Women in Tech: The Ultimate List of 17 Game-Changing Books
Learning the personal stories of female innovators and programmers is inspiring. I've compiled this book list to illuminate the journey of women working in the technology industry—from computer science breakthroughs to leading artificial intelligence initiatives in New York tech companies.
Whether you're an entrepreneur in STEM, a programmer, a CTO, or commemorating Women's History Month with impactful books for women in tech, you're in the right place. Consider these selections to discover the inspiration you seek.
17 Best Women in Tech Books
I've thoughtfully selected 17 books that address the challenges and gaps women confront daily.
- Women in Tech by Tarah Wheeler
- Reset: My Fight for Inclusion and Lasting Change by Ellen Pao
- Brotopia: Breaking Up the Boys' Club of Silicon Valley by Emily Chang
- Girls Who Code: Learn to Code and Change the World by Reshma Saujani
- Women of Color in Tech by Susanne Tedrick
- Life in Code: A Personal History of Technology by Ellen Ullman
- How Smart Women Win in the New Economy by Magdalena Yesil
- The Code: Silicon Valley and the Remaking of America by Margaret O'Mara
- The Untold Story of the American Women Code Breakers of World War II by Liza Mundy
- Pivot: The Only Move That Matters Is Your Next One by Jenny Blake
- Innovating Women: The Changing Face of Technology by Vivek Wadhwa and Farai Chideya
- The Struggle for Gender Equality in Tech and Start-Up Culture by Elissa Shevinsky
- Geek Girl Rising by Heather Cabot and Samantha Parent Walravens
- The Athena Doctrine by John Gerzema and Michael D'Antonio
- Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg
- Unlocking the Secrets to Success, Sanity, and Happiness for the Female Entrepreneur by Cara Alwill
- Alpha Girls by Julian Guthrie
Overviews of the 17 Best Women in Tech Books
Here’s a quick summary of each book, what you’ll learn, and why you should read it, plus a quote I like from the book. I added the author’s LinkedIn and other places to connect with them online.
1. Women in Tech: Take Your Career to the Next Level with Practical Advice and Inspiring Stories by Tarah Wheeler, with a foreword by Esther Dyson
Summary:
This book provides practical advice for women at all stages of their tech careers. Drawing from her experience, Wheeler, with contributions from other successful women in tech, offers actionable strategies, stories, and insights to excel in this male-dominated industry.
What You'll Learn:
In this book, readers will understand how to navigate the tech landscape as a woman, tactics for promotions and salary negotiations, and ways to build an influential network within the tech community.
Why You Should Read It:
It's a must-read for women seeking motivation and practical advice to thrive in the tech industry.
Quote From The Book:
"We are here, we have always been here, and we are here to stay."
About The Author:
Tarah Wheeler is a key player in the tech community. Connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter, or visit her website.
2. Reset: My Fight for Inclusion and Lasting Change by Ellen Pao
Summary:
Ellen Pao’s memoir paints a vivid picture of her experiences in Silicon Valley, especially her lawsuit against venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins that spotlighted gender discrimination in tech.
What You'll Learn:
Readers will delve into the intricacies of challenges faced by women and people of color in tech, the ins and outs of the landmark case against Kleiner Perkins, and methods to ensure inclusion and combat workplace discrimination.
Why You Should Read It:
It's an eye-opening account of the fight for gender equality and the challenges women face in the tech sector.
Quote From The Book:
"The small decisions, they added up. The problem wasn’t just the number of seats at the table. It was who was at the table and who had voice."
About The Author:
Ellen Pao stands as a beacon for inclusion in the tech industry. Engage with her on LinkedIn and Twitter, or explore her website.
3. Brotopia: Breaking Up the Boys' Club of Silicon Valley by Emily Chang
Summary:
Emily Chang uncovers Silicon Valley’s exclusionary culture towards women. Through candid interviews, she highlights the systemic issues and offers a compelling call for industry change.
What You'll Learn:
This book elucidates how the bro culture of Silicon Valley evolved, recounts firsthand experiences of women subjected to biases, and provides insights on how to instigate positive changes in the industry.
Why You Should Read It:
It's a pivotal read to grasp the historical context of gender disparities in tech and the necessary steps to bring about change.
Quote From The Book:
"In Silicon Valley, it's never been about the things you make but the stories you tell."
About The Author:
Emily Chang is a renowned journalist examining tech's societal implications. Connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter, or check out her website.
4. Girls Who Code: Learn to Code and Change the World by Reshma Saujani
Summary:
Girls Who Code provides an invigorating entryway for young girls into coding. Reshma Saujani emphasizes the importance of closing the gender gap in technology and encourages girls to harness the power of coding to make a difference.
What You'll Learn:
Readers will grasp the foundational concepts of coding, discover stories of women trailblazers in technology, and gain insights into how they can utilize their coding skills for a positive impact.
Why You Should Read It:
It's an empowering guide that not only teaches coding but also instills confidence in young girls to pursue their tech dreams.
Quote From The Book:
"We need our girls to see themselves not just as users of technology but as inventors, designers, builders, and entrepreneurs."
About The Author:
Reshma Saujani is the founder of the Girls Who Code movement. Connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter, or visit her website.
5. Women of Color in Tech: A Blueprint for Inspiring and Mentoring the Next Generation of Technology Innovators by Susanne Tedrick
Summary:
This book delves into the experiences of women of color in the tech industry, providing guidance, mentorship, and strategies for success. Tedrick offers a holistic approach, integrating personal anecdotes with practical advice.
What You'll Learn:
Readers will gain an understanding of the barriers women of color face in tech, practical strategies for career advancement, and the importance of mentorship and community building.
Why You Should Read It:
This is a vital read for anyone seeking to understand the multifaceted challenges and triumphs of women of color in the tech sphere.
Quote From The Book:
"Your unique perspective, born out of your personal experiences, is your superpower."
About The Author:
Susanne Tedrick is a passionate advocate for diversity in tech. Engage with her on LinkedIn and Twitter, or explore her website.
6. Life in Code: A Personal History of Technology by Ellen Ullman
Summary:
Ullman's memoir offers a deeply personal exploration of her journey through the evolving world of technology. The narrative, spanning several decades, presents an intimate perspective of the digital revolution's inception and growth.
What You'll Learn:
This book provides readers with an intimate look at the early days of the tech industry, reflections on the human side of code, and insights into the ethical and societal implications of technological advancements.
Why You Should Read It:
For those intrigued by both the human and technical elements of the digital age, this memoir serves as a thought-provoking chronicle.
Quote From The Book:
"When we imagine a machine, we imagine the self we must become in order to match it."
About The Author:
Ellen Ullman is a former software engineer turned acclaimed writer. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
7. Power Up: How Smart Women Win in the New Economy by Magdalena Yesil
Summary:
"Power Up" is a testament to the resilience, ambition, and prowess of women in the digital age. Magdalena Yesil, a pioneering Silicon Valley investor, shares her insights and offers a roadmap for women to thrive in the evolving economic landscape.
What You'll Learn:
Dive into success stories of pioneering women, comprehend the nuances of capital investment, and master strategies to negotiate, take risks, and claim a deserved spot in the tech industry.
Why You Should Read It:
For any ambitious woman ready to take the tech world by storm, this book serves as both an inspiration and a manual.
Quote From The Book:
"Power isn’t given. It’s taken. Take yours."
About The Author:
Magdalena Yesil, a trailblazer in the tech investment sector, champions women's empowerment. Engage with her on social media accounts like LinkedIn and Twitter, or explore her website.
8. The Code: Silicon Valley and the Remaking of America by Margaret O'Mara
Summary:
In "The Code," O'Mara traces the history of Silicon Valley, its meteoric rise, and its profound influence on global dynamics. It's a comprehensive account of the people, politics, and technological breakthroughs that shaped this iconic region.
What You'll Learn:
Get an in-depth look into the origins of Silicon Valley, the power players who drove its success, and how its culture and innovations have reshaped the fabric of modern society.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're intrigued by the stories behind the tech headlines and wish to understand Silicon Valley's complex legacy, this book is indispensable.
Quote From The Book:
"The true legacy of Silicon Valley lies not just in what it creates but in what it destroys."
About The Author:
Margaret O'Mara is a historian who specializes in the tech industry and its broader impact. Connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter, or visit her website.
9. Code Girls: The Untold Story of the American Women Code Breakers of World War II by Liza Mundy
Summary:
Code Girls unveils the hidden narrative of the brilliant female cryptanalysts who played a crucial role during WWII. Mundy captures their tenacity, intelligence, and patriotism in this riveting account.
What You'll Learn:
Discover the untold stories of women codebreakers, their essential contributions to wartime intelligence, and the challenges they overcame in a male-dominated era.
Why You Should Read It:
For history buffs and tech enthusiasts alike, this book sheds light on a critical yet often overlooked chapter of American history.
Quote From The Book:
"These women’s paths never became as widely known or as well documented as their male counterparts'."
About The Author:
Liza Mundy is a journalist and author known for highlighting untold historical narratives. Engage with her on LinkedIn and Twitter, or explore her website.
10. Pivot: The Only Move That Matters Is Your Next One by Jenny Blake
Summary:
"Pivot" addresses the essential art of reinventing oneself in an ever-evolving professional landscape. Drawing on her experiences, Jenny Blake presents a methodical approach to navigating and thriving during significant career transitions.
What You'll Learn:
Master the techniques to pivot your career successfully, understand when to make a move, and harness a growth mindset for sustainable professional evolution.
Why You Should Read It:
For those feeling stagnant or seeking clarity in their career trajectory, "Pivot" is a beacon, guiding you to your next fulfilling endeavor.
Quote From The Book:
"If change is the only constant, then flexibility and adaptability are the only way forward."
About The Author:
Jenny Blake is a career strategist and coach dedicated to helping individuals find their path in today's dynamic workforce. Engage with her on LinkedIn and Twitter, or explore her website.
11. Innovating Women: The Changing Face of Technology by Vivek Wadhwa and Farai Chideya
Summary:
"Innovating Women" sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of women in technology. Combining research with powerful personal accounts, Wadhwa and Chideya spotlight the pioneers reshaping the tech industry.
What You'll Learn:
Discover the multifaceted experiences of women in tech, the barriers they encounter, and the innovative solutions they've formulated to overcome these challenges.
Why You Should Read It:
A must-read for those eager to understand the nuances of gender dynamics in tech and be inspired by trailblazing women reshaping the industry.
Quote From The Book:
"By sidelining women, we are sidelining innovation."
About The Author:
Vivek Wadhwa is a distinguished tech scholar, and Farai Chideya is an award-winning journalist. Engage with Vivek on LinkedIn or Twitter, and Farai on LinkedIn or Twitter.
12. Lean Out: The Struggle for Gender Equality in Tech and Start-Up Culture by Elissa Shevinsky
Summary:
Lean Out offers a counter-narrative to mainstream tech discourse, diving deep into the intricacies of gender inequality. Shevinsky collates voices from the trenches, painting an unfiltered picture of tech's culture.
What You'll Learn:
Unearth the underlying issues perpetuating gender disparity in tech and startup ecosystems and gain insights from those battling these biases on the front lines.
Why You Should Read It:
For an unvarnished look at the tech world's gender dynamics and a call to action for meaningful change.
Quote From The Book:
"Building the future is not a privilege. It is a responsibility."
About The Author:
Elissa Shevinsky is a seasoned tech entrepreneur and a fierce advocate for equality in the tech space. Engage with her on Twitter.
13. Geek Girl Rising: Inside the Sisterhood Shaking Up Tech by Heather Cabot and Samantha Parent Walravens
Summary:
Dive deep into the powerful sisterhood making waves in the tech world. Cabot and Walravens chronicle the stories of women in tech who are defying norms and driving innovation.
What You'll Learn:
Experience firsthand accounts of resilient women challenging the status quo and gather insights on how they influence technological advancements and cultural shifts.
Why You Should Read It:
For an uplifting, empowering read that underscores the importance of diversity and female representation in tech.
Quote From The Book:
"Innovation isn't gendered; opportunity shouldn't be either."
About The Author:
Heather Cabot and Samantha Parent Walravens are journalists passionately advocating for women in tech. Connect with Heather on LinkedIn and Twitter, and Samantha on LinkedIn and her website.
14. The Athena Doctrine: How Women (and the Men Who Think Like Them) Will Rule the Future by John Gerzema and Michael D'Antonio
Summary:
The Athena Doctrine postulates a future governed by feminine values and leadership styles. Drawing on global surveys, Gerzema and D'Antonio identify the qualities shaping our future.
What You'll Learn:
Understand how traditionally feminine qualities, like empathy and collaboration, are becoming pivotal for leadership and innovation.
Why You Should Read It:
To comprehend the transformative potential of embracing balanced leadership traits in today's dynamic world.
Quote From The Book:
"Feminine values are the operating system of the 21st century."
About The Author:
John Gerzema and Michael D'Antonio, both esteemed authors and researchers, explore socio-cultural shifts in leadership. Connect with John on LinkedIn or Twitter, and Michael on his website or Twitter account.
15. Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg
Summary:
Lean In is a clarion call to women across the globe, advocating for ambition and urging them to overcome societal barriers and internal hesitations to achieve leadership roles.
What You'll Learn:
Gain insights into the challenges women face in the professional realm, the societal structures that hold them back, and actionable strategies for pursuing leadership roles with confidence.
Why You Should Read It:
To embark on a transformative journey that challenges the status quo and offers a fresh perspective on women, work, and leadership in the 21st century.
Quote From The Book:
"In the future, there will be no female leaders. There will just be leaders."
About The Author:
Sheryl Sandberg was the COO of Facebook and a leading voice advocating for women's leadership in the workplace. Explore more works on her Amazon portfolio and connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter.
16. Girl Code: Unlocking the Secrets to Success, Sanity, and Happiness for the Female Entrepreneur by Cara Alwill
Summary:
Girl Code is a manifesto for modern women entrepreneurs, guiding them through the intricacies of building a successful personal brand while maintaining sanity and happiness.
What You'll Learn:
Grasp the tenets of successful entrepreneurship from a distinctly feminine perspective, focusing on collaboration, self-care, and authentic brand building.
Why You Should Read It:
For an empowering roadmap that not only steers you towards business success but also champions personal well-being and community support.
Quote From The Book:
"Success is not just about making money. It's about making a difference."
About The Author:
Cara Alwill is a best-selling author and master life coach, helping women worldwide curate their success stories. Engage with her on LinkedIn and Twitter, or explore her website.
17. Alpha Girls: The Women Upstarts Who Took On Silicon Valley's Male Culture and Made the Deals of a Lifetime by Julian Guthrie
Summary:
Alpha Girls is a gripping narrative of the fearless women who dove headfirst into the male-dominated realm of Silicon Valley, emerging as game-changing players.
What You'll Learn:
Delve into the riveting journeys of women who shattered Silicon Valley's glass ceilings, their challenges, strategies, and the colossal deals they forged.
Why You Should Read It:
For an adrenaline-charged tale of resilience, ambition, and triumph that gives a voice to the trailblazing women who have reshaped the tech world.
Quote From The Book:
"In the world of venture capital, the future is always up for grabs. And the grabbers are the ones with audacity."
About The Author:
Julian Guthrie is an award-winning journalist adept at telling the stories of underdogs turned champions. Connect with her on LinkedIn and Twitter, or visit her website.
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