Micro Essays on Being in the World

From my list on women of color finding their stories.

Why am I passionate about this?

As an author, editor, and woman of color, I celebrate stories that reflect a diversity of voices. Good storytelling allows us to catch a glimpse into lives that may be similar or different from ours, that champion what makes us unique while reminding us that we are not alone.  

Darien's book list on women of color finding their stories

Darien Gee Why Darien loves this book

In the preface to the fourth edition of This Bridge Called My Back, editor Cherrie Moraga writes that the anthology was created with a “hope for revolutionary solidarity.” This groundbreaking collection of essays, poems and artwork remains a moving testimony of the experiences of women of color in America.

By Cherrie Moraga (editor) , Gloria Anzaldúa (editor) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked This Bridge Called My Back as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

classic collection of feminist writings


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Book cover of Chilled to the Bone

Chilled to the Bone by B.D. Lawrence,

Jake Sledge, a rugged ex-cop turned private eye, teams up with his colossal partner Bobo to navigate the gritty streets of River City.

A murdered lawyer drags them into a web of political intrigue, neo-Nazi thugs, and bloody showdowns. With sharp wit and hard-hitting action, Jake tackles scumbags the only…

Book cover of When the Light of the World Was Subdued, Our Songs Came Through: A Norton Anthology of Native Nations Poetry

Darien Gee Author Of Nonwhite and Woman: 131 Micro Essays on Being in the World

From my list on women of color finding their stories.

Why am I passionate about this?

As an author, editor, and woman of color, I celebrate stories that reflect a diversity of voices. Good storytelling allows us to catch a glimpse into lives that may be similar or different from ours, that champion what makes us unique while reminding us that we are not alone.  

Darien's book list on women of color finding their stories

Darien Gee Why Darien loves this book

Edited by former Poet Laureate Joy Harjo, this poetry collection does not exclusively feature women, but we all need more poetry in our lives. This expansive collection of native voices spans from 17th century to the 20th, and is the most historically comprehensive collection of native poetry to date. When the Light of the World Was Subdued should be recommended reading everywhere.

By Joy Harjo (editor) , LeAnne Howe (editor) , Jennifer Elise Foerster (editor)

Why should I read it?

1 author picked When the Light of the World Was Subdued, Our Songs Came Through as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

United States Poet Laureate Joy Harjo gathers the work of more than 160 poets, representing nearly 100 indigenous nations, into one momentous volume. This landmark anthology celebrates the indigenous peoples of North America, the first poets of this country, whose literary traditions stretch back centuries.

Opening with a blessing from Pulitzer Prize winner N. Scott Momaday, the book contains powerful introductions from contributing editors who represent the five geographically organised sections. Each section begins with a poem from the massive libraries of oral literatures and closes with emerging poets, ranging from Eleazar, a seventeenth-century Native student at Harvard, to Jake…


Book cover of The Little Book of Boards: A Board Member's Handbook for Small (and Very Small) Nonprofits

Melisa Galasso Author Of Money Matters for Nonprofits: How Board Members Can Harness the Power of Financial Statements by Understanding Basic Accounting

From my list on someone new to a nonprofit board.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a CPA with nearly 20 years of experience in the accounting profession and I provide continuing education to CPA firms in the area of accounting and auditing. One of my areas of specialization is government and nonprofit accounting. I serve on the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB’s) Not-for-Profit Advisory Committee and the AICPA’s Governing Council. I am passionate about the standard setting process and ensuring financial reporting is accurate and presented in a way to help the user make financial decisions. I have a BSBA from Georgetown University with a concentration in Accounting and International Business. 

Melisa's book list on someone new to a nonprofit board

Melisa Galasso Why Melisa loves this book

The Little Book of Boards provides a concise and easy-to-read overview of what are the responsibilities of a board member. It provides an excellent overview of the fiduciary responsibilities of the board and then the further responsibilities of someone who takes a leadership position. The appendices provide helpful guidance. When I was researching the nonprofit books out there for board members in preparation for writing mine, I found this one to be practical and well-written. Some books were too detailed but this one provided enough context for someone new to a board position. 

By Erik Hanberg ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Little Book of Boards as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Are you new to a board and have no idea what’s expected of you? Do you know what a board’s six key responsibilities are? Do you know what your relationship with the Executive Director should be? If not, this book is for you.

So many board members—especially of small nonprofits—want to support a nonprofit and readily accept the invitation to join the board. It’s only then that they discover they are in over their heads, with no idea of their expectations and responsibilities. The Little Book of Boards is here to throw that drowning board member a rope.

Told with…


Book cover of Joan Garry's Guide to Nonprofit Leadership: Because the World Is Counting on You

Ed Mishrell Author Of The 5 Truths for Transformational Leaders: How Nonprofit Organizations Thrive, Grow, and Make a Profound Difference

From my list on leaders with the courage to be transformational.

Why am I passionate about this?

I've been fascinated throughout my career by what makes an effective leader. I read about leadership; I carefully observed effective leaders; and I worked hard to become a leader. After a 40-year career, I concluded that nonprofit leaders required a leadership model that met the unique challenges of leading a nonprofit organization and that I was the right person to write the book. I'm proud of The 5 Truths for Transformational Leaders. I believe the book addresses the unique challenges of leading a nonprofit organization. I hope you discover how to use its principles to make a bigger difference in achieving your organization’s mission. Nothing could be more important for the future of our nation.

Ed's book list on leaders with the courage to be transformational

Ed Mishrell Why Ed loves this book

While there are thousands of books on leadership there are few that specifically address the challenges of leading a nonprofit organization. 

Leading a nonprofit is different; authority is diffused and widely shared, success is difficult to define and competition for resources is intense. Or, as Joan states “nonprofits are messy.” Joan provides a practical guide to leaders based on her experience as a leader and consultant.  

Her approach is down to earth straight forward and sprinkled with a dash of humor. Hearing Joan speak and subsequently reading her book several years ago was the first impetus for me to explore writing about nonprofit leadership. Thank you Joan.

By Joan Garry ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Joan Garry's Guide to Nonprofit Leadership as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In a world where the old rules no longer apply, nonprofit leadership is more important than ever

Now in its second edition, Joan Garry's Guide to Nonprofit Leadership is a must-have resource for organizations of all shapes and sizes wanting to make a bigger difference in the world. Filled with real-life stories and concrete strategies, this practical guide helps develop the specialized skills and mindset needed to successfully lead and manage a stable and impactful world-class organization.

A lot has happened since Joan Garry's Guide to Nonprofit Leadership was first published in 2017. The COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 election cycle,…


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Book cover of The Woman and Her Stars

The Woman and Her Stars by Penny Haw,

Caroline Herschel has always lived in the shadows. Beholden to her wildly popular older brother, William, who rescued her from servitude, she's worked hard to build a life for herself – one where she can go unnoticed and repay the debt she believes she owes him. But when her brother…

Book cover of The Best of Boards: Sound Governance and Leadership for Nonprofit Organizations

Melisa Galasso Author Of Money Matters for Nonprofits: How Board Members Can Harness the Power of Financial Statements by Understanding Basic Accounting

From my list on someone new to a nonprofit board.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a CPA with nearly 20 years of experience in the accounting profession and I provide continuing education to CPA firms in the area of accounting and auditing. One of my areas of specialization is government and nonprofit accounting. I serve on the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB’s) Not-for-Profit Advisory Committee and the AICPA’s Governing Council. I am passionate about the standard setting process and ensuring financial reporting is accurate and presented in a way to help the user make financial decisions. I have a BSBA from Georgetown University with a concentration in Accounting and International Business. 

Melisa's book list on someone new to a nonprofit board

Melisa Galasso Why Melisa loves this book

This book builds on the information provided by The Little Book of Boards by going into more details into the nitty gritty. This book addresses the legal responsibilities of the board risk management and ethics. It also has a chapter on financial statements and internal controls. Each chapter provides just enough details that the reader can start to get a great understanding of the big picture of a board member’s responsibilities. The book closes with a focus on change management and useful case studies to get the reader thinking about their responsibilities for the nonprofit organization. I’d definitely recommend reading this after the Little Book of Boards to continue to grow the knowledge base without getting overwhelmed.

By Marci S. Thomas ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Best of Boards as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Nonprofit organizations boards are justifiably passionate about their causes and eager to help their organizations. However, in today s increasingly regulated climate, board members, who come from diverse backgrounds and may have little financial expertise, can feel overwhelmed by the regulations that are their duty to follow. The Best of Boards: Sound Governance and Leadership for Nonprofit Organizations provides not-for-profit board members and financial managers with the essential fiduciary knowledge and indispensable leadership guidance that they need to meet the challenges of the current not-for-profit environment. This book contains: * Financial and ethical guidance for real-life situations * Practical leadership…


Book cover of Uncharitable: How Restraints on Nonprofits Undermine Their Potential

Linda Lysakowski Author Of The Pastor’s Guide to Stewardship and Philanthropy

From my list on nonprofit fundraising from a pro.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been a professional fundraiser for more than thirty-five years and have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly in this profession. I began writing short stories at the age of ten and became a published author in 1994. Since then, I have authored, co-authored, or contributed to approximately forty published books (The Pastor's Guide being the most recent, all available on Amazon). I agree with Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who said fundraising is a noble profession, and I care deeply that fundraisers are respected for the wonderful work they do. Fundraisers are usually not born but made. Excellent fundraisers learn from the best, continually study their profession, and have a real passion for what they do!

Linda's book list on nonprofit fundraising from a pro

Linda Lysakowski Why Linda loves this book

Many watchdogs of the charitable sector often stress that some nonprofit executives and fundraisers are paid what appear to be exorbitant salaries. Dan’s book brings the nonprofit sector out of the shadows and talks about why no nonprofit should be embarrassed or intimidated by hiring a professional fundraising staff and/or consultants to help them raise the money they need to fulfill their vision for a better community, country, or world.

I found his book a refreshing look at the profession of fundraising and how important it is to the nonprofit’s mission. I recommend that every nonprofit board member read this book. Your eyes will be opened to new possibilities.

By Dan Pallotta ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Uncharitable as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Uncharitable investigates how for-profit strategies could and should be used by nonprofits.

Uncharitable goes where no other book on the nonprofit sector has dared to tread. Where other texts suggest ways to optimize performance inside the existing charity paradigm, Uncharitable suggests that the paradigm itself is the problem and calls into question our fundamental canons about charity. Dan Pallotta argues that society's nonprofit ethic creates an inequality that denies the nonprofit sector critical tools and permissions that the for-profit sector is allowed to use without restraint. These double standards place the nonprofit sector at an extreme disadvantage. While the for-profit…


Book cover of The Nonprofit Strategy Revolution: Real-Time Strategic Planning in a Rapid-Response World

Lester Olmstead-Rose Author Of The Nonprofit Business Plan: The Leader's Guide to Creating a Successful Business Model

From my list on nonprofit leaders to keep at their fingertips.

Why am I passionate about this?

I became a nonprofit consultant because I could use my best skills in writing and facilitating and apply them for good. I continue in this work because nothing is more exciting than helping people who have dedicated their lives to making the world better in some specific way actually take the next step to do better. The books I’ve recommended have made me far better at what I do.

Lester's book list on nonprofit leaders to keep at their fingertips

Lester Olmstead-Rose Why Lester loves this book

This book is the best guide and easiest-to-follow approach to nonprofit strategic planning out there. It shows the way out of the typical SWOT brainstorming towards a more considered, flexible, and impactful approach. I’m especially enamored of the way it focuses on actual strategy—something missing in almost every other strategic planning methodology that drives you to adopt a series of action steps without ever describing what they’ll add up to accomplishing. 

Full disclosure, though … this book was written by the founder of my firm. But that aside, I’ve used this approach with probably 100 organizations I’ve worked with, and I’ve found its durability to be outstanding! The approach—or elements of the method—can be self-facilitated for many organizations.

By David La Piana , Melissa Mendes Campos ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Nonprofit Strategy Revolution as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Turner Publishing proudly presents a fully-updated edition of The Nonprofit Strategy Revolution FINALIST, Ben Franklin Awards, Independent Book Publishers Association, Business Category

The world changes continuously and rapidly. It's foolhardy to believe that strategies should not do so as well. Nonprofit leaders already know this, but traditional strategic planning has locked them into a process that's divorced from today's reality. That's why plans sit on the shelf and why smart executives are always seeking workarounds in between planning periods. The Nonprofit Strategy Revolution offers a nimble and powerful alternative. In this groundbreaking book, strategy expert David La Piana introduces "Real-Time…


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Book cover of Murder, Lies and Chocolate

Murder, Lies and Chocolate by Sally Berneathy,

Book 2, Death by Chocolate series.

Rodney Bradford comes into Lindsay's restaurant, offers to buy her small house for double its value, eats her brownies, and drops dead on the sidewalk in front. Next, her almost-ex-husband offers to sign the divorce papers, but only if she'll give him her small,…

Book cover of Thankology

Ken Burnett Author Of Storytelling Can Change the World

From my list on if you really want to change the world.

Why am I passionate about this?

Re-inventing how people relate to good causes that change the world has been a lifetime obsession for me, and I’ve made it the focus of my career for nearly 50 years, writing at least eight books on the subject. Some time back, I wrote my book, below, a light, lively exploration of how simple storytelling skills help us to help others in all sorts of creative and enjoyable ways. Its objective was to enable aspiring innovative writers to focus on how best they can make positive differences in this troubled world by telling their stories with power, passion, and impact that will ensure they stick and endure. That’s my passion.

Ken's book list on if you really want to change the world

Ken Burnett Why Ken loves this book

In this book basic politeness, previously viewed as an expensive, time-consuming administrative chore, author Lisa shows conclusively to be perhaps the single best fundraising opportunity of them all, particularly in securing a donor’s all-important second gift.

An ‘ology’ is a really big thing. With an ology, you’re a scientist. In Thank-ology the author elevates an attitude of gratitude to a richly creative and productive art backed by a precise understanding that produces results with certainty. I value it particularly because it’s packed with copyable examples and easy-to-follow guidance, all in an accessible style that reassures readers that here is friendly guidance through the intricacies of using thanking seriously, safely, and sincerely to warm the hearts of those who’ve just done something wonderful. The checklists, visuals, and open sharing of ideas really appealed to me, making this a book to treasure.

By Lisa Sargent ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Thankology as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Get the nonprofit book by Lisa Sargent that shows you how to transform your fundraising results and lift your donor retention to new highs through the often-overlooked power of proper thanking.

Complete with gratitude brain science, field-tested samples, and page after page of show-stopping results across donation thank-you letters, donor newsletters, annual reports, welcome packs, and more – plus a 6-step framework to ensure your donor thank you success every time – put your nonprofit first in line to buy this book.

Praise for Thankology:
“Chapter by chapter, [Lisa Sargent] defines and describes the key milestones that will be fundraising's…


Book cover of Colonize This! Young Women of Color on Today's Feminism
Book cover of Well-Read Black Girl: Finding Our Stories, Discovering Ourselves
Book cover of This Bridge Called My Back: Writings by Radical Women of Color

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5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in nonprofits, Michelle Obama, and social justice?

Nonprofits 32 books
Michelle Obama 25 books
Social Justice 90 books