I was sent these books for review purposes and all thoughts are my own. This post features affiliate links
In case you hadn’t noticed, I’ve become rather fond of feminist non-fiction over the last year or so, and I’m glad to see so many publishers targeting this genre at younger readers too (see my previous posts: books for feminists of all ages and more books for feminists of all ages). There are loads of fab biographies of ass-kicking women throughout history, and also some great new releases tackling intersectional feminism, including these two from Abrams Kids.
I can remember covering the work of Franklin D. Roosevelt during my school history days but we barely even touched on his wife. Ilene Cooper’s book Eleanor Roosevelt, Fighter for Justice: Her Impact on the Civil Rights Movement, the White House, and the World is a fascinating account of the life of the longest-serving First Lady.
Eleanor had a privileged life but she strongly advocated for those less fortunate, including the African American community. She supported the American Red Cross, Women’s Trade Union League, and the League of Women Voters, and also wrote newspaper columns and books, sharing her experiences traveling around the country, observing the effects of the New Deal programmes. She continued her activism long after her husband’s death; President Harry S. Truman appointed her to the United Nations, where she became chair of the Commission on Human Rights. Pretty impressive, right?
With so few role models in global politics at the moment (never mind the age-long gender battle), we could all do with thinking a bit more Eleanor.
One of my favourite books of the year is The (Other) F Word: A Celebration of the Fat & Fierce, edited by Angie Manfredi. Whilst targeted at teenage readers, it is a must-read for all ages.
This collection of personal essays, poetry and artwork centres on body image and body positivity in a relatable and empowering way, featuring the work of YA and middle-grade authors, as well as influencers and creators. It encourages fat acceptance – from fat individuals and fat shamers.
There’s something for everyone here, with pieces from writers and illustrators from all over the world, male, female, non-binary, queer, and disabled, looking at everything from pop culture stereotypes, fashion, and self-care, to confidence, prom, and nicknames, and plenty more in-between.
‘Fat’ has so many negative connotations. It’s time to embrace it and own it, challenging what society deems to be beautiful, successful, and acceptable.
Have you read any particularly empowering or inspiring books lately?