Books matching: systemic sexism
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Powerful, passionate, and deeply researched, Everything Below the Waist is a wake-up call for anyone who cares about women’s health. Not always easy to read, but absolutely necessary.
Everything Below the Waist: Why Health Care Needs a Feminist Revolution by Jennifer Block is a thorough investigation of women's healthcare, shedding light on the brokenness of the current healthcare system and the pathologizing of natural body processes. Block delves into topics such as birth control, fertility, routine gynecological exams, and more, examining the historical evolution of practices over the last century. The book is praised for its engaging writing style, powerful arguments, and the way it weaves statistics and stories together to paint a vivid picture of the feminist vision for modern healthcare.
THE FIRST SYMPOSIUM of the Uterine Cervix was organized by a young, male scientist on January 25, 1958, at the University of Malmo, in Sweden. Erik Odeblad had graduated medical school and held a PhD...July 2019•319 pagesA must-read, data-packed wake-up call about how society is designed with men as the default. Sometimes repetitive or narrowly focused, but essential for understanding - and challenging - systemic gender bias. Bring your highlighter (and possibly a stress ball).
'Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men' by Caroline Criado Perez delves into the various ways in which women are overlooked and underrepresented in different aspects of society, from public infrastructure to medical research. The book uncovers the gender data gap, highlighting how this lack of comprehensive information on women leads to dangerous situations and perpetuates inequality. Criado Perez presents a compelling argument on how the world is designed with men as the default human, ultimately making women invisible in decision-making processes and everyday life.
The writing style of 'Invisible Women' is described as academic yet engaging, with the author presenting a thorough analysis of studies from around the world to showcase the impact of unexamined biases on women's lives. Through statistics and anecdotes, Criado Perez builds a compelling narrative that not only educates readers on the disparities faced by women but also advocates for tools like Gender Bias Analysis Plus to address these deficiencies and promote equality.
It all started with a joke. It was 2011 and officials in the town of Karlskoga, in Sweden, were being hit with a gender-equality initiative that meant they had to re-evaluate all their policies throug...March 2019•430 pages- #3
A witty, vibrant debut that mixes humor and heart with pointed social critique - wildly entertaining for many, but its broad strokes and stylized storytelling won't be everyone's cup of tea.
'Lessons in Chemistry' by Bonnie Garmus is a comedic novel set in the 1950s, following the story of Elizabeth Zott, a chemist whose ambitions are constantly thwarted. The book features quirky characters, such as Elizabeth's precocious daughter, a supportive neighbor, and a few good men, who help create a new style of family and challenge societal norms. Through the lens of Elizabeth's experiences, the book provides a funny and poignant commentary on disrupting societal assumptions, particularly in the male-dominated field of science.
Elizabeth Zott, the protagonist, is portrayed as a brilliant woman breaking into the boys' club of science in the 1950s. Despite facing obstacles and denigration, Elizabeth remains dedicated to her work and empowers other women through her platform on a TV show called 'Supper at Six,' where she gives 'Lessons in Chemistry' to encourage women to pursue greater things beyond traditional roles as wives and mothers.
Back in 1961, when women wore shirtwaist dresses and joined garden clubs and drove legions of children around in seatbeltless cars without giving it a second thought; back before anyone knew there’d e...April 2022•423 pages A compelling, highly readable, and deeply researched book that shines a light on six remarkable women - it's a must-read for space buffs, biography lovers, and future trailblazers alike.
The Six: The Untold Story of America's First Women Astronauts by Loren Grush narrates the remarkable lives of the first six women selected to be astronauts at NASA. This nonfiction book explores their backgrounds, the challenges they faced due to sexism in the military and space programs, and their groundbreaking achievements during the early era of space exploration. It highlights their training, personal stories, and the inspiration they provided to future generations, especially women in STEM.
Grush's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex topics in space technology easy to understand for readers of all backgrounds. The author conducted extensive research, including interviews with the astronauts and people close to them, resulting in a well-rounded portrayal of each woman's journey. The book balances technical details with personal elements, celebrating their humanity while addressing their doubts and struggles. Overall, it serves as both an informative history and a source of inspiration for aspiring astronauts and engineers.
The sun was still hours away from coming up that morning, and Margaret “Rhea” Seddon was already staring into the open abdomen of a patient on her operating table. As per usual, she was trying to cont...September 2023•404 pages- #5
A must-read, gut-punch memoir that shines a necessary spotlight on the dark side of medicine - courageous, compelling, and important, especially for anyone entering or already in the healthcare profession.
Emotional Female by Yumiko Kadota is a powerful memoir that sheds light on the challenges faced by a young female doctor in the surgical field. The book highlights the author's journey through the medical profession, addressing issues of sexism, racism, and mistreatment in the healthcare system. Kadota's writing style is raw and honest, providing readers with a glimpse into the realities of training and working in the medical field.
‘Look at the person to your left. Now look at the person to your right. Two of you will fail medical school,’ forewarned the dean of Medicine. It was orientation week at university and I sat in a lect...March 2021•402 pages A timely, invigorating rallying cry that reframes women’s anger as a force for positive change - excellent for anyone ready to understand, accept, and even harness their own righteous rage.
"Good and Mad: The Revolutionary Power of Women's Anger" by Rebecca Traister explores the history of women's anger and its role in fueling political and social movements. Traister delves into how women's anger has been suppressed and undervalued, while highlighting the importance of embracing and channeling that anger for positive change. Through a mix of historical analysis and personal anecdotes, the book addresses the intersectionality of sexism, racism, and classism, emphasizing the need for women to harness their anger as a force for activism and societal transformation.
The contemporary reemergence of women’s rage as a mass impulse comes after decades of feminist deep freeze. The years following the great social movements of the twentieth century—the women’s movement...October 2018•300 pagesA bloody, darkly humorous, and surprisingly thoughtful spin on vampire tales. Not for the faint of heart, but if you like your horror with a side of social insight and girl power, this book delivers fang-tastic results.
The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix is a horror novel set in the late 1980s to early 1990s that follows a group of Southern housewives who form a book club focusing on true crime stories. When a new neighbor arrives in town, suspicions arise about his true nature, leading to a chilling discovery that he might be a vampire preying on the town's children. The book delves into themes of class divisions, gender bias, racial prejudice, and the strength of female friendships, all while building suspense and terror through well-crafted writing and vivid narration.
In 1988, George H. W. Bush had just won the presidential election by inviting everyone to read his lips while Michael Dukakis lost it by riding in a tank. Dr. Huxtable was America’s dad, Kate & Allie...April 2020•411 pages- #8
A charming and clever Discworld tale that blends satire and fantasy to tackle gender roles, with laugh-out-loud humor and brilliant characters - especially perfect for readers new to the series or seeking whimsical social commentary.
Equal Rites tells the tale of a young girl named Eskarina who accidentally inherits a wizard's staff and powers, challenging the exclusive male world of wizardry. The book explores themes of gender relations and discrimination, marking Terry Pratchett's emergence as a major social satirist. Readers follow Esk on her witch training and her quest for equality in a world where traditions need to change with the times.
Granny Weatherwax, a memorable character, plays a significant role in the narrative, guiding Esk and providing motherly support. The book introduces readers to the witches of the Ramtops and addresses societal roles and gender stereotypes through a humorous and engaging storyline, filled with wit, satire, and memorable characters.
It may, however, help to explain why Gandalf never got married and why Merlin was a man. Because this is also a story about sex, although probably not in the athletic, tumbling, count-the-legs-and-div... - #9
A heartwarming, empowering read about resilience and proving yourself, Page continues Kel’s journey with plenty of action and heart. Not every scene is packed with magic or drama, but Tamora Pierce delivers a character-driven tale that’s equal parts inspiring and fun.
In the book 'Page', Keladry of Mindelan continues her journey to become a knight, facing sexism, danger, and puberty along the way. The story covers Kel's second, third, and fourth years as a page, highlighting her struggles against prejudice, her growth as a character, and her determination to succeed in a male-dominated field. Despite facing challenges from both foes and friends, Kel's adventures and trials are engaging and enjoyable to follow, making 'Page' a recommended read for young audiences.
Fall that year was warm. Heat lay in a blanket over the basin of the River Olorun, where the capital of Tortall covered the banks. No breath of air stirred the pennants and flags on their poles. The r...2000•285 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Protector of the Small ) Fight Like Hell: The Untold History of American Labor by Kim Kelly explores the labor movement in the United States through a fresh and inclusive perspective. Kelly highlights the stories of marginalized communities and emphasizes the intersectionality that has been a core part of labor struggles since their inception. The book is organized by industry rather than traditional historical timelines, making it accessible to readers and emphasizing that these labor challenges resonate across various sectors and time periods.
Kelly's writing style is engaging and straightforward, making complex topics easy to understand. She combines historical narratives with personal stories to inspire readers about the importance of labor rights today. Though it includes critical views on systemic issues like sexism and racism within the labor movement, the overall tone is positive and motivating. This book serves as both a primer for newcomers to labor history and a deep dive for those already familiar with the subject.
We must have money; a father’s debts are to be paid, an aged mother to be supported, a brother’s ambition to be aided and so the factories are supplied. Is this to act from free will? Is this freedom?...2022•448 pages










