On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we recommend three autobiographical works that showcase a range of female experiences and offer anecdotal insights that serve as lessons for building a life well-lived.

Becoming by Michelle Obama

This worldwide bestseller offers an intimate glimpse into the life and mind of the former First Lady of the United States. Michelle Obama utilises her knack for storytelling to narrate the experiences that shaped her journey, which surprisingly resonates with that of many women across the world. With honesty and humour, she discusses her childhood, the balancing act of being a working mother, and her exceptional work as First Lady. Personal and riveting, this autobiography will leave you filled with hope and motivation.

Sach Kahun Toh by Neena Gupta

A masterclass in living life on your own terms, Sach Kahun Toh is a refreshingly candid overview of the unconventional personal and professional life of one of India’s most endearing public personas. Actor Neena Gupta takes the reader through an eventful journey spanning from a childhood spent in Central Delhi to breaking into Mumbai’s film industry, her decision of being a single parent, and her eventual rise to stardom; articulating the multiple trials and triumphs along the way with her signature wit and candour, in this delightfully readable memoir.

Educated by Tara Westover

Having never stepped foot in a classroom, Tara Westover escaped a survivalist family and embarked on a journey of intellectual expansion at the age of 16. This mesmerising account of her life deconstructs her relentless pursuit of knowledge, which ultimately resulted in earning a PhD from Cambridge University. A fascinating tale of a woman’s courage and her discovery of the transformative power of education, this memoir is inspirational for anyone who has contemplated the importance of self-determination.