Girl power is more than just a hashtag: it is a mantra that I endeavor to embody. And as an avid novel reader, a lot of the values that I have for myself come from the pages I find myself swept away by day after day. So here are just 10 of the many inspiring (but sadly fictional) women that we could all learn from.

1. Hermione Granger from "Harry Potter"

This one is a no-brainer. For her bookishness, ambition, and infallible ability to save her friends in a pinch, her determination is something that I wish I could have someday. While she was often criticized (especially in the earlier books) for her upfront attitude, she's truly a role model to us all.

2. Anne Shirley from "Anne of Green Gables"

Her unabashed imagination throughout the book, much to the chagrin of her sensible guardian Marilla, is a constant source of comfort to this heroine. Not only does Anne (with an E) have the ability to imagine her way out of any situation, but she also has the power of reflection, and can understand her extreme fortune in all things.

3. Rebecca from "Ivanhoe"

Though repeatedly scorned by every 'good' character throughout the novel of "Ivanhoe,"Rebecca does everything she can to save those she cares about. From healing Ivanhoe to protecting her father, Rebecca epitomizes what it means to be a heroine.

4. Athena from "The Witch of Portobello"

While shrouded in mystery and mystique, Athena recognizes her role in the universe and confidently embraces her mission to give women and people, in general, the ability to fulfill their potential. And as a bonus, she is a devoted mother who takes care of her son above herself.

5. Catherine Morland from "Northanger Abbey"

Like Anne Shirley, Catherine finds herself in possession of a tremendous imagination. And also like Avonlea's favorite redhead, her wild concoctions and preposterous fantasies get her into trouble. But what's great about Miss Morland isn't her imagination; it's her ability to admit that she's wrong and sincerely apologize for her actions without defensiveness and without excuses.

6. Taylor Greer from "The Bean Trees"

Taylor Greer is commendable because she isn't afraid to strike out on her own and do what's best for herself and little Turtle, who she picks up along the way. Taylor follows the twisting and turning trail of life with sincerity. And most of all, she understands that a family isn't made by blood, but by love.

7. Cecilia Tallis from "Atonement"

Cecilia epitomizes what it means to love boldly and fiercely. She has a strong moral compass that inspires her to stand up for the truth despite what her family says. She is loyal, devoted and consistent all throughout the novel.

8. Aza from "Turtles All the Way Down"

While a more unlikely heroine due to her quirks, Aza manages to overcome her crippling anxiety and struggle through her teenage years. It is difficult, and she faces many setbacks, but ultimately her resiliency and her perseverance despite these obstacles make her a good role model.

9. Anna Karenina from "Anna Karenina"

Though Anna's fate was certainly not a good one, she had the power and courage to face society head on and go after what she wanted, no matter the social chastisements.

10. Marjane Satrapi in "Persepolis"

While not a fictional woman, Marjane stays true to herself no matter the scary and volatile political and religious climate of the country she lives in. It is her willingness to commit small acts of rebellion in favor of pursuing the woman she wants to be that adds her to this list!

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There you have it! Each of these badass fictional (and nonfictional) ladies epitomize qualities that every modern woman should fight for. From confidence to courage, from loyalty to intelligence, these girls possess it all, and we "real" women have the ability to bring those traits to life, off the page.