Roseanne is the fun-loving, sarcastic hard-ass that America knows and loves. These books would definitely be on her bookshelf.

Blood Water Paint by Joy McCullough

Artemisia has two choices after her mother dies: work for her father grinding paint pigment or become a nun. She chooses paint. Though nobody knows her name, she becomes one of the most talented painters in 15th century Rome. In a man’s world, she must fight to share a woman’s truth through her work.

The Girl Who Fell from the Sky by Heidi W. Durrow

Rachel doesn’t know much about the grandmother she is going to live with after the tragic death of her entire family. She is by all standards a beautiful girl, a perfect mix of her Danish mother and black father. Her light complexion makes her stand out in her grandma’s predominantly black community where she must discover her new identity.

Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout

Olive Kitteridge lives on the edge of North America in a little place called Crosby, Maine. The retired schoolteacher hates the changes in her town and the world in general, but is often unable to recognize the changes in those around her. Seeing the world through Olive’s eyes offers an insight into the human condition and everything that comes with it.

Ruby by Cynthia Bond

Young Ruby Bell suffered unimaginably in her small hometown of Liberty, Texas. As soon as she can, she escapes to New York to look for her mother and try to find herself. When a telegram from her cousin forces her home, Ruby must face the past while fighting for the future.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson 

Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist whose reputation is in shambles after being trapped by libel convictions, is hired to investigate the disappearance of Harriet Vanger over forty years ago. He enlists the help of Lisbeth Salander, an unlikely prodigy, to help him solve the case.

Something About You by Julie James

Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron Lynde cannot believe her bad luck when a murder takes place in the hotel room next to hers. Now she is forced to work with special agent Jack Pallas to solve the case. But the two are sworn enemies after Lynde nearly ruined Pallas’s career. Can the two put aside their differences and the sexual tension between them to find the murderer?

Yes Please by Amy Poehler

In her first book, Amy Poehler delivers the comedy we have come to expect and love. She delves into her life with collections of stories, lists, poetry, photos, mantras and advice. If you need some inspiration, some laughs, or just want to get to know your dream BFF a little better, you will love Yes Please.

Redefining Realness by Janet Mock

Janet Mock grew up multiracial, poor and trans in an America that is often unforgiving to those in her position. She gives insight into the challenges and vulnerabilities that she faced being marginalized and extremely misunderstood and shares her push toward self-realization and acceptance.

(photo by Kathy Hutchins via shutterstock)