We often see stories of exploration focusing on men who survived against the odds. But where are the women? They are out there, doing it for themselves. Throughout history and all over the world, women have defied convention and set out on incredible journeys of exploration. Here are just a few biographies of fierce female explorers to enjoy.
The Discovery of Jeanne Baret: An engaging narrative of science, adventure, and discovery, following Jeanne Baret, the first woman to circumnavigate the globe.
West With the Night: If you liked Paula McClain’s “Circling the Sun,” dive into this lyrical autobiography of Beryl Markham, the first woman to fly the Atlantic from east to west.
Queen of the Mountaineers: An engaging biography with a strong sense of place, following the amazing life of Fanny Bullock Workman, a woman who broke boundaries and frontiers for women everywhere.
Ada Blackjack: A bleak and compelling biography of Ada Blackjack’s struggle for survival as part of an ill-fated exploration in the Arctic.
Women of Discovery: Can’t decide on just one woman to read about? You don’t have to! Turn to this book profiling 80 women who explored the unknown with courage and determination.
Men often overshadow the tales of female explorers, so I love digging deep to find these important and inspiring women. Who is your favorite female explorer?
