The Most Thought-Provoking Nonfiction Feminist Books

1. "The Second Sex" by Simone de Beauvoir - Originally published in 1949, this book is considered one of the most important works of feminist philosophy of the 20th century. The author, Simone de Beauvoir, examines the ways in which women are oppressed by society and how this oppression is perpetuated. The book provides a thought-provoking examination of the role of gender in society and the ways in which women can assert their agency and autonomy.

2. "Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches" by Audre Lorde - Originally published in 1984, this collection of essays and speeches by the renowned feminist, lesbian, and civil rights activist Audre Lorde is a powerful examination of the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. Lorde provides a thought-provoking examination of the ways in which these identities intersect and the ways in which these intersections shape experiences of oppression and resistance.

3. "A Room of One's Own" by Virginia Woolf - Originally published in 1929, this book is a powerful examination of the ways in which women's creativity and artistic expression have been suppressed throughout history. Woolf provides a thought-provoking examination of the ways in which societal gender norms and expectations have restricted women's access to education and resources, and the ways in which this has limited their ability to produce creative work.

4. "This Bridge Called My Back: Writings by Radical Women of Color" edited by Cherríe Moraga and Gloria Anzaldúa - Originally published in 1981, this anthology includes a wide range of essays, poetry, and artwork by feminists of color. The book provides a thought-provoking examination of the ways in which race, gender, and sexuality intersect to shape experiences of oppression and resistance.

5. "The Argonauts" by Maggie Nelson - Originally published in 2015, this book is a thought-provoking and deeply personal examination of the ways in which gender, sexuality, and family are constructed and experienced. The author, Maggie Nelson, provides an intimate and nuanced examination of her own experiences as a parent, a partner, and a queer woman, and the ways in which these identities intersect and shape her life.