7 Empowering Books Every Young Woman Should Read as a Teenager

1. Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Series by Ann Brashares

I might be a bit biased because The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series contains some of my favorite stories ever, but they truly are essential reading for any young woman. They aren't just about best friends; they're about how to be a good BFF and navigating the world when you're physically apart. These books are timeless, though they perfectly capture the essence of the teenage experience. You can find more about the series on Ann Brashares' official website.

2. The Princess Diaries Series by Meg Cabot

If you’re a fan of the Princess Diaries movies, the books are absolutely worth the read—and they offer so much more depth. With several books in the series (including the adult follow-ups!), there is a lot to get lost in. They’re quirky, relatable, and yet wonderfully dreamy. Who hasn’t imagined being told they’re royalty on their 16th birthday? After reading these, you’ll definitely wish you were Mia Thermopolis, or at the very least, that Michael Moscovitz was real. Check out more from Meg Cabot for other fantastic reads.

3. The Daughters Series by Joanna Philbin

The Daughters is a series about best friends who happen to be the children of celebrities. The concept probably wasn't too much of a stretch for Joanna Philbin, given her own family background, but she handles it with such heart. More importantly, these books are about friendship and the universal struggle of figuring out your own identity, making them perfect for young women. It's all about those things you don't think will happen after high school that start taking shape right now. Visit Joanna Philbin's site to learn more about her work.

4. The Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell

Younger fans of Sex and the City have plenty to rejoice about with this prequel series. It features the Carrie Bradshaw we all know and love, but as a teenager navigating the 1980s. Whether you loved the original show or The Carrie Diaries TV adaptation, you’ll find something magical in these books about finding your place in a big world. It captures that early spark of ambition and style perfectly.

5. Magic in Manhattan by Sarah Mlynowski

These books are a bit of a hidden gem and were one of my favorite finds during my younger years. They follow Rachel Weinstein, who discovers that her family is full of witches and desperately hopes for her own powers. When she finally gets them, the results are hilarious and chaotic. If you’re a fan of Sabrina the Teenage Witch, you will absolutely adore this series. You can explore more of Sarah Mlynowski’s magical worlds on her website.

6. The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks

Almost everyone has seen the movie, but the book offers a different kind of emotional depth. As is often the case with adaptations, the book provides a closer look at the characters' inner lives. If you’re a fan of emotional storytelling, similar to the vibe of John Green's work, this classic romance is a must-read. It’s a beautiful exploration of enduring love that resonates at any age. Visit Nicholas Sparks' official site for more tear-jerkers.

7. All-American Girl by Meg Cabot

While Meg Cabot is legendary for The Princess Diaries, her other novels are equally fantastic. All-American Girl is a personal favorite. It revolves around Samantha Madison, whose life is flipped upside down after she accidentally saves the President’s life. Suddenly famous and navigating a potential romance with the President’s son, Sam is a relatable and witty protagonist. It’s a refreshing take on teenage fiction that stays with you long after the final page.

What were some of your favorite books to get lost in as a teenager? What stories would you recommend to young women today? Share your favorites in the comments below!