March is designated as Women’s History Month; It’s a time to celebrate the contributions of women to America’s history, their accomplishments and how they have impacted society. In honor of this celebration of women, I’ve picked a movie, book and album that are created by women and feature empowering stories, but also capture the essence of the upcoming spring season.
I not only chose entertainment about women, but also made by women. Within all of these entertainment picks, there is a rich history embedded in them, whether that be from breaking records or leaving a mark on the world.
If you're wondering what to watch, read or listen to, here are my movie, book and album recommendations for this March.
Movie of the month: “On the Basis of Sex” (2018)
My rating: 4/5
Mimi Leder’s “On the Basis of Sex” tells the powerful story of the late associate justice of the Supreme Court, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and her early days of fighting for gender equality in the law. Through this courtroom drama, Leder portrays the adversities Ginsburg faced at the start of her career and in her early law cases.
The film primarily focuses on her case, Moritz v. Commissioner, where she represented Charles Moritz on the stance that he was being discriminated against because of his gender. By taking this case, which demonstrated how sex-based discrimination violates the Constitution, she was able to show the Supreme Court that stereotypes in the law harmed both men and women. This case was the start of Ginsburg’s long crusade against discrimination on the basis of sex.
This movie is not only inspiring but also empowering to watch a woman who had to deal with so much discrimination and challenges overcome them all and, eventually, become an associate justice of the Supreme Court. Felicity Jones’s performance as the historical figure is sure to leave you feeling more inspired than before.
Book of the month: “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott
My rating: 5/5
Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel about the lives of four sisters has only grown more beloved over the years. With new film and TV show adaptations every few years, the story is still as impactful in new generations as it was on the day it released. The first part, published in 1868, was an immediate hit and sold over 2,000 copies in its first two weeks, and the other half was published in 1869, which was also bought up quickly. The full book, officially bound in 1880, is still being read and discussed.
The book itself is an enduring tale of the lives, dreams and trials of the March sisters: Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy. The characters feel real, each one with their own aspirations and outlook on life. Each of the different women has different paths and dreams in their lives, such as Jo wanting to become a writer, Meg wishing for connection, while Beth is fine with being comfortable in her current life but Amy would like to be the greatest artist in the world.
The sisterly bond at the heart of the novel ties it all together and makes this a perfect heart-warming and touching read for the spring.
Album of the month: “Whitney” by Whitney Houston
My rating: 4/5
Whitney Houston’s second album is not only one packed with good music, but it also made history. It was the first album by a female artist to debut at the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 list. It stayed there for 11 consecutive weeks, and four of the songs became number one hits as well.
The 1987 album features arguably Houston’s most famous song, “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me),” and other hits like “Didn’t We Almost Have It All,” “So Emotional” and “Where Do Broken Hearts Go.” Her incredible powerhouse vocals mix well with the dreamy, upbeat sounds featured in each song.
These upbeat '80s pop songs are perfect for taking an outdoor walk and enjoying the springtime weather of March.
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Katelyn Smith, sophomore majoring in journalism, is from Birmingham, Alabama. She has been with The Auburn Plainsman since the fall of 2025. Smith previously served as a lifestyle writer, and she is currently serving as the Lifestyle Editor.
