Kate Chopin

Kate Chopin was an American author born on February 8, 1850, in St. Louis, Missouri. She is best known for her insightful and pioneering exploration of women's lives and identities in the late 19th century. Chopin's most famous work, "The Awakening," delves into themes of self-discovery and the pursuit of personal freedom, making her a key figure in early feminist literature. Her writing reflects the complexities of societal expectations and the inner struggles of women, often drawing from her own experiences as a wife and mother.

Chopin's literary career began in earnest after the death of her husband, when she turned to writing as a means of support and self-expression. Her stories are rich with vivid characterizations and set against the backdrop of the American South, capturing the nuances of both cultural and personal conflicts. If you're curious about her unique perspective and thought-provoking narratives, we invite you to explore her works in the app, where you can immerse yourself in the world she so beautifully created.

The Awakening

Read by LibriVox Volunteers


Kate Chopin



Owing to its highly personal content focused on feminine sexuality, this LibriVox edition was recorded by eight female readers. The Modern L…

The Awakening (version 2)

Read by Elizabeth Klett


Kate Chopin



Kate Chopin's 1899 novella The Awakening is about the personal, sexual, and artistic awakening of a young wife and mother, Edna Pontellier. …