Celebrating the Women Who Shape Our Stories
The incredible impact of women in storytelling and publishing
March is a time to celebrate the powerful voices, stories, and creativity of women across the world. From authors who create unforgettable characters to publishers who champion new voices and artists who breathe life into stories through illustration, women have played a vital role in shaping the literary landscape.
Let’s shine a light on some incredible women who have left their mark on storytelling and publishing today on International Women’s Month.
The Women Who Build Worlds
Many of the greatest literary worlds were imagined by women, tales of courage, magic, mystery, and rebellion that have stood the test of time. Think of Ursula K. Le Guin, who reshaped science fiction and fantasy with The Left Hand of Darkness, or Octavia Butler, who revolutionized speculative fiction with her thought-provoking, boundary-pushing narratives.
Today, authors like N.K. Jemisin, V.E. Schwab, and Madeline Miller continue to push the boundaries of storytelling, proving that women’s voices belong in every genre.
The Power of Women in Publishing
Beyond writing, women have been instrumental in publishing, shaping which stories reach readers. Virginia Woolf founded the Hogarth Press, which allowed her to publish her work and other groundbreaking literature, showing the world that sometimes, you have to carve your own path.
Before becoming a Nobel Prize-winning author, Toni Morrison worked as an editor at Random House, where she helped publish and amplify Black voices. Today, independent women-led publishing houses like She Writes Press and And Other Stories continue to uplift marginalized voices and perspectives.
Storytelling Beyond Books
Not all storytelling happens on the page. Women have been essential in film, television, and visual storytelling, from screenwriters and playwrights to illustrators and animators. Writers like Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag) and Ava DuVernay (When They See Us) have reshaped narratives in media, bringing fresh, bold perspectives.
And let’s not forget the countless female illustrators who give stories their striking visual presence, such as LeUyen Pham and Sana Takeda, whose work transforms books into immersive experiences.
Honoring the Women Who Inspire Us
This month, take time to celebrate the women storytellers who have inspired you. Read a book by a female author, support an independent women-led publisher, or share the work of female artists whose stories deserve the spotlight.
Who are the women in storytelling that have influenced you the most? Let’s celebrate them together! Drop their names in the comments and let’s build a list of must-read, must-watch, and must-support women creators.
Happy International Women’s Month!
Warm wishes,
Laura