As March marks Women’s History Month in the US, we at IGN wanted to shine a spotlight on the incredible 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 passion: reading. We asked the women of IGN about their favorite female authors, and the responses we received were as diverse and compelling as the stories these authors tell. Let's delve into the list of authors and comic artists that our team cherishes, celebrating not only the women of IGN but also the remarkable women authors they admire!
Sharon Creech
Sharon Creech's storytelling, which explores themes of love, grief, and the complexities of human existence, is truly exceptional. Her work, including "Walk Two Moons" and "Chasing Redbird," resonates deeply with readers, offering both humor and heartache in equal measure.
Sharon Creech### Walk Two Moons
1In her unique and beautiful style, Newbery Medal winner Sharon Creech masterfully intertwines two narratives—one humorous, the other poignant—to craft a touching and compelling 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 comic industry, challenging the status quo of the "boys club." Her contributions to Marvel, such as redefining Captain Marvel with Carol Danvers, have left a lasting impact, influencing the MCU. Beyond the mainstream, her indie works like "Pretty Deadly" and "Bitch Planet" showcase her versatility, while her ongoing project, "FML," explores supernatural themes. DeConnick's talent and humanity shine through her writing, making her an essential read.
Notable works: Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman Historia, Pretty Deadly, Bitch Planet, FML
Kelly Sue DeConnick### Captain Marvel
1As Earth's Mightiest Hero, Captain Marvel rightfully claims her place among the stars. Her journey takes a dramatic turn, propelling her into the heart of an intergalactic conflict!$125.00 save 46%$68.02 at AmazonSarah Rose Etter
Sarah Rose Etter's novels, though few in number, are profoundly impactful. Her surreal storytelling in "The Book of X" and "Ripe" speaks to the weird and wonderful, offering readers a unique perspective on life's complexities. Etter's ability to weave the bizarre with the deeply relatable makes her a must-read for those seeking something truly distinctive.
Notable works: Ripe, The Book of X
Sarah Rose Etter### Ripe: A Novel
1A surreal novel with "a dark, delicious edge" (Time) that delves into the life of a woman navigating the cutthroat world of Silicon Valley, challenging readers to consider the price of success.$18.00 save 12%$15.81 at AmazonSee it at AmazonIsabel Greenberg
The anticipation for the film adaptation of Isabel Greenberg's "The 100 Nights of Hero" is palpable, especially with Charli XCX set to portray Rosa. Greenberg's work beautifully weaves folk tales and myths, celebrating the legacy of female storytellers in a richly imagined medieval world.
Notable works: The 100 Nights of Hero
Isabel Greenberg### The One Hundred Nights of Hero
1In the spirit of The Arabian Nights, this beautifully illustrated collection of tales honors the secret legacy of female storytellers within a vibrant, medieval universe.$11.31 See it at AmazonN.K. Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin's "The Broken Earth Trilogy" is a masterpiece of speculative fiction that has garnered widespread acclaim, including multiple Hugo Awards. Her captivating storytelling, complex characters, and innovative magic system, particularly in "The Obelisk Gate," make this series a standout. Jemisin's daring narrative structure in "The Fifth Season" might challenge readers at first, but the reward is well worth it. Following Essun's quest for justice amidst apocalyptic turmoil, Jemisin's work is a must-read for any fantasy enthusiast.
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
1This collectible boxed set includes all three volumes of N.K. Jemisin's groundbreaking and award-winning Broken Earth Trilogy, a must-have for fans of epic fantasy.$49.99 save 45%$27.49 at AmazonSee it at AmazonT. Kingfisher
T. Kingfisher's prolific output never ceases to amaze, especially for fans of reimagined fairy tales and horror. Her work often delves into gothic horror and dark fantasy, yet her stories are infused with humor and well-crafted characters that balance the heavier themes. From the eerie exploration of emotional abuse in "What Moves the Dead" to the enchanting Saint of Steel series, Kingfisher's narratives are both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Notable works: Nettle & Bone, What Moves the Dead, Paladin's Grace
T. Kingfisher### What Moves the Dead
1A chilling reinterpretation of Edgar Allan Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher," this novel by the award-winning T. Kingfisher is a haunting blend of atmosphere and suspense.$14.99 save 44%$8.46 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHan Kang
Han Kang, a Nobel Prize laureate, captivates readers with her profound narratives. Her breakout novel, "The Vegetarian," explores the unsettling journey of a woman who rejects meat and ultimately all food, drawing readers into a world of obsession and transformation. Kang's subsequent works, such as "Human Acts" and "Greek Lessons," continue to impress with their thematic depth and emotional resonance.
Notable works: We Do Not Part, The Vegetarian, Human Acts, Greek Lessons
Han Kang### The Vegetarian
1A darkly allegorical novel celebrated worldwide, "The Vegetarian" delves into themes of power, obsession, and one woman's quest for liberation from societal constraints.$18.00 save 17%$15.00 at AmazonSee it at AmazonYume Kitasei
Yume Kitasei's fresh voice in sci-fi is already making waves with her quick-paced, world-building narratives. Her debut, "The Deep Sky," offers a gripping murder mystery set in space, while "The Stardust Grail" takes readers on an Indiana Jones-esque adventure. Kitasei's imaginative storytelling promises even more excitement in her upcoming works.
Notable works: The Deep Sky, Stardust Grail
Yume Kitasei### The Deep Sky
1A thrilling sci-fi debut, "The Deep Sky" by Yume Kitasei is a suspenseful tale of a space mission turned deadly, challenging the survivors to unravel the mystery and trust among the crew.$18.99 save 34%$12.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Carson Levine
For young readers venturing into the world of fantasy, Gail Carson Levine's "Ella Enchanted" is a delightful introduction. This Newbery Honor-winning tale of a spirited heroine is sure to captivate and inspire.
Gail Carson Levine### Ella Enchanted
1A timeless story of magic and courage, "Ella Enchanted" is perfect for enchanting readers of all ages with its charming narrative and beloved heroine.$9.99 save 30%$6.99 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSarah J. Maas
Sarah J. Maas reigns supreme in the fantasy romance genre, crafting worlds and stories that are as detailed as they are captivating. Her "A Court of Thorns and Roses" series is a testament to her ability to weave intricate plots and compelling characters, while her "Throne of Glass" and "Crescent City" series further showcase her talent for epic storytelling and romantic intrigue.
Notable works: A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, Crescent City
Sarah J. Mass### A Court of Thorns and Roses
0A seductive and adventurous tale that merges romance and faerie lore, Sarah J. Maas's "A Court of Thorns and Roses" is a must-read for fans of fantasy and romance.$19.00 save 42%$10.95 at AmazonSee it at AmazonSilvia Moreno-Garcia
Silvia Moreno-Garcia's versatility knows no bounds, seamlessly blending genres from historical romance to dark fantasy. Her novels, set primarily in North America and often in Mexico, bring fresh perspectives to familiar themes. Whether it's the haunting "Mexican Gothic" or the enchanting "Gods of Jade and Shadow," Moreno-Garcia's work is a testament to her storytelling prowess.
Notable works: Mexican Gothic, Gods of Jade and Shadow, Silver Nitrate
Silvia Moreno-Garcia### Mexican Gothic
1Set against the backdrop of 1950s Mexico, "Mexican Gothic" is a chilling tale that reimagines classic gothic horror with a thrilling twist.$17.00 save 43%$9.73 at AmazonSee it at AmazonErin Morgenstern
Erin Morgenstern's novels, "The Night Circus" and "The Starless Sea," are enchanting journeys that feel like stepping into a dream. Her lush prose and intricate storytelling make her books instant favorites, perfect for readers seeking a magical escape.
Notable works: The Night Circus, The Starless Sea
Erin Morgenstern### The Night Circus
1A spellbinding novel that weaves romance and magic into a captivating tale, "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern is a feast for the senses.$19.00 save 51%$9.33 at AmazonSee it at AmazonHelen Oyeyemi
Helen Oyeyemi's novels are a whirlwind of fantastical elements and literary innovation. Inspired by folktales yet distinctly original, her works like "Gingerbread" and "Mr. Fox" defy traditional genres, offering readers a thrilling and disorienting experience that is uniquely Oyeyemi.
Notable works: Parasol Against the Axe, Gingerbread, Boy Snow Bird, Mr. Fox
Helen Oyeyemi### Mr. Fox
1A magical and inventive love story, Helen Oyeyemi's "Mr. Fox" challenges and delights with its profound insights into relationships and storytelling.$18.00 save 25%$13.59 at AmazonSee it at AmazonLeomi Sadler
Leomi Sadler's "Tummy Bugs" is a vibrant collection that spans over a decade of her work, blending bright colors with dark humor to create a deeply personal and engaging read.
Notable works: Tummy Bugs
Leomi Sadler### Tummy Bugs
1A retrospective and introduction to Leomi Sadler's dynamic cartooning, "Tummy Bugs" is a must-see for fans of graphic storytelling.$25.42 See it at AmazonSamantha Shannon
For fans of high fantasy, Samantha Shannon's "The Roots of Chaos" series, starting with "The Priory of the Orange Tree," is a thrilling saga filled with dragons, magic, and epic twists. Her work offers a rich and immersive world that is perfect for those seeking a new series to dive into.
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)
1An epic tale of a divided world, a queendom without an heir, and the awakening of an ancient enemy, "The Priory of the Orange Tree" is a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts.$10.92 See it at AmazonSee it at AmazonGail Simone
Gail Simone's contributions to the world of comics are unparalleled, with her work on "Uncanny X-Men" earning her GLAAD awards and the distinction of being the first female solo writer for the series. Her ability to capture the quiet, powerful moments in superheroes' lives makes her a standout in the industry.
Notable works: Uncanny X-Men. You can pre-order the next release (August 5) on Amazon now.
Gail Simone### (Kindle Only) Uncanny X-Men
2A 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 "Daughter of the Moon Goddess" and its sequel "Heart of the Sun Warrior" are enchanting reimaginings of Chinese mythology. These novels offer a romantic adventure that is both thrilling and deeply rooted in cultural lore, making them standouts in the fantasy genre.
Notable works: The Celestial Kingdom Duology (Daughter of the Moon Goddess), Immortal
Sue Lynn Tan### (Book 1 of 3) Daughter of the Moon Goddess
1Inspired by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess, Chang'e, "Daughter of the Moon Goddess" is a captivating and romantic epic fantasy that weaves mythology with adventure.$17.99 save 32%$12.18 at AmazonMorgan Vogel
Morgan Vogel's work is a striking blend of visceral storytelling and intelligent commentary, beautifully illustrated yet unsettling. Her pieces, such as "Nightcore Energy" and "Valle," explore themes of alienation and immersion in technology, resonating deeply with readers.
Notable works: Nightcore Energy, Valle
Morgan Vogel### Nightcore Energy
1With a haunting pen, "Nightcore Energy" by Morgan Vogel delves into the life of a young man seeking escape through technology, reflecting the artist's own experiences.$25.42 See it at Organ.FailJacqueline Wilson
Jacqueline Wilson's young adult novels tackle tough subjects like grief, substance abuse, and bullying with sensitivity and insight. Her work, including the "Girls" series and "The Illustrated Mum," has provided solace and understanding to many readers, earning her prestigious awards and recognition.
Notable works: "Girls" series, Think Again, The Illustrated Mum
Jacqueline Wilson### The Illustrated Mum
2A poignant story of a daughter's love and concern for her mother, "The Illustrated Mum" by Jacqueline Wilson is a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics and challenges.$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 through a war college for dragon riders. The series masterfully balances intense action with deep character development and a compelling romance, making it a standout in the genre.
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)
1Dive into the thrilling world of dragons and war with Rebecca Yarros's "Empyrean" series, a must-read for fans of fantasy and romance.$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
0Take 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