The 4 Best New Feminist Nonfiction Books You Can’t Miss
As feminism is ever evolving and responding to global society, so is the feminist nonfiction literature that can remind us of the past struggles and victories, illuminate powerful voices and deepen our understanding. Each year, new books challenge our thinking, deepen our understanding, and inspire us to act. This list brings together five of the most impactful feminist nonfiction books of 2025. Be informed, be challenged, and get energized by today’s feminist conversations.
The New Age of Sexism by Laura Bates
Laura Bates, founder of the Everyday Sexism Project, returns with a searing and with her fresh take on modern misogyny. The New Age of Sexism exposes how old-fashioned sexism hasn’t disappeared – it has just adapted to the digital age in an insidious form. Bates dives into detail to document the rise of online hate campaigns, how they operate to the spread of misogynistic ideologies and the real-world significance pertaining to women’s safety and equality.
Why It’s a Must
With research and personal narratives combining for a compelling read, Bates expertly explains that while women are more empowered than ever, sexism hasn’t been extinguished – it has just morphed to fit the modernity of technology.
Marsha: The Joy and Defiance of Marsha P. Johnson by Tourmaline
Acclaimed filmmaker and activist Tourmaline delivers an enlightening and significant biography of Marsha P. Johnson with Marsha: The Joy and Defiance of Marsha P. Johnson. A transgender activist and key figure in the Stonewall uprising, Tourmaline explores beyond the mainstream narratives to accurately depict on Marsha’s personal life, focusing on her radical joy, creativity, and unwavering commitment to her community.
Why It’s a Must
Tourmaline’s powerful writing brings Marsha P. Johnson to life. The biography is a story of resilience, power, and a reminder that joy can be a profound act of defiance. It is essential reading for understanding the roots of the LGBTQ+ rights movement and the ongoing fight for liberation. Marsha’s life was not only about her activism – she was a joyous, caring and vibrant individual.
Authority: Essays by Andrea Long Chu
Pulitzer Prize winning author for her essay “On Liking Women”, Andrea Long Chu does it again with Authority. Bringing an academic expertise to artistic critique, Chu identifies the necessity of art as a vessel for social and political issues to be literally visualized and publicized.
Why It’s a Must
Championing fellow critics such as Maggie Nelson and Zadie Smith, Chu recognizes the power of today’s media platforms and the intersectionality of art, politics, social media and societal norms. With essays that are rooted in historical, cultural and personal experiences as a trans woman in modern day America, Chu challenges the “powers that be” when it comes to criticizing art and the dangerous implications that critique can have on society as a whole.
The Long Echo: Climate Justice and Women’s Rights by Gabriela Flores
Gabriela Flores takes on two of the most pressing issues of our time in her book The Long Echo: global warming and gender inequality. With a focus on women in the Global South, Flores illuminates how this demographic is disproportionately affected by climate change. Rather than a story of victimhood, the book is a powerful account of how women are leading the charge in their communities, developing innovative solutions, and fighting for a sustainable future. This book will fundamentally change how you think about environmentalism and its deep connection to feminism.
Why It’s a Must
These books offer knowledge, inspiration, and a sense of connection to a global movement. By engaging with these diverse voices, we can all play a part in shaping a more just and equal future.
Why These Year’s Books Matter
Feminist nonfiction in 2025 is more about the future than it is about the past. Authors are connecting the dots between historical struggles and present-day realities to educate the public about feminism and equality at large. The feminist nonfiction books on this list are more than just good reads—they are tools for change, conversation starters, and sources of profound inspiration.
