Celebrate women authors

The Guardian: 10 inspiring female writers you need to read 
Zadie Smith during a reading in Cologne, in 2014. Photograph: Rolf Vennenbernd/dpa/Corbis

This blog and all my work comprise a space welcoming and respectful of all women of all backgrounds, including transwomen, those who are nonbinary, and gender non-conforming. I see you. 🤩

I think Zahra would approve of this post.

“Let me make myself clear, Holland. I’m a firm believer that a rising tide lifts all boats, as they say,” Zahra says. “And I think you and Innovated can help each other get better, do better, be better. We need you. And I hope you can see how this will be mutually beneficial. We will pay you back in dividends not measurable in dollars alone. We lead as a team at Innovated. We will invest heavily in you, Holland.”

“Zahra, this is a heavy pitch coming from the CIO,” I start to argue.

“Actually.” She doesn’t exactly cut me off. “This is an impassioned plea from the only woman in the C-suite. I need you. And I think you and I can help each other. I’d love to work with you. Plus, I think we made pretty great progress toward a friendship today.”

“I love to hear you say that, Zahra.” I must be tired because I’m a little choked up. “I feel exactly the same way.” I haven’t made a new friend in so long. That must be what’s making me so emotional about this phone call.

I hope this little snippet of Holland, My Heart entices you. It’s full of girl power like this.

Note: This post was originally in support of a now-expired promo supporting indie authors who identify with the feminine experience. I found the Guardian article to share in its stead. Holy moly, some heavy hitters on this list! How many have you read? 💕