TMU’s Literary Salon: Must-read picks for International Women's Month

As Women's Month comes to an end, Toronto Metropolitan University's Very Own Literary Salon presents their favourite woman and feminist-focused books

(Image illustrated by Caleigh Burias)

The Diary of Frida Kahlo: An Intimate Self-Portrait by Frida Kahlo

I became curious about Frida Kahlo through reading another book, The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph, which is about overcoming adversity. I have always enjoyed her artwork, and through learning more about her and being so inspired by her, I decided to look into her story further. She channeled her immense hardships— including childhood polio, a severe bus accident and chronic pain—into deeply personal and impactful artwork. Her artwork is known for exploring death, pain, the female body and identity through her vivid and expressive self-portraits.

— Zain Baig, Founder

Bad Feminist by Roxanne Gay

I read this book a couple of years back during the lockdown; it was one of my very first feminist lit reads. It’s a collection of personal essays that, though written over 10 years ago, still ring true today. Roxanne does an amazing job at making poignant critiques while still being personable, like telling the reader about her love for Scrabble and The Hunger Games, but also not shying away from informing the reader on her experience with sexual assault.

It often feels like feminism is almost like a curse word. Believe me, I’ve had long and laborious conversations trying to convince people (both men and women) why feminism is still needed. It seems why people tend to avoid feminism is because the picture people have of a “perfect feminist” is simply unattainable—and the outspoken few who aren’t perfect render feminism as useless and harmful to men. I really encourage people to consider reading and being a “bad feminist.” 

— Polly Yang, Finance Manager

The Poppy War by R.F Kaung 

The Poppy War follows a peasant orphan girl named Rin who defies gender, class and racial marginalization through her journey of obtaining freedom and power in a world built against her. I especially loved how Rin was someone everyone looked down on and underestimated, only for her to prove them all wrong by being extremely powerful. I also love how she’s a strong female protagonist, but still has her moral imperfections. The story can be viewed as a study in liberal feminism and self-protection against systemic abuse.

— Caleigh Burias, Social Media Manager 

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

Given that this book was written in the 60's and still holds true for parts of the teen experience nowadays is just one reason I decided to write about it. Another reason was the author's efforts to get the book published as a young female writer in the 60's. I've been meaning to read this for a long time and only just got around to it last year, whereas most people might've already been assigned it in elementary school. But part of her struggle was choosing a title, and also choosing how her name would be listed on the books. S.E. sounds more like a male writer's name, and sounds more ominous as opposed to Susan Hinton. Her choice to be a bit more hidden (unfortunately) allowed potential readers/buyers to easily choose the book, which shows a clear connection between how strong the patriarchal society had been during that time. Even though the book is centered around the actions/stories of young boys navigating their teen lives, while growing up without their parents and experiencing a lot of social division and violence, it's the author's expression that is reflected in the tone of each of her characters, which allows us to see the development of Ponyboy and the other main characters. If you're looking for a light read as well, this is one.

— Teresa Baricevic, PR Executive

Circe by Madeline Miller

Circe is a novel that explores the untold story of the Ancient Greek sorcerer, who was cursed to remain on an island on Earth for the rest of her days. As I followed her through her bleak childhood amongst the Titans, watched the events unfold leading to her eternal isolation, as well as what she did with her time there, I could not help but feel a connection to her and her struggles. Circe endured what every woman does; in essence, she is punished for being a woman. While it takes her time to learn, as it does for most of us (although not often in the manner of turning men to pigs as per her style, unfortunately), Circe too finds a purpose and strength within not only her abilities, but her strength of will. A must-read blend of fantasy and feelings that will leave you pondering for days!

— Fahmida Fatima, Social Media & Events Manager

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

A must-read for women's history month is The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid. This novel explores the power of societal expectations on women decades ago (and still today) by showing us a female protagonist in the public eye who puts up a front to protect her Hollywood reputation and hide her true identity. Evelyn tells her experience being in the spotlight and having seven husbands throughout her lifetime to a young magazine reporter named Monique Grant. As Evelyn's story continues to unfold, the reader and Monique learn more and more about her scandalous life and the effort it takes to hide behind an image of someone so amazingly confident and successful. The pacing of the book was perfect, and it didn’t feel dull at any moment. Evelyn’s character was also written incredibly well. She’s manipulative and knows just what to say to pull people, and even us readers, in.

— Paniya Shahbakhti, Social Media & Marketing Manager