I created these pieces to celebrate literature by women* and its ability to reach across generations, inspire readers, and teach girls and women the lessons learned by our predecessors in the struggle for equal rights.

I love books and gain so much strength in reading from the perspectives of women who have imagined different worlds, articulated their lived experiences as members of marginalized, sometimes hated, groups, said funny stuff, and investigated the nature of our world in science, religion, politics and global culture and conflict.

I dream of a time that is beyond binaries, but in the mean time there is so much strength to be found in relating to the wisdom and stories of other women.

During this time that seems to be toxic masculinity manifested, I hope we can find our way back to what are generally considered ‘feminine’ qualities. Gentleness, an instinct to nurture, empathy, sensitivity, compassion, and a sense of submission in the form of duty may be falsely considered exclusively and essentially female, but they are part of every person. So now – when everything is out of balance favouring the fear, dominance and tribalism of the archetypal alpha male – this feels like a good time to learn from women.

* people who identify as female