March Challenge: Stories of Women

The North Little Rock Public Library System continues its 2026 Digging Up the Past Challenge with March's theme: Stories of Women.

This month, we invite readers and viewers to explore narratives that celebrate the lives, achievements, and experiences of women throughout history and in contemporary times. Whether you choose biography, historical fiction, memoir, essays, or film, March's challenge offers an opportunity to discover powerful stories of resilience, ambition, and triumph.

What Is the NLRPLS 2026 Challenge?

The NLRPLS 2026 Challenge is a year-long program encouraging the community to explore a new theme each month through books and movies. Inspired by this year's overarching theme, Digging Up the Past, the challenge highlights stories that uncover history, illuminate lived experiences, and connect readers to meaningful narratives.

You can view the full list of 2026 challenge themes here: 👉 https://www.nlrlibrary.org/blogs/nlrpls-blog/2026-reading-challenge

Throughout the month, NLRPLS staff will share curated recommendations to help you find the perfect book or film.

March Theme: Stories of Women

For March, choose a book or movie that explores:

• Women's history and contributions to society
• Female pioneers, scientists, artists, and changemakers
• Stories centered on women's lives and experiences
• Memoirs and biographies by and about women
• Fiction highlighting women's strength, resilience, and complexity
• Documentaries or films focused on women's stories

Books and films both count toward the challenge.

How to Participate

1. Read a book or watch a movie that fits the theme Stories of Women.
2. Submit your entry form either in person at your favorite NLRPLS location or online at: https://www.cognitoforms.com/NLRlibrary1/ReadingChallenge
3. Participants may submit one entry per person, per month.

Monthly Prize and Grand Prize

Each month, one lucky participant will win a $50 gift card generously donated by Skinny J's in North Little Rock.

At the end of 2026, all monthly entries will be entered into a grand prize drawing to win an e-reader. The more months you participate, the more chances you have to win.

March Recommendations: Stories of Women

Looking for a place to start? Here are staff-selected books exploring women's history, achievement, and resilience. You can also find additional themed displays and recommendations in person at Laman Library and Argenta Library throughout the month.

Careless People by Sarah Wynn-Williams

A riveting exploration of the lives of a real couple caught up in a notorious 1920s murder case. Wynn-Williams masterfully weaves together the stories of two women at the heart of the scandal, examining ambition, love, and the price of notoriety in the Jazz Age.

Available on Libby as an audiobook and in person at NLRPLS locations.

Isola by Allegra Goodman

A compelling novel that brings to life the stories of extraordinary women navigating love, duty, and self-discovery across generations. Goodman's rich storytelling illuminates the complexity of women's choices and their profound impact on family and legacy.

Available in our stacks at Laman Library.

Olga Dies Dreaming by Xóchitl González

A vibrant and intimate novel following Olga Acosta, a successful wedding planner in New York, as she navigates family secrets, cultural identity, and the weight of her mother's unfulfilled dreams. González crafts a powerful story about Latina women, resilience, and the courage it takes to define your own path on your own terms.

Available at Laman Library.

The Tell by Amy Griffin

A gripping novel about a woman grappling with family secrets and personal awakening. Griffin explores themes of identity, belonging, and the courage it takes to reclaim one's own narrative in the face of hidden truths.

Available at Laman Library.

Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly

A brilliant nonfiction account of the Black women mathematicians who played a crucial role in NASA's space program. Shetterly brings to light the remarkable achievements of these overlooked pioneers and their essential contributions to American history.

Available at Laman Library.

Start Exploring

March's challenge is an invitation to celebrate and discover the extraordinary stories of women—past and present—through books and films available right here at the North Little Rock Public Library System.

Pick up a book, stream an audiobook, borrow a movie, and don't forget to submit your entry for a chance to win.

Happy reading and happy watching.