While literature is replete with authors taking the traditional route and pitting their women characters against one another, or making them mere props to the adventures of their male protagonists, we also have books that center female friendships. There are many books, from diverse genres, that show how wholesome female friendships can thrive, not just as awesome twosomes, but also as boisterous groups. As a young reader, I loved these girl gang stories for their relatively accommodating attitude towards misfits. Now I appreciate the importance of these stories in countering patriarchal myths about relationships between women, thoroughly enjoy the diverse casts of female characters, and feel grateful for the warmth and solidity of the friendships of my girlfriends. In the spirit of Galentine’s Day, here are some of my favorite bookish girl gangs:
Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy
Mila, Riley, June, and Dayton
The Inhabitants of the May of Teck Club
I also asked my fellow Rioters about their favorite literary girl gangs, and here is what some of them had to say:
Esther, Bet, Leda, Amity, and Cye
Tessa, Beth, Anita, and the other Daughters of Harriet
Mel, Phoebe, Ali, Grace, Luci, and Kearson
Erin, MacKenzie, KJ, and Tiffany
For more books about female friendships, or last minute gift ideas for your Galentines, check out our Galentine’s Day archives! —Rachel Brittain —Rachel Brittain —Aurora Lydia Dominguez —Emily Wenstrom
