As March marks Women’s History Month in the US, we at IGN are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the remarkable women who make up our team. Last year, we shared our favorite games, movies, and TV shows; this year, we're turning our attention to another beloved pastime: reading. We asked the women of IGN to share their favorite women authors, a question that sparked a vibrant and diverse list of literary talents. Let's dive into the authors and comic artists celebrated by our team as we honor both the women of IGN and their cherished female authors!
Sharon Creech
Her stories beautifully capture the essence of love, grief, and the complexities of human existence. –Marhyan Franzen
Notable works: Walk Two Moons, Chasing Redbird
Sharon Creech### Walk Two Moons
In her distinctively poetic style, Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech masterfully intertwines two narratives—one humorous, the other poignant—into a heartwarming and profoundly moving tale of love, loss, and the intricate tapestry of human emotions. $9.99 save 30%$6.95 at AmazonSee it at AmazonKelly Sue DeConnick
Kelly Sue DeConnick has been a trailblazer in the predominantly male world of comics. Her work on Marvel's Captain Marvel transformed Carol Danvers into the iconic heroine we see today, a legacy that extended to the MCU with her credited as a consultant. Beyond the mainstream, her contributions to indie comics like Pretty Deadly and Bitch Planet showcase her versatility, from mystical westerns to dystopian feminist narratives. Her latest project, FML, from Dark Horse Comics, adds a supernatural twist to her repertoire. If you haven’t yet experienced her writing, you’re missing out on the work of an exceptional storyteller and an inspiring individual. –Chelsea Reed
Notable works: Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman Historia, Pretty Deadly, Bitch Planet, FML
Kelly Sue DeConnick### Captain Marvel
As Earth's Mightiest Hero, Captain Marvel is rightfully where she belongs. As she navigates a pivotal moment in her life, a critical choice propels her into the heart of an intergalactic conflict! $125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter
Sarah Rose Etter’s novels resonate deeply with those who embrace the unconventional. With only two novels to her name so far, both have been standout reads in their release years. The Book of X delves into the surreal life of a woman born into a family of meat farmers, while Ripe explores the haunting experience of working at a Silicon Valley startup. Etter’s ability to blend the bizarre with the relatable is truly captivating, and I eagerly anticipate many more of her unique stories. –Leanne Butkovic
Notable works: Ripe, The Book of X
Sarah Rose Etter### Ripe: A Novel
This surreal novel, praised for its "dark, delicious edge" by Time, follows a woman's journey in Silicon Valley as she grapples with the price of success. A must-read from the award-winning author Roxane Gay calls "utterly unique and remarkable." $18.00 save 12%$15.81 at AmazonSee it at AmazonIsabel Greenberg
I'm eagerly awaiting the film adaptation of this feminist medieval tale, especially with Charli XCX set to portray Rosa! –Kelly Pham
Notable works: The 100 Nights of Hero
Isabel Greenberg### The One Hundred Nights of Hero
Inspired by The Arabian Nights, this beautifully illustrated book weaves a tapestry of folk tales and myths, celebrating the secret legacy of female storytellers in a medieval world. $11.31 See it at AmazonN.K. Jemisin
If you haven’t yet been introduced to N.K. Jemisin’s The Broken Earth Trilogy, now is the perfect time. While her entire body of work deserves recognition, the trilogy, particularly The Obelisk Gate, is a standout. Jemisin’s innovative storytelling and magical systems are unparalleled. The Fifth Season may initially challenge with its narrative style, but the payoff is well worth it. Follow Essun as she searches for her husband who killed their son and abducted their daughter, all while navigating a world beset by cataclysmic events and concealing her earth-manipulating powers. A Hugo Award-winning masterpiece. –Miranda Sanchez
Notable works: The Broken Earth Trilogy (The Fifth Season), The City We Became
N.K Jemisin### The Broken Earth Trilogy: The Fifth Season, The Obelisk Gate, The Stone Sky
This collectible boxed set includes all three books in N.K. Jemisin's groundbreaking, New York Times bestselling, and three-time Hugo award-winning Broken Earth Trilogy. $49.99 save 45%$27.49 at AmazonSee it at AmazonT. Kingfisher
T. Kingfisher’s prolific output is astonishing, and her ability to refresh classic fairy tales and horror stories is a delight. Her work often ventures into gothic horror and dark fantasy, yet her humor and well-crafted characters provide a much-needed balance to the darker themes. From the eerie exploration of emotional abuse in "What Moves the Dead" to the enchanting Saint of Steel series, which delves into themes of identity and loss, Kingfisher’s stories leave a lasting impression. –MS
Notable works: Nettle & Bone, What Moves the Dead, Paladin's Grace
T. Kingfisher### What Moves the Dead
This atmospheric reimagining of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher” is a gripping tale from the Hugo, Locus, & Nebula award-winning author T. Kingfisher. $14.99 save 44%$8.46 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHan Kang
It might seem obvious to recommend a Nobel Prize winner for Literature, but Han Kang's acclaim is well-deserved. Her novel The Vegetarian, which hit English readers in 2015 after its initial release in South Korea, is a haunting exploration of a woman's decision to stop eating meat, leading to profound consequences. From Greek Lessons to Human Acts and We Do Not Part, Kang's works are both thematically rich and visually arresting. She is a true literary genius. –LB
Notable works: We Do Not Part, The Vegetarian, Human Acts, Greek Lessons
Han Kang### The Vegetarian
This critically acclaimed novel offers a dark allegory and Kafka-esque narrative about power, obsession, and one woman’s struggle to break free from internal and external violence. $18.00 save 17%$15.00 at AmazonSee it at AmazonYume Kitasei
Yume Kitasei is a rising star in the sci-fi genre, already on her way to her third novel. Her standalone stories are captivating, quickly building rich worlds and engaging narratives. Her debut, The Deep Sky, is a gripping murder mystery set on a tech-laden spaceship, while The Stardust Grail offers an exhilarating adventure reminiscent of Indiana Jones. I'm eagerly awaiting her next release this fall. –MS
Notable works: The Deep Sky, Stardust Grail
Yume Kitasei### The Deep Sky
Yume Kitasei’s debut is a thrilling sci-fi tale about a deep space mission that starts with a deadly explosion, leaving the crew to question their loyalty. $18.99 save 34%$12.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Carson Levine
Ideal for young readers venturing into fantasy, Gail Carson Levine's work is enchanting and inspiring. –MF
Notable works: Ella Enchanted
Gail Carson Levine### Ella Enchanted
This beloved Newbery Honor-winning story of a spirited heroine is sure to captivate both new and returning readers. $9.99 save 30%$6.99 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSarah J. Maas
Sarah J. Maas has redefined the fantasy romance genre with her intricate world-building and captivating storytelling. Best known for her A Court of Thorns and Roses series, which explores a young woman's journey in a magical realm among the Fae, Maas's work is detailed and immersive. Her debut series, Throne of Glass, and the newer Crescent City series, further showcase her talent for weaving epic tales with strong characters and thrilling twists. For fans of fantasy and romance, Maas's books are a must-read. –Jessie Wade
Notable works: A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, Crescent City
Sarah J. Maas### A Court of Thorns and Roses
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Sarah J. Maas comes a seductive blend of romance, adventure, and faerie lore that will leave you breathless. $19.00 save 42%$10.95 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSilvia Moreno-Garcia
Silvia Moreno-Garcia fearlessly explores various genres, from historical romance with a touch of fantasy in The Beautiful Ones to dark vampire tales in Certain Dark Things. Her work often delves into dark historical fantasy set in North America, particularly Mexico, offering a fresh perspective. Whether it's romance or horror, Moreno-Garcia's storytelling is compelling and deserves a spot on any bookshelf. –MS
Notable works: Mexican Gothic, Gods of Jade and Shadow, Silver Nitrate
Silvia Moreno-Garcia### Mexican Gothic
From the author of Gods of Jade and Shadow comes a chilling twist on classic gothic horror set in the glamour of 1950s Mexico. $17.00 save 43%$9.73 at AmazonSee it at AmazonErin Morgenstern
Erin Morgenstern’s novels, The Night Circus and The Starless Sea, are like stepping into a dream. Her works are so captivating that I buy them in hardcover and collect various editions. The Night Circus, a historical fantasy romance about two magicians destined to duel at a mysterious circus, is the perfect read to break out of a slump. The Starless Sea, a tale about stories themselves, transports you to an underground realm of narratives. Both are best enjoyed with a warm cup of tea. –MS
Notable works: The Night Circus, The Starless Sea
Erin Morgenstern### The Night Circus
This spellbinding novel, written in seductive prose, is a feast for the senses and the heart. $19.00 save 51%$9.33 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHelen Oyeyemi
The announcement of a new Helen Oyeyemi book fills me with excitement. Her unique voice defies categorization, offering fantastical yet non-fantasy narratives inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's folktales but transformed into something entirely new. Her novels, like Gingerbread, are whimsical yet profound, challenging the conventions of literary fiction. As Alexandra Kleeman noted in The Nation, reading Oyeyemi is like navigating a moving vehicle with a full cup of hot tea—thrilling and unpredictable. –LB
Notable works: Parasol Against the Axe, Gingerbread, Boy Snow Bird, Mr. Fox
Helen Oyeyemi### Mr. Fox
Helen Oyeyemi crafts a love story unlike any other in Mr. Fox, a magical tale that is as witty and charming as it is profound in its exploration of human relationships. $18.00 save 25%$13.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonLeomi Sadler
Tummy Bugs is a vibrant collection of Leomi Sadler's work over a decade, infused with bright colors and dark humor. –KP
Notable works: Tummy Bugs
Leomi Sadler### Tummy Bugs
This collection introduces and retrospects Leomi Sadler's energetic and personal cartooning style. $25.42 See it at AmazonSamantha Shannon
For fans eagerly awaiting George R.R. Martin’s next installment, Samantha Shannon's Roots of Chaos series offers a satisfying alternative. Starting with The Priory of the Orange Tree, this high fantasy series delivers rich characters, dragons, magic, and suspense in an 845-page journey. With prequels like A Day of Fallen Night and the upcoming Among the Burning Flowers, now is the perfect time to dive into this captivating world. –CR
Notable works: The Roots of Chaos series (The Priory of the Orange Tree), The Bone Season series
Samantha Shannon### The Priory of the Orange Tree (The Roots of Chaos)
In a world divided, a queendom without an heir faces an ancient enemy awakening. $10.92 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Simone
Gail Simone has been a powerhouse in comics, capturing the subtle yet powerful moments in superheroes’ lives. As the first solo female writer for Uncanny X-Men and a GLAAD award winner, her work is exceptional. You can pre-order her next release, set for August 5, on Amazon now. –MF
Notable works: Uncanny X-Men. You can pre-order the next release (August 5) on Amazon now.
Gail Simone### (Kindle Only) Uncanny X-Men
Witness a core group of essential X-Men rise FROM THE ASHES to face a world without a home - and without Professor X! $5.99 at AmazonSue Lynn Tan
Sue Lynn Tan's debut, Daughter of the Moon Goddess, beautifully expands the Chinese legend of the moon goddess. The subsequent Heart of the Sun Warrior continues the saga, offering romantic adventures steeped in Chinese mythology. Follow Xingyin, the hidden daughter of the exiled moon goddess, on her epic quest to free her mother. Tan’s storytelling, with its complex characters and romantic pacing, makes these novels standouts in the genre. –MS
Notable works: The Celestial Kingdom Duology (Daughter of the Moon Goddess), Immortal
Sue Lynn Tan### (Book 1 of 3) Daughter of the Moon Goddess
Inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess, Chang’e, this debut epic fantasy follows a young woman's quest to free her mother, set against a backdrop of captivating romance and mythology. $17.99 save 32%$12.18 at AmazonMorgan Vogel
Morgan Vogel's work is both visceral and intelligent, featuring striking illustrations that delve into the unsettling experience of being lost online or within oneself. –KP
Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle
Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy
With a stark and unsettling pen, Nightcore Energy explores a young man's attempt to escape alienation through technology, reflecting Morgan’s own experiences as a teenage web-artist. See it at Organ.FailJacqueline Wilson
Jacqueline Wilson's young adult novels tackle challenging topics like grief, substance abuse, and bullying. Growing up with her books provided solace during my own difficult times. Her characters resonated with me, offering a sense of companionship. Wilson's work has been recognized with numerous awards, including a Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire from King Charles III for her contributions to literature. –Meg Koepp
Notable works: "Girls" series, Think Again, The Illustrated Mum
Jacqueline Wilson### The Illustrated Mum
Marigold's daughter adores her beautiful mum but struggles with her spending and late nights, finding them scary. $21.31 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonRebecca Yarros
Rebecca Yarros's Empyrean series is a gripping adult fantasy romance that follows a young woman's journey to a war college for dragon riders. The series seamlessly blends violence, friendship, and romance, creating a compelling narrative. Yarros's characters face both physical and mental challenges, supported by themes of friendship and resilience. The romance enhances the plot without overshadowing it, and the unexpected twists keep readers engaged. The Empyrean series, now at three books with two more to come, is a must-read for fans of fantasy and dragons. –JW
Notable works: Empyrean Series (Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, and Onyx Storm)
Rebecca Yarros### (3 Book Set) Empyrean Series (Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, and Onyx Storm)
Immerse yourself in Rebecca Yarros's captivating fantasy series, featuring three stunning books: Fourth Wing, Iron Flame, and Onyx Storm. $91.29 See it at AmazonFor more, also check out Humble Bundle's great deals and specials this month for gamers and readers. Humble is partnering with CARE for Women’s History Month. When you purchase a Humble Choice membership this March, 5% of proceeds will support CARE’s programs.
Celebrate Women's History Month### Humble Heroines Bundle
Take charge as powerful protagonists including Seelah from Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous - Enhanced Edition, Jesse Faden from Control: Ultimate Edition, and Fury from Darksiders 3! See it at Humble Bundle
