Best Women in History Books of 2026

The Story of Art Without Men is a groundbreaking book that provides a new perspective on the history of art, from the Renaissance to the present day, by showcasing more than 300 works of art created exclusively by women. Katy Hessel, an art historian and founder of @thegreatwomenartists, guides readers through the glittering paintings of Sofonisba Anguissola during the Renaissance, the radical work of Harriet Powers in the nineteenth-century United States, and the women defining art in the 2020s. This book is an inspiring and indispensable addition to the history of art by women, and it is a must-read for anyone interested in challenging the traditional narratives of art history.

In Order to Live is a powerful memoir that sheds light on the hardships of life in North Korea. Yeonmi Park's story of perseverance and determination is both heartbreaking and inspiring. She not only shares the horrific experiences she and her mother endured while escaping to South Korea, but also her ongoing efforts as a human rights activist to bring attention to the oppression in her home country. This memoir is a must-read for anyone seeking to better understand the realities of life in North Korea and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank is a powerful and moving account of a young Jewish girl's life during the Nazi occupation of Holland. Anne and her family lived in hiding for two years, until they were betrayed and captured by the Gestapo. Through her diary, Anne offers a unique perspective on the horrors of war, human courage, and the frailty of the human spirit. The new edition of the book reveals even more depth to Anne's dreams, hardships, and passions. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in history, women's biographies, and human resilience.

The Watchmaker's Daughter by Larry Loftis is a compelling biography of Corrie ten Boom, a Dutch watchmaker who saved the lives of hundreds of Jews during World War II by turning her family's house into a hiding place for refugees. Despite losing most of her family and being sent to a concentration camp, Corrie managed to survive, forgive her captors and live the rest of her life as a Christian missionary. The book is a remarkable journey of faith and forgiveness, and it holds myriad lessons for readers today. This book is highly recommended for those interested in women's biographies and World War II nonfiction.

The NKJV Value Thinline Bible, Large Print, Leathersoft, Charcoal, Red Letter Edition is perfect for those who want to carry their Bible with them throughout the day. It is lightweight, portable, and features Thomas Nelson's custom NKJV font in large print, making it easy to read. The Bible also includes a helpful reading plan, words of Christ in red, and full-color maps. The ribbon marker makes it easy to keep track of where you left off. The 10.5-point print size is ideal for those who need larger text. Overall, this Bible is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a portable and easy-to-read Bible.

The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom is a riveting account of a Dutch watchmaker who became a Resistance heroine, a survivor of Hitler's concentration camps, and one of the most remarkable evangelists of the twentieth century. In World War II, Corrie and her family risked their lives to help Jews and underground workers escape from the Nazis, and for their work, they were tested in the infamous Nazi death camps. The book is a classic that continues to declare that God's love will overcome, heal, and restore. It is a must-read for those seeking inspiration and courage in the face of adversity.

The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius is a classic work of Stoic philosophy, filled with spiritual reflections and exercises that have inspired readers for almost two thousand years. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the nature of virtue to the values of leadership, and provides practical guidance for living a fulfilling life. This Penguin Classics edition includes explanatory notes, indexes, and an introduction by Diskin Clay, providing readers with a full understanding of Aurelius's seminal work. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy and personal growth.

The Ride of Her Life: The True Story of a Woman, Her Horse, and Their Last-Chance Journey Across America by Elizabeth Letts is a captivating biographical account of a 63-year-old woman named Annie Wilkins who sets out on a journey to see the Pacific Ocean before she dies. With little money and no family, Annie embarks on this impossible journey with her ex-racehorse Tarzan and her faithful dog Depeche Toi. The book is a testament to the human spirit and the kindness of strangers. The author's vivid portrayal of Annie's journey makes it an enjoyable read from start to finish.

Tell Her Story by Nijay Gupta sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of women in the early Christian church. Gupta explores the lives and roles of women in the first-century church, addressing common misconceptions and highlighting the major roles of women leaders, such as Phoebe, Prisca, Junia, and Nympha. Gupta's analysis of Scripture's context, culture, and history reveals that women were active participants and trusted leaders in the early church. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the true history of women in the church.

The King James Study Bible, Full Color Edition is an outstanding resource for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the Bible. With over half-a-million words of commentary, study aids, and archaeological insights, this Bible provides a comprehensive study experience. The full-color design, Holy Land images, and classic works of art make it a visually stunning addition to any collection. The book introductions, outlines, and study notes provide important background information and content overviews. This is a must-have for anyone seeking to grow in their biblical knowledge.