12 Female Characters Every Woman Should Know

Since I was a little girl, I have been an avid reader. My mom used to call me Belle because my nose was always buried in a book, and I would be completely unaware of the world around me. I read Nancy Drew, Little House on the Prairie, and Great Illustrated Classics. I owe so much of the woman I am today to the characters I met as a girl.

I am a firm believer in strong and independent women. And since Bella Swan is far too so-dependent, and there is something seriously wrong with Anastasia Steele, I decided to create a list of incredible female characters that every girl should know. 

So here they are:

1. Jane Eyre: Jane overcomes so many obstacles in her life, while standing her ground and remaining true to herself. 

2. Anne Shirley: Orphaned at a young age, Anne still has such a beautiful outlook on life and the world around her. She learns from her mistakes, chases her education, maintains her independence, and grows into a kind and beautiful woman. 

3. The March Sisters: Everyone who has read Little Women could tell you if they are a Meg, Joe, Beth, or Amy, and each of the sisters has their valuable qualities. Meg is kind and nurturing, Joe is strong willed and independent, Beth is selfless and Amy grows from a conceited little girl to an educated, caring young woman. As a whole, the March sisters hold their families above all else, and strive to make the best of things no matter what life throws their way. 

4. Sara Crewe: In A Little Princess, Sara remains hopeful after losing everything she has ever known. She is an amazing friend and goes out of her way to boost the spirits of others despite her own feelings. 

5. Nancy Drew: Nancy is fearless. She is strong, determined, and independent. Her books are timeless, and easy to read, making her a perfect role model for younger girls. 

6. Elizabeth Bennett: Obviously. Elizabeth is not afraid to speak her mind. She doesn't apologize for who she is, and she refuses to settle for less than she deserves. 

7. Laura Ingalls: As a little girl, Laura makes mistakes and learns from them. She is a kind and caring girl, but isn't afraid to get dirty and defend her family and friends. 

8. Scarlet O'Hara: Scarlet is tough. She is strong-willed and goes after what she wants. But the best part about Scarlet is they way that she survives. She falls from a plantation princess to a woman without two dimes to rub together. She does what she has to do in order for herself and her family to survive. 

9. Melanie Hamilton: The other incredible woman in Gone With the Wind. Melanie is so kind hearted, but she is also incredibly brave. She nurses sick and dying men, despite not knowing where her own husband is. She remains strong in difficult situations and constantly puts others before herself. 

10. Skeeter Phelan: In The Help, Skeeter stands up for what she believes is right even when it means losing those closest to her. She doesn't see color, she just sees people, and she isn't afraid to challenge the norm and do her part to make a change. 

11. Allie Hamilton: A lot of women on this list are strong and independent, but it is important to also believe in love. Allie follows her heart and finds a love that can conquer anything. And it's important to believe in that. 

12. Anne Frank: Duh. Her diary is something that everyone should read. It is amazing how hopeful and loving she remained throughout her time in hiding."Despite everything, I believe that people are really good at heart".