By Womaness Editors 2-Minute Read
From celeb tales of Gen X icons to practical give-it-to-me-straight guides, these are our newest favorites for women in midlife.
1. Say Everything: A Memoir by Ione Skye
Yes, she’ll dish on starring in Say Anything with John Cusack and River’s Edge with Keanu Reeves, and ok sure, you’ll hear gossip on Anthony Kiedis, the Beastie Boys’ Adam Horowitz, and even Gwyneth Paltrow, but Gen X It Girl Ione Skye also talks aging, menopause, and navigating life now in her juicy, heartfelt memoir.
2. How to Menopause: Take Charge of Your Health, Reclaim Your Life, and Feel Even Better Than Before by Tamsen Fadel
Don't just endure menopause—master it! This journalist and menopause advocate offers a straightforward guide packed with practical tips, actionable steps, and evidence-based tools (hear, hear!) from 42 experts (think neuroscientists, meno-certified physicians, sex and relationship therapists, sleep doctors, and more).
3. Bloody Hell! Adventures in Menopause from Around the World edited by Mona Eltahawy
Explore an anthology of menopause stories from various voices representing different cultures and corners of the globe (including Womaness Woman Ann Marie McQueen). These 17 enlightening essays aim to break boundaries surrounding this once-taboo topic and provide both wisdom and a wider perspective on this rollercoaster-like stage of life.
Me.No.Pause.
4. Holy Menopause: Adventures of a Middle-Aged Superheroine by Bunny Gonopolskaya
A first-of-its-kind graphic novel, this story follows Mina, an overachieving, 50-something executive who’s crushing meetings and multitasking like a pro—yet is constantly underestimated and generally invisible to the men around her. That is, until she witnesses a child kidnapping and taps into a hidden parallel dimension of the middle-aged woman. With nothing but a Tide Pod, a thong, and a hefty dose of hot flashes, Mina’s transformed into a superheroine on a mission to save the kids, vanquish a mastermind seeking world domination, and reclaim the power she deserves.
5. Secrets of Adulthood by Gretchin Rubin
Renowned for her insights into happiness and human nature, The Happiness Project’s Gretchen Rubin delivers another gem with her newest book, which distills complex life lessons into simple truths, offering guidance and reflection that's perfect for navigating any midlife transition.
6. Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old: Thoughts on Aging As a Womanby Brooke Shields
With her characteristic charm and candor, the co-founder of Commence and legendary model of your childhood tackles aging, menopause, and still feeling comfortable in your skin. Her engaging read provides an intimate look at her journey (with plenty of inside scoop along with way), as well as actually relatable stories that’ll resonate deeply.
Let's Neck
7. Menopause Is Hot: Everything You Need to Know to Thrive by Mariella Frostrip and Alice Smellie
From dealing with sleep disturbances to revitalizing your sex life, these two British journalists offer a refreshing and candid look at the realities of menopause. Packed with expert advice and personal anecdotes, this book reassures that midlife can be steamy in more ways than one.
8. The Power Pause: How to Plan a Career Break After Kids—and Come Back Stronger Than Ever by Neha Ruch
This transformative guide by Neha Ruch redefines career breaks for women post-kids as a strategic step rather than a setback. The USA Today bestseller offers not only a blueprint for pausing and returning to the workforce, but also sparks a broader dialogue on women's roles in work and family life. It's an essential read for any woman looking to balance professional ambitions with personal growth.
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