One strategic objective from Pioneer’s Board of Directors is to build diversity, equity and inclusion into our co-op’s storytelling. This post, our last installment of our yearlong Staff Bookshelf series, shares books our staff members are reading. We hope these recommendations provide interested Utility Pioneers with stories to offer new perspectives, deepen cultural understandings and spark conversations.

At Pioneer, we believe in the value of diverse storytellers. We also love books. Seriously. For some of us, it’s an obsession. 

By reading books from a variety of storytellers, we gain new perspectives, deepen our understanding of different cultures and spark conversations. During Women’s History Month, we asked our team of utility storytellers to share books they enjoyed, featuring the history and modern-day experiences of female storytellers.

1. “Becoming” by Michelle Obama

Recommended by Elaya

Michelle Obama’s memoir provides an intimate and insightful look into her life, from her childhood in Chicago to her experiences as the first lady of the United States. She shares her personal journey, reflecting on her challenges, triumphs and the values that have shaped her. The book explores themes of identity, family and the power of one’s voice to make a positive impact.

2. “The Calculating Stars” by Mary Robinette Kowal

Recommended by Megan

This alternate history, set in the 1960s, imagines the impact of a meteor strike accelerating climate change and threatening life on Earth. The story follows mathematician and pilot Elma York as she becomes a key figure in the space program, advocating for women’s inclusion. The novel explores themes of science, feminism and the determination to overcome obstacles in pursuit of a brighter future.

3. “The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance — What Women Should Know” by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman

Recommended by Elaya

What is confidence? The authors explore the factors that contribute to confidence and discuss how women can cultivate and embrace it in various aspects of their lives. Drawing on research and personal experiences, the authors offer insights and practical advice to empower women to unlock their full potential.

4. “Parable of the Sower” by Octavia E. Butler

Recommended by Misty and Megan

This science fiction novel is set in a dystopian future where society is in disarray. The protagonist, Lauren Olamina, possesses a unique ability to feel others’ pain and is determined to create a new faith called Earthseed. The novel explores themes of survival, community and the search for meaning in a world ravaged by chaos.

5. “I’m Glad my Mom Died” by Jeanette McCurdy

Recommended by Misty

This personal memoir from the “iCarly” and “Sam & Cat” star explores Jeanette McCurdy’s complex relationship with her mother and the emotional journey she undergoes after her mother’s death. Through raw and honest reflections, she navigates grief, self-discovery and healing, ultimately finding a way to make peace with the past.

6. “The Secret of Clouds” by Alyson Richman

Recommended by Elaya

This touching novel revolves around the relationship between a young Ukrainian immigrant with a heart condition named Katya and her dedicated teacher, Yuri. The story explores themes of love, loss and hope as their connection deepens, highlighting the transformative power of unexpected relationships and the resilience found in facing life’s challenges.

7. “Once and Future Witches” by Alix Harrow

Recommended by Megan

Suffragists, witchcraft and the power of community converge in this delightful tale. After all, what is magic but words, means and a strong will? This fictional story, set in late 19th century America, follows the Eastwood sisters as they rediscover magic and join the suffragist movement. In a world where magic was thought to be eradicated, the sisters navigate a society steeped in patriarchy, combining their magical abilities with the fight for women’s rights. The book weaves together themes of sisterhood, feminism and the enduring power of women’s stories, creating a captivating tale of magic and social change.

8. “Cilka’s Journey” by Heather Morris

Recommended by Stephanie

This historical fiction novel follows the character Cilka Klein, a survivor of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. After the war, she faces new challenges in a Soviet labor camp due to her association with the Nazis. Heather Morris explores themes of resilience, survival and the human capacity for hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.

What are you reading?

We’d love to know if you’ve read these stories, too, and if you have recommendations! Please share what you’re reading as a comment below.

Celebrate diverse storytellers.
Tell your story!