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Sexy Feminism: A Girl's Guide to Love, Success, and Style
Not your mother’s feminism! A humor-filled action plan for an accessible, cool, and, yes, even sexy brand of 21st-century feminism
A Mariner Original Paperback
Feminism can still seem like an abstract idea that is difficult to incorporate into our hectic, media-saturated, modern lives, but Jennifer Keishin Armstrong and Heather Wood Rudúlph show how the everyday things matter. In an age when “concern-trolling,” “slut-shaming,” and “body-snarking” are blogosphere bywords, when reproductive rights are back under political attack, and when women are still pressured to “have it all,” feminism is more relevant than ever. For many young women the radicalism of the Second Wave is unappealing, and the “do me” and “lipstick” feminism of the Third Wave feels out of date. Enter Sexy Feminism. It’s an inclusive, approachable kind of feminism—miniskirts, lip gloss, and waxing permitted. Covering a range of topics from body issues and workplace gender politics to fashion, dating, and sex, Sexy Feminism is full of advice, resources, and pop culture references that will help shape what being a feminist can look like for you.
A Mariner Original Paperback
Feminism can still seem like an abstract idea that is difficult to incorporate into our hectic, media-saturated, modern lives, but Jennifer Keishin Armstrong and Heather Wood Rudúlph show how the everyday things matter. In an age when “concern-trolling,” “slut-shaming,” and “body-snarking” are blogosphere bywords, when reproductive rights are back under political attack, and when women are still pressured to “have it all,” feminism is more relevant than ever. For many young women the radicalism of the Second Wave is unappealing, and the “do me” and “lipstick” feminism of the Third Wave feels out of date. Enter Sexy Feminism. It’s an inclusive, approachable kind of feminism—miniskirts, lip gloss, and waxing permitted. Covering a range of topics from body issues and workplace gender politics to fashion, dating, and sex, Sexy Feminism is full of advice, resources, and pop culture references that will help shape what being a feminist can look like for you.
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
About the author
Jennifer Keishin Armstrong
10 books239 followersJennifer Keishin Armstrong’s writing takes readers behind the scenes of major moments in pop culture history and examines the lasting impact that our favorite TV shows, music, and movies have on our society and psyches. She investigates why pop culture matters deeply, from The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Seinfeld, to Sex and the City and Mean Girls, to Beyoncé, Taylor, and Barbie. She has written eight books, including the New York Times bestseller Seinfeldia, When Women Invented Television, Sex and the City and Us, and So Fetch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 14, 2013
Feminism isn't as "clear cut" as it was back in the 1970's. Is marrying anti-feminist? What about carefree, casual sex? Or thongs? Or Brazilians? Or a career? Armstrong and Rudulph take a look at several issues which are big feminist topics - cosmetic surgery, waxes, dating, sex, contraceptives and more - and try to give a reasonable answer to "Is this feminist or not?"
NOTE: I received this through the Amazon Vine program.
I went into this book pretty cautious. I just finished a feminism book and wasn't that impressed, so I tried to keep my expectations low. Also, with a title like "Sexy Feminism", I was skeptical. Feminism is more than about "being sexy" - it's about giving women human rights! But I quickly found that while there were plenty of portions that bugged me (the constant repetition of feminism being "sexy and fun", the answers that aren't really answers), mostly, I found this one of the more insightful introductory feminist novels I've read.
One of the things that I liked the most was the amount of research and references there were in here. The authors have a nice hefty Bibliography, filled with weblinks, magazines, and books. This is what I like to see in non-fiction - not just authors telling me what they think is true, but showing me, using resources - resources that I can verify, if I choose to.
I also rather liked the tone that the novel was written in. The last feminism book I read, the author used a very conversational style; while this book is by no means straight "professional" non-fiction (they say sh** and the f-bomb a couple of times), overall, it felt like I was learning, not having a conversation with my girlfriends - again, this is something I like when reading nonfiction.
What was sort of a mixed bag was the solutions. On one hand, the authors posed questions to the reader about WHY the reader wanted to do something (get a Brazilian, dress in sexy clothes, have casual sex, or get a boob job) instead of just outright saying "Don't get a boob job". I liked this because it turns the responsibility and the choice back on the woman - are you getting a Brazilian because you like to, or because your boyfriend makes you feel you have to? Do you diet because you are overweight and want to be healthy or because you aren't the size of Kate Moss? A lot of feminism books that I've seen tend to say things like "if you get married, don't change your name!" or "Never diet!" without ultimately returning the responsibility to the woman. Not giving us a choice to choose our last names or our clothes or our sex lives is just as bad as what patriarchy would have of us. On the other hand, it's not very decisive. So if you want a boob job and it would make you happier, do it? Brazilians are OK if you choose it, not your boyfriend? I get "different strokes" but this seems sketchy to me.
I think my favorite part was the chapter on Female Friends. In it, they condemn how society pits women against each other (usually over a man) and celebrate close female friends. It brought a tear to my eye, because I am a very lucky woman to have a very close friend - my sister, whom I can tell pretty much everything to (and she can tell me). Unfortunately, I'm sure that society sees us as lesbians, which is a shame that any affection between women automatically has to be sexual, but I am grateful for her and can say that yes, she makes life a whole lot better.
At the very end, the authors encourage women to be activist however they feel best able. Be it holding a sign and protesting, volunteering or blogging. I appreciate this because I am not an in-your-face type of girl; I'd rather take to pen and paper and write about the injustices I see than hold a sign on the street corner. Or donate money to a worthy cause. Or refuse to buy products from anti-feminist companies.
This book isn't without faults. As I said, the title is "Sexy Feminism" after all, which I feel isn't a great descriptor of this book. Sure, the authors are trying to make feminism appealing, but honestly, if you have to sell feminism by calling it "fun" and "sexy", is it worth it? I'm not a child; I don't have to be conned into doing something. I can support a cause even if it isn't "fun" and "sexy", but because I know it is good for me and good for everyone around me.
If you are new to feminism and would like to see how your unique characteristics can fit into the movement, this is a great place to start. I see this book being open to Democrats AND Republicans, liberals AND conservatives, the skepticals AND the religious. If you're more experienced with feminism, this will probably tell you nothing new but may give you some new questions to ponder or ways to help out.
NOTE: I received this through the Amazon Vine program.
I went into this book pretty cautious. I just finished a feminism book and wasn't that impressed, so I tried to keep my expectations low. Also, with a title like "Sexy Feminism", I was skeptical. Feminism is more than about "being sexy" - it's about giving women human rights! But I quickly found that while there were plenty of portions that bugged me (the constant repetition of feminism being "sexy and fun", the answers that aren't really answers), mostly, I found this one of the more insightful introductory feminist novels I've read.
One of the things that I liked the most was the amount of research and references there were in here. The authors have a nice hefty Bibliography, filled with weblinks, magazines, and books. This is what I like to see in non-fiction - not just authors telling me what they think is true, but showing me, using resources - resources that I can verify, if I choose to.
I also rather liked the tone that the novel was written in. The last feminism book I read, the author used a very conversational style; while this book is by no means straight "professional" non-fiction (they say sh** and the f-bomb a couple of times), overall, it felt like I was learning, not having a conversation with my girlfriends - again, this is something I like when reading nonfiction.
What was sort of a mixed bag was the solutions. On one hand, the authors posed questions to the reader about WHY the reader wanted to do something (get a Brazilian, dress in sexy clothes, have casual sex, or get a boob job) instead of just outright saying "Don't get a boob job". I liked this because it turns the responsibility and the choice back on the woman - are you getting a Brazilian because you like to, or because your boyfriend makes you feel you have to? Do you diet because you are overweight and want to be healthy or because you aren't the size of Kate Moss? A lot of feminism books that I've seen tend to say things like "if you get married, don't change your name!" or "Never diet!" without ultimately returning the responsibility to the woman. Not giving us a choice to choose our last names or our clothes or our sex lives is just as bad as what patriarchy would have of us. On the other hand, it's not very decisive. So if you want a boob job and it would make you happier, do it? Brazilians are OK if you choose it, not your boyfriend? I get "different strokes" but this seems sketchy to me.
I think my favorite part was the chapter on Female Friends. In it, they condemn how society pits women against each other (usually over a man) and celebrate close female friends. It brought a tear to my eye, because I am a very lucky woman to have a very close friend - my sister, whom I can tell pretty much everything to (and she can tell me). Unfortunately, I'm sure that society sees us as lesbians, which is a shame that any affection between women automatically has to be sexual, but I am grateful for her and can say that yes, she makes life a whole lot better.
At the very end, the authors encourage women to be activist however they feel best able. Be it holding a sign and protesting, volunteering or blogging. I appreciate this because I am not an in-your-face type of girl; I'd rather take to pen and paper and write about the injustices I see than hold a sign on the street corner. Or donate money to a worthy cause. Or refuse to buy products from anti-feminist companies.
This book isn't without faults. As I said, the title is "Sexy Feminism" after all, which I feel isn't a great descriptor of this book. Sure, the authors are trying to make feminism appealing, but honestly, if you have to sell feminism by calling it "fun" and "sexy", is it worth it? I'm not a child; I don't have to be conned into doing something. I can support a cause even if it isn't "fun" and "sexy", but because I know it is good for me and good for everyone around me.
If you are new to feminism and would like to see how your unique characteristics can fit into the movement, this is a great place to start. I see this book being open to Democrats AND Republicans, liberals AND conservatives, the skepticals AND the religious. If you're more experienced with feminism, this will probably tell you nothing new but may give you some new questions to ponder or ways to help out.
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February 14, 2021Tutaj chciałabym zrobić ze sto disclaimerów, że czytałam tę książkę w ramach klubu książki i normalnie nigdy bym po nią nie sięgnęła, ale ostatecznie mogłam przemyśleć sobie wiele spraw związanych z własnym feminizmem i skąd on się wziął, mimo że do samej książki mam ogrom zastrzeżeń i nikomu jej nigdy nie polecę.
Autorki co raz sobie zaprzeczają i chociaż w tej pozycji znajdzie się wiele wartościowych spostrzeżeń dotyczących tego, czym i jak patriarchalny świat stoi, to jednak nie mogę zgodzić się z tytułową tezą, przede wszystkim dlatego, że zdaniem autorek feminizm jest fajny, bo jest sexy i cool, a nie przede wszystkim dlatego, że jest konieczny. W ogóle apolityczność tej książki to moim zdaniem wyczyn, na który trudno nie patrzeć z pewnym podziwem, a jednak jest to książka apolityczna o feminizmie, co moim zdaniem kompletnie się wyklucza. To też bardzo konkretny rodzaj feminizmu: liberalny, dla białych, bogatych kobiet i chociaż autorki silą się na inkluzywność, to nie wyszły daleko poza drugą falę, nie stały chyba nigdy obok żadnej osoby LGBT+ (jak powiem, że chciałyby mieć przyjaciela geja, to chyba wystarczy, a ilość stereotypów na temat lesbijek jest trochę żenująca), noszenie zakrycia twarzy uznają za opresję i tak dalej i tak dalej.
Każda feministka jakoś tą feministką została. Czy to wychodząc na ulicę, czy to stykając się z teorią gender na studiach (tak było ze mną). Pewnie są też osoby, które zaczynały od takiej i podobnych pozycji, przypominającej nieco pisanie artykułów na lajfstajlowego bloga lub do cosmo. Nie umiem ocenić, czy to dobrze, czy to źle, a jednak osobiście uważam, że tezy przygotowane przez autorki są niepełne, spłycone, nieco ograniczone w swojej perspektywie. No ale może właśnie za dużo wiem o tym feminizmie, może za dużo wymagam, ale po prostu nie uważam książki za dobrą, mimo licznych naprawdę dobrych odniesień do teorii i czołowych wydarzeń z feministycznej herstorii – te dobre merytorycznie fragmenty w połączeniu z tym, co myślą sobie autorki autentycznie tracą i można się w tym wszystkim pogubić.
Autorki co raz sobie zaprzeczają i chociaż w tej pozycji znajdzie się wiele wartościowych spostrzeżeń dotyczących tego, czym i jak patriarchalny świat stoi, to jednak nie mogę zgodzić się z tytułową tezą, przede wszystkim dlatego, że zdaniem autorek feminizm jest fajny, bo jest sexy i cool, a nie przede wszystkim dlatego, że jest konieczny. W ogóle apolityczność tej książki to moim zdaniem wyczyn, na który trudno nie patrzeć z pewnym podziwem, a jednak jest to książka apolityczna o feminizmie, co moim zdaniem kompletnie się wyklucza. To też bardzo konkretny rodzaj feminizmu: liberalny, dla białych, bogatych kobiet i chociaż autorki silą się na inkluzywność, to nie wyszły daleko poza drugą falę, nie stały chyba nigdy obok żadnej osoby LGBT+ (jak powiem, że chciałyby mieć przyjaciela geja, to chyba wystarczy, a ilość stereotypów na temat lesbijek jest trochę żenująca), noszenie zakrycia twarzy uznają za opresję i tak dalej i tak dalej.
Każda feministka jakoś tą feministką została. Czy to wychodząc na ulicę, czy to stykając się z teorią gender na studiach (tak było ze mną). Pewnie są też osoby, które zaczynały od takiej i podobnych pozycji, przypominającej nieco pisanie artykułów na lajfstajlowego bloga lub do cosmo. Nie umiem ocenić, czy to dobrze, czy to źle, a jednak osobiście uważam, że tezy przygotowane przez autorki są niepełne, spłycone, nieco ograniczone w swojej perspektywie. No ale może właśnie za dużo wiem o tym feminizmie, może za dużo wymagam, ale po prostu nie uważam książki za dobrą, mimo licznych naprawdę dobrych odniesień do teorii i czołowych wydarzeń z feministycznej herstorii – te dobre merytorycznie fragmenty w połączeniu z tym, co myślą sobie autorki autentycznie tracą i można się w tym wszystkim pogubić.
March 14, 2013
Sexy Feminism is the third feminist non-fiction I read in the first month of 2013, and I was hoping for something to fill in the gaps of my self-imposed feminist education. While it sort of fulfilled my requirements with quality advice and interesting points, I had some problems with the writing.
Style-wise, Sexy Feminism is blogger-friendly, and since the title is the name of the authors' blog, this is to be expected. A little informality can lead to funny, direct and personal dialogue with readers, a lot of informality herein had us hearing life stories and feminist reasons why the authors' broke up with boyfriends - which were rather reductive, if you ask me. A lot more had to be going on than the relevant explanations given. And I feel bad for thinking that way, but then I didn't expect to be put in a position of judgement, either. I'd rather not have read intimate details of these women's lives. After all, this isn't supposed to be an autobiography.
Conveying these stories upon the reader in each chapter, together with the theory, advice, and action plans, gave the impression of the wise older woman gathering the young-uns and telling them to sit and listen to someone who's lived life. This unintentional condescension is compounded by the authors' examples, and favoured feminist role models, many of whom are way before my time - I'm 26. Who the hell is Mary Tyler Moore? She's mentioned so often, I feel I should know. Perhaps it's the cultural divide rather than age, since I'm English and they're American.
As a fan of bluntness, I appreciate the honesty with which these authors expressed themselves in their opinions, they appreciate that the reader heretofore may not have called themselves a feminist or not have acted in a pro-feminist way, however some decisions they do simply call 'dumb'. Yet, I'm not happy with the way they conflate feminism with promoting environmentally friendly and animal friendly products not made in workhouses or sweatshops, and strongly encourage everyone to research every company before buying their merchandise. All very nice in theory, but how many people have the time to do this, or even the power and availability to make those 'right' choices? For instance, the UK's The Body Shop sells makeup and bath products not tested on animals, yet they're owned by L'Oreal who do test on animals. To buy from The Body Shop, or not? Anyway, I don't consider the environment or animal testing to be feminist issues, sweatshop workers maybe, but not the other two.
Certain assumptions are made, for example: 'heels have been used as throughout history as tools of oppression' - making no mention of the times when it was fashionable for men to wear heels. Nevertheless, I'm glad rape fantasy and female genital mutilation are discussed, and I was intrigued by the fractious female friendships and competitive female bosses. I've always preferred having female bosses, apparently that isn't the norm. I did however, once have a problem with a much older female colleague. She spread nasty rumours implying I was lazy and incompetent, everyone came to my defense including my ex and current female bosses at the time, which secured me a promotion! Not long after, my accuser applied for voluntary redundancy and it seemed likely she'd get it, they refused, forcing her to retire instead. That's karma for you.
Although I don't question the authors' passion for their subject, it noticeably lacks the urgency conveyed in the other feminist books I read this month, though I'm sure that's down to the broad range of topics covered as opposed to the sub-sections those other books focused on.
The title gave me pause when I first spotted it. To use 'sexy' to describe feminism felt a little risqué. Was it being used as a marketing tool as synonym for 'cool' (uh-oh), a play on words for 'gender' (clever), or as a critique of our sexualised (objectifying) society (acceptable)? My mind went straight for the first, though hoping for the last, since there are lipsticked lips on the cover. [They're for makeup if it's being applied because it makes the woman feel good, and not so she can impress a man or anyone else.] ETA: I've just taken a look at my review for Feminist Chauvinist Pigs - which is referenced in SF - and the author condemned the use of 'sexy' when it came to feminism, so now I'm doubly surprised to see its usage by these authors, and for the title, no less.
I didn't mean to be so negative about Sexy Feminism, but unfortunately, so far it's my least enjoyable feminist read. I'll admit, I skimmed in places, skipping the more personal bits, pushing through boring areas - not necessarily the book's fault; certain topics I've read about elsewhere and didn't feel like going over old ground. Those completely new to feminism as a concept will probably gain a lot more from reading Sexy Feminism, especially women in their thirties and older.
*My thanks to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and Netgalley for the e-ARC in return for an honest review.
Style-wise, Sexy Feminism is blogger-friendly, and since the title is the name of the authors' blog, this is to be expected. A little informality can lead to funny, direct and personal dialogue with readers, a lot of informality herein had us hearing life stories and feminist reasons why the authors' broke up with boyfriends - which were rather reductive, if you ask me. A lot more had to be going on than the relevant explanations given. And I feel bad for thinking that way, but then I didn't expect to be put in a position of judgement, either. I'd rather not have read intimate details of these women's lives. After all, this isn't supposed to be an autobiography.
Conveying these stories upon the reader in each chapter, together with the theory, advice, and action plans, gave the impression of the wise older woman gathering the young-uns and telling them to sit and listen to someone who's lived life. This unintentional condescension is compounded by the authors' examples, and favoured feminist role models, many of whom are way before my time - I'm 26. Who the hell is Mary Tyler Moore? She's mentioned so often, I feel I should know. Perhaps it's the cultural divide rather than age, since I'm English and they're American.
As a fan of bluntness, I appreciate the honesty with which these authors expressed themselves in their opinions, they appreciate that the reader heretofore may not have called themselves a feminist or not have acted in a pro-feminist way, however some decisions they do simply call 'dumb'. Yet, I'm not happy with the way they conflate feminism with promoting environmentally friendly and animal friendly products not made in workhouses or sweatshops, and strongly encourage everyone to research every company before buying their merchandise. All very nice in theory, but how many people have the time to do this, or even the power and availability to make those 'right' choices? For instance, the UK's The Body Shop sells makeup and bath products not tested on animals, yet they're owned by L'Oreal who do test on animals. To buy from The Body Shop, or not? Anyway, I don't consider the environment or animal testing to be feminist issues, sweatshop workers maybe, but not the other two.
Certain assumptions are made, for example: 'heels have been used as throughout history as tools of oppression' - making no mention of the times when it was fashionable for men to wear heels. Nevertheless, I'm glad rape fantasy and female genital mutilation are discussed, and I was intrigued by the fractious female friendships and competitive female bosses. I've always preferred having female bosses, apparently that isn't the norm. I did however, once have a problem with a much older female colleague. She spread nasty rumours implying I was lazy and incompetent, everyone came to my defense including my ex and current female bosses at the time, which secured me a promotion! Not long after, my accuser applied for voluntary redundancy and it seemed likely she'd get it, they refused, forcing her to retire instead. That's karma for you.
Although I don't question the authors' passion for their subject, it noticeably lacks the urgency conveyed in the other feminist books I read this month, though I'm sure that's down to the broad range of topics covered as opposed to the sub-sections those other books focused on.
The title gave me pause when I first spotted it. To use 'sexy' to describe feminism felt a little risqué. Was it being used as a marketing tool as synonym for 'cool' (uh-oh), a play on words for 'gender' (clever), or as a critique of our sexualised (objectifying) society (acceptable)? My mind went straight for the first, though hoping for the last, since there are lipsticked lips on the cover. [They're for makeup if it's being applied because it makes the woman feel good, and not so she can impress a man or anyone else.] ETA: I've just taken a look at my review for Feminist Chauvinist Pigs - which is referenced in SF - and the author condemned the use of 'sexy' when it came to feminism, so now I'm doubly surprised to see its usage by these authors, and for the title, no less.
I didn't mean to be so negative about Sexy Feminism, but unfortunately, so far it's my least enjoyable feminist read. I'll admit, I skimmed in places, skipping the more personal bits, pushing through boring areas - not necessarily the book's fault; certain topics I've read about elsewhere and didn't feel like going over old ground. Those completely new to feminism as a concept will probably gain a lot more from reading Sexy Feminism, especially women in their thirties and older.
*My thanks to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and Netgalley for the e-ARC in return for an honest review.
January 1, 2017
Я очікувала, що книжка буде більш аналітичною, натомість це саме те, що заявлене в назві - путівник. Авторки аналізують різні сфери жіночого життя - косметику, епіляцію, пластичну хірургію, секс, стосунки - і пояснюють, як наші вибори в цих сферах можуть бути більш чи менш феміністичними. Наприклад бразильська епіляція - ок, коли ти відчуваєш себе з нею більш сексуальною, не ок, коли тобі висувають це як умову стосунків. Феміністично перевдягатися в латекс і махати батогом, якщо тобі з цим комфортно, нефеміністично - якщо це вимога твого партнера, на яку погоджуєшся зі страху його втратити.
Мені трохи не сподобався агітаційно-бадьорий тон книжки, можливо тому, що вона пропонує надто багато готових відповідей на питання. Це трохи нагадує "Енциклопедії для дівчаток" лише в феміністичному дусі. Авторки пропонують бути не просто свідомими - але й активними, вибрати для себе організацію, на яку жертвувати свої кошти, купувати косметику лише фірм, які не
Для людей, які активно цікавляться фемінізмом у книжці не буде супер-відкриттів, проблеми, згадані в ній, регулярно обговорюють у пресі чи на блогах. З речей, які мені особисто були цікаві - розділ про стосунки і savoir-vivre зустрічання. Ми не звикли замислюватися, як всі ці пор��ди, на кшталт "хто кому дзвонить перший" обмежують і часто нищать природні стосунки. Цікавий розділ про жіночу дружбу і те, як вона стає для нас прототипом перших стосунків з чолов��ками.
Наприкінці є список літератури для подальшого читання, чудова ідея
Мені трохи не сподобався агітаційно-бадьорий тон книжки, можливо тому, що вона пропонує надто багато готових відповідей на питання. Це трохи нагадує "Енциклопедії для дівчаток" лише в феміністичному дусі. Авторки пропонують бути не просто свідомими - але й активними, вибрати для себе організацію, на яку жертвувати свої кошти, купувати косметику лише фірм, які не
Для людей, які активно цікавляться фемінізмом у книжці не буде супер-відкриттів, проблеми, згадані в ній, регулярно обговорюють у пресі чи на блогах. З речей, які мені особисто були цікаві - розділ про стосунки і savoir-vivre зустрічання. Ми не звикли замислюватися, як всі ці пор��ди, на кшталт "хто кому дзвонить перший" обмежують і часто нищать природні стосунки. Цікавий розділ про жіночу дружбу і те, як вона стає для нас прототипом перших стосунків з чолов��ками.
Наприкінці є список літератури для подальшого читання, чудова ідея
March 18, 2021
Książka napisana w sposób infantylny, autorki nie miały sprecyzowanej myśli w niektórych tematach. Pozatym czasem powielały błędne informacje czy stereotypy. Plus mnie nie podoba sie gdy ktoś mi mówi co mogę a czego nie moge robic, a ta ksiazka to robi. Podobał mi się za to zbiór literatury na końcu. Nie wiem, moze to książką dla jakis nastolatek, choć jak ja bym to czytala za mlodu to wydaje mi się, ze bym sie tak samo wkurzała jak teraz.
April 20, 2014
Don't waste your time, grab a book by Jessica Valenti instead. This book claims it wants you to define feminism for yourself but then gives rules to follow. It's hypocritical and judgmental in its approach and it reeks of "white feminism". It use ableist language, never mentions racism or intersectionality and is blindingly heterosexist.
July 29, 2016
I really wanted to like this book but honestly, I couldn't even finish it. It has some good, basic feminist principles but I found the book extremely judgemental.
In one sentence it will advocate for everyone doing their own thing and living their lives freely and the next it would reprimand women for getting plastic surgery or specific women and their personal values etc.
I understand the critique they were trying to make on women's societal pressure to always look beautiful and young but this book seemed way too judgemental for me and not good for individuals looking into learning more about feminism.
If you're going to read this book be critical of the information they are providing you with. Yes there are some good feminist principles but this book spent a lot of time bashing a 'certain type' of woman for my liking.
In one sentence it will advocate for everyone doing their own thing and living their lives freely and the next it would reprimand women for getting plastic surgery or specific women and their personal values etc.
I understand the critique they were trying to make on women's societal pressure to always look beautiful and young but this book seemed way too judgemental for me and not good for individuals looking into learning more about feminism.
If you're going to read this book be critical of the information they are providing you with. Yes there are some good feminist principles but this book spent a lot of time bashing a 'certain type' of woman for my liking.
March 25, 2013
I was intrigued when I came across the title of Sexy Feminism on Netgalley a couple of months ago. It seemed to almost be a perfect fit for me as I had been looking for something new and different but also something that would reflect the things that I had received an education in. According to the brief synopsis, this was “not your mother’s feminism”, and instead was an offering of a brand new feminism. One that was more accessible, cool, and sexy. I wasn’t exactly sure what was to be meant by that but I was definitely interested in finding out.
Read Full Review Here (Link goes live 3/24/13)
Read Full Review Here (Link goes live 3/24/13)
August 26, 2013
As someone who has engaged in the academic conversations surrounding feminism and followed them into digital iterations, my reaction to the book veers from harsh criticism to extremely positive resonance. Overall, I think the book would be a good transition for a young woman who has previously eschewed the feminist title, but is fed up with the image of femininity painted by media, advertising, and magazines.
For an extensive review, see my post:
http://rachelwarzala.wordpress.com/20...
For an extensive review, see my post:
http://rachelwarzala.wordpress.com/20...
February 22, 2021
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August 24, 2021
Nie dowiedziałam się prawie niczego nowego i w niektórych sprawach się z autorkami nie zgadzam
January 30, 2017
Temat feminizmu wraca ciągle jak bumerang. Budzi wiele, często skrajnych emocji. Kobiece ciało stało się przedmiotem rozmów polityków, debat medialnych oraz indywidualnych przekonań i wyznań. Feminizm w Polsce jeszcze nigdy nie stał się tak publicznym jak w przeciągu kilku miesięcy, za sprawą "czarnych protestów".
Swoją cegiełkę w ogólnej dyskusji o feminizmie dokładają dwie panie, wieloletnie działaczki na rzecz kobiet: Jennifer Keishin Armstrong oraz Heather Wood Rudúlph. Autorki z zapałem rozpoczynają przybliżanie współczesnego pojmowania feminizmu. To o co dawniej walczyły kobiety jest w jakiś sposób przebrzmiałe. Obecnie zatrzymujemy się na poziomie rozmowy o operacjach plastycznych, depilacji, dietach i kosmetykach. A wszystko to dotyczy cielesności, jej pojmowania, zaprzyjaźnienia się z tym co tylko nasze i akceptowania swojego ciała. Bardziej otwarcie rozmawiamy o seksie, ale nadal więcej w tym wstydu i ustępliwości niż mówienia wprost o swoich potrzebach.
Za to cenię tę książkę, za jej bezpośredniość, za rozmowę niewykluczającą część społeczeństwa ze względu na hermetyczne słownictwo, za odwagę mówienia o cielesności, o seksie, ale nie w sposób trywializujący, lecz jako ważny element naszego życia.
Tu jednak zalety się kończą, a wkracza treść, która jest cechą charakterystyczną tej książki, mianowicie uwielbienie do rozwlekania treści, które z łatwością można by zamknąć w kilku zdaniach. Przez co czasami staje się to rozprawą o zaletach i wadach depilacji brazylijskiej, a zatraca się tu puenta i klarowność początkowej tezy.
Należy oddać autorkom, że całość utrzymana jest w dość luźnym klimacie, zarówno językowo jak i kompozycyjnie. Natomiast im dłużej myślę o tej książce, to zdaje się ona luźnym zbiorem przemyśleń, doświadczeń autorek z ich wieloletniej pracy. I na tym polu zdaje egzamin, jest to przyjemna lektura dla osób już zaangażowanych w ruch feministyczny. "Feminizm jest sexy" to nie pozycja naukowa, nie poznamy tu wiele dat i przeszłości ruchu kobiet. Jesteśmy osadzeni tu i teraz, i na tym chyba zależało autorkom, żeby brać odpowiedzialność za przyszłość późniejszych pokoleń.
Po więcej zapraszam na: http://kulturalnykogel-mogel.blogspot...
Swoją cegiełkę w ogólnej dyskusji o feminizmie dokładają dwie panie, wieloletnie działaczki na rzecz kobiet: Jennifer Keishin Armstrong oraz Heather Wood Rudúlph. Autorki z zapałem rozpoczynają przybliżanie współczesnego pojmowania feminizmu. To o co dawniej walczyły kobiety jest w jakiś sposób przebrzmiałe. Obecnie zatrzymujemy się na poziomie rozmowy o operacjach plastycznych, depilacji, dietach i kosmetykach. A wszystko to dotyczy cielesności, jej pojmowania, zaprzyjaźnienia się z tym co tylko nasze i akceptowania swojego ciała. Bardziej otwarcie rozmawiamy o seksie, ale nadal więcej w tym wstydu i ustępliwości niż mówienia wprost o swoich potrzebach.
Za to cenię tę książkę, za jej bezpośredniość, za rozmowę niewykluczającą część społeczeństwa ze względu na hermetyczne słownictwo, za odwagę mówienia o cielesności, o seksie, ale nie w sposób trywializujący, lecz jako ważny element naszego życia.
Tu jednak zalety się kończą, a wkracza treść, która jest cechą charakterystyczną tej książki, mianowicie uwielbienie do rozwlekania treści, które z łatwością można by zamknąć w kilku zdaniach. Przez co czasami staje się to rozprawą o zaletach i wadach depilacji brazylijskiej, a zatraca się tu puenta i klarowność początkowej tezy.
Należy oddać autorkom, że całość utrzymana jest w dość luźnym klimacie, zarówno językowo jak i kompozycyjnie. Natomiast im dłużej myślę o tej książce, to zdaje się ona luźnym zbiorem przemyśleń, doświadczeń autorek z ich wieloletniej pracy. I na tym polu zdaje egzamin, jest to przyjemna lektura dla osób już zaangażowanych w ruch feministyczny. "Feminizm jest sexy" to nie pozycja naukowa, nie poznamy tu wiele dat i przeszłości ruchu kobiet. Jesteśmy osadzeni tu i teraz, i na tym chyba zależało autorkom, żeby brać odpowiedzialność za przyszłość późniejszych pokoleń.
Po więcej zapraszam na: http://kulturalnykogel-mogel.blogspot...
March 8, 2013
Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I've considered myself a feminist for probably about ten years now, since I was a teenager and started learning what feminism could mean. That commitment has never wavered through years of attacks on feminism, women, etc. But I haven't read many of the classic feminist texts (bell hooks being someone I keep meaning to try but I keep getting sidetracked by all the fantastic YA fiction out there!) so I do keep an eye out for new texts that could become feminist classics.
Unfortunately I don't anticipate this being one of those works. It's written very simply and engaging but is ultimately very simplistic. My main reaction to everything was "...and? Your point is?" There really wasn't much depth and I was expecting more. I wonder if this might be a better starter feminist text because nothing in here was new or challenging to me. I feel like I was encouraged to create my own life that works for me, which, um, I was already doing.
There were some great ideas in here but I didn't think they received enough attention. For example, political rights are largely skipped over but there is an entire chapter on bikini waxing (dull as dishwater to me). Sexy feminists are given a brief profile but not very many-I would have loved some more analysis of contemporary women who are making their mark on feminism through their actions in the public eye. In some ways, the book seems to be more about making the word "feminist" more palatable to people by making it not sound so crazy (what is crazy about valuing the life and contributions of approximately 50% of the world's population as much as that of the other 50% I ask?) and I am in favor of that but I wish this book had more of substance to offer.
I've considered myself a feminist for probably about ten years now, since I was a teenager and started learning what feminism could mean. That commitment has never wavered through years of attacks on feminism, women, etc. But I haven't read many of the classic feminist texts (bell hooks being someone I keep meaning to try but I keep getting sidetracked by all the fantastic YA fiction out there!) so I do keep an eye out for new texts that could become feminist classics.
Unfortunately I don't anticipate this being one of those works. It's written very simply and engaging but is ultimately very simplistic. My main reaction to everything was "...and? Your point is?" There really wasn't much depth and I was expecting more. I wonder if this might be a better starter feminist text because nothing in here was new or challenging to me. I feel like I was encouraged to create my own life that works for me, which, um, I was already doing.
There were some great ideas in here but I didn't think they received enough attention. For example, political rights are largely skipped over but there is an entire chapter on bikini waxing (dull as dishwater to me). Sexy feminists are given a brief profile but not very many-I would have loved some more analysis of contemporary women who are making their mark on feminism through their actions in the public eye. In some ways, the book seems to be more about making the word "feminist" more palatable to people by making it not sound so crazy (what is crazy about valuing the life and contributions of approximately 50% of the world's population as much as that of the other 50% I ask?) and I am in favor of that but I wish this book had more of substance to offer.
May 10, 2013
I'm not actually certain what the purpose or audience is for this book. By the title, I felt like it would be a recruiting type book. It would fit a beginning college audience that were drawn in by the cover and possibly interesting in exploring feminism. This book doesn't actually do that. Each chapter gives a brief history of the chosen hot topic and attempts to take a feminist stance upon it. The feminist stance is a little unclear in some areas. It's like, it's a woman's choice if she does this or not and my feeling is like, no crap. Is feminism seriously only a "your choice" ideology now? If that is the case, then why even have something considered feminism anymore?
I find the worst chapter to be on waxing (entitled hilariously Our Poor Vaginas). This chapter is heavily focused on how the porn industry has screwed women over. I have mixed feelings on this because I find that there are porn stars that are very vocal feminists. I've been waxing since I was young because I was a ballerina. I didn't like shaving and didn't like hair around the line of my leotard. This is my choice, it has nothing to do with the porn industry or the expectation of men. By going through this ritual, it doesn't mean that I'm not a feminist, but at the same time, calling it a feminist act is ridiculous as well. Finally, there are much worse things that hurt our vaginas, so the title is just a cheap shot to grab your attention.
There are much better feminist books out there. This is interesting to flip through if you don't know any of the history behind the topics discussed, but otherwise not necessary.
I find the worst chapter to be on waxing (entitled hilariously Our Poor Vaginas). This chapter is heavily focused on how the porn industry has screwed women over. I have mixed feelings on this because I find that there are porn stars that are very vocal feminists. I've been waxing since I was young because I was a ballerina. I didn't like shaving and didn't like hair around the line of my leotard. This is my choice, it has nothing to do with the porn industry or the expectation of men. By going through this ritual, it doesn't mean that I'm not a feminist, but at the same time, calling it a feminist act is ridiculous as well. Finally, there are much worse things that hurt our vaginas, so the title is just a cheap shot to grab your attention.
There are much better feminist books out there. This is interesting to flip through if you don't know any of the history behind the topics discussed, but otherwise not necessary.
August 1, 2013
Ok, I admit it, when I first saw the title of this book, I laughed. Or maybe I cringed. Or maybe I did both, because I was afraid this book wasn't going to do feminism proper justice. The truth is, this book was serious enough—in an approachable, digestible, hey girlfriend kind of way. It starts by asserting that feminism is not an F-word, and being a feminist doesn’t mean you hate guys, or should wear disfiguring clothes and grow out your arm-pit hair (unless you want to). It does mean that you have choices when it comes to sex and style. Too many choices, actually. Choices that are fraught with implications, like, to Brazilian bikini wax or not? Plastic surgery, or not? Botox? Boob jobs? What about dieting? Are women doing all of this because we want to, or we feel like we have to? How does your media consumption and buying power fit into all of this? Are we in control of our own image, or buying into what "the man" wants? Sexy Feminism examines all the nuanced details, and helps you think about your own lifestyle in ways that support not only your own journey as a healthy, well-rounded woman, but that of other women. Fave quote: “So yes, you can be a feminist and love mascara, rock red lips, or always smell of a signature scent. These are all feminist acts if the image you project reflects the individual on the inside, rather than the externally-inspired one no woman can achieve.” Word, sister. I still don't love the title, but, heck...five stars.
August 9, 2013
Well, it was about time for another nonfiction book, and unlike Adulting, I just didn’t hugely enjoy my time with it. I’m trying so hard to appreciate nonfiction, and while I’ve certainly finished more nonfiction books than ever this year, I still just have a hard time loving them. I do think it was better than A Little F’ed Up, just because it was less of a primer and really got into the material. I had a hard time reconciling feminism with the basic premise of “this is what you should do to be a feminist”, when isn’t feminism all about choices? As I read further, though, I understood more and came to understand the authors’ points of view. And really, what this book mostly came down to was considering the actual motives behind your choices, and then condemning some of the motives as un-feminist, which makes more sense. I did appreciate their stories of their personal feminism journeys and experiences with each chapter topic. This made the book more relatable and applicable to my life. Similarly, having chapters like “Dating While Feminist” really resonated with me, since that’s a large struggle at this point in my life. Overall, reading this book made me wish I had taken more Women’s Studies courses when I was in school because while I didn’t necessarily enjoy reading this book for “fun”, I certainly could have gotten behind it as an assigned reading. Does that make sense to anyone but me?
Rating: 3 stars out of 5.
Rating: 3 stars out of 5.
September 17, 2014
I'm not very good at reviewing non-fiction. Basically, the most important points I consider are A) is it readable and B) is the logic sound. So, yes, Sexy Feminism is both readable and logically sound--although on the other hand, the arguments it makes are so inclusive they could almost be called tautologies, which by definition are both logically sound and useless.
Not that I necessarily disagree with the premise. I mean, knowledge and freedom of choice are important when it comes to feminism, arguably moreso (arguably! Not that I'm arguing it) than the actual choices that people make.
Did I mention I'm not very good at reviewing non-fiction?
Anyway, this book covers a narrow range of topics within feminism ("sexy" topics!)--makeup, heels, waxing, fashion, etc. And basically it gives background on all of these topics, says some women don't like X because of such-and-such reasons, some women do like X because of so-and-so reasons, we happen to like X (I find it somewhat suspicious that this is what they choose in almost all cases), and now that you have all the facts, feel free to make your own decision.
The end (of my review).
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC of this book from NetGalley.com in return for an honest (nobody said anything about coherent!) review.
Not that I necessarily disagree with the premise. I mean, knowledge and freedom of choice are important when it comes to feminism, arguably moreso (arguably! Not that I'm arguing it) than the actual choices that people make.
Did I mention I'm not very good at reviewing non-fiction?
Anyway, this book covers a narrow range of topics within feminism ("sexy" topics!)--makeup, heels, waxing, fashion, etc. And basically it gives background on all of these topics, says some women don't like X because of such-and-such reasons, some women do like X because of so-and-so reasons, we happen to like X (I find it somewhat suspicious that this is what they choose in almost all cases), and now that you have all the facts, feel free to make your own decision.
The end (of my review).
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC of this book from NetGalley.com in return for an honest (nobody said anything about coherent!) review.
December 1, 2014
Perhaps I just feel differently than the authors, but this book lacked substance. Sexy Feminism is just a thinly-veiled attempt to package Feminist ideas into little palatable sound-bites so that newcomers to the cause can claim that their actions are in the name of Feminism. Some chapters have very specific and contradictory instructions (changing your appearance via a Brazilian wax or makeup is feminist, but should you desire more permanent changes, such as plastic surgery, that is the patriarchy at work and you should learn to be happy with your appearance), but most chapters are more hesitant to make a claim either way (wearing suggestive clothing may be pandering to males, but also may be an expression of your powerful sexuality). I am not suggesting that I know the answer to whether makeup or marriage has a place in Feminism, but this book seems afraid to take a stand.
This book is "Feminism lite" and like non denominational Christianity, appropriate for those that are only superficially interested in the subject, but unwilling to make a actual commitment.
I would have given this book only one star, except the Appendix gives a list of other resources that could help the reader develop a deeper understanding of the subject.
This book is "Feminism lite" and like non denominational Christianity, appropriate for those that are only superficially interested in the subject, but unwilling to make a actual commitment.
I would have given this book only one star, except the Appendix gives a list of other resources that could help the reader develop a deeper understanding of the subject.
March 27, 2016
This was actually a really fun read, and I got so many good quotes from it! I was always wary of reading feminist literature because I was afraid it would get too philosophical. This, however, was just fun, useful, realistic advice for the everyday-woman. There were no chastisements for not being the perfect feminist, just some helpful things to keep in mind for the future. The authors were honest about themselves from the beginning, and that helped me listen to what they had to say. I appreciated the authors noting that there are different struggles faced as a woman of the LGBT community. However, it seems that if you are going to admit that, you can go farther and include a chapter discussing it instead of only including an aside giving exception to the chapter on heterosexual relationships.
I am conflicted about rating this book. I liked the message, although sometimes the book itself lacked substance. But I doubt I would have known about their website had I not picked this up (great cover, right?), so I know the accessibility goal was met. It was a good introduction to thinking about applying feminism-ideas to my everyday life. It wasn't a fantastic book.
I am conflicted about rating this book. I liked the message, although sometimes the book itself lacked substance. But I doubt I would have known about their website had I not picked this up (great cover, right?), so I know the accessibility goal was met. It was a good introduction to thinking about applying feminism-ideas to my everyday life. It wasn't a fantastic book.
March 3, 2013
I'll have to do a proper and full review later, but first impressions:
This book was informative without being condescending, and it was quite honest about the authors opinions and feelings. I think that it made feminism very approachable and easy to understand, though the tag of it being a girl's guide to love, success, and style seems to be a bit overreaching. I don't think I would hand this book to my pre-teen daughter because a lot of the concepts are a bit beyond her, but otherwise it was an interesting book to read.
A review copy was provided to me through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Proper review goes live March 18th on my webpage.
This book was informative without being condescending, and it was quite honest about the authors opinions and feelings. I think that it made feminism very approachable and easy to understand, though the tag of it being a girl's guide to love, success, and style seems to be a bit overreaching. I don't think I would hand this book to my pre-teen daughter because a lot of the concepts are a bit beyond her, but otherwise it was an interesting book to read.
A review copy was provided to me through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Proper review goes live March 18th on my webpage.
May 14, 2013
I noticed people have posted some pretty bitter reviews on this book. Bummer! What I like is that the authors take an issue like plastic surgery and examine from multiple angles and then sort of leave it up to you to make up your mind where you fall on the spectrum. I enjoyed their voices of reason but probably because I share their definition of feminism - it's all about choices!!* :) It is no longer acceptable (not that it ever was) to say "I'm not a feminist but..." Being a feminist is sexy!
*and I don't mean the loaded definition of choice, I mean choice to have or not have kids, to choose a partner or not choose a partner, to work outside the home or not work outside the home, to not be limited to certain career fields
*and I don't mean the loaded definition of choice, I mean choice to have or not have kids, to choose a partner or not choose a partner, to work outside the home or not work outside the home, to not be limited to certain career fields
August 15, 2013
I'm not totally sure what to make of this child of "lipstick feminism." The book was passed along to me by a friend who was convinced it might not be a good fit for me, and she was mostly right. The writing and voice were fine, the doggedly hetero, white, conventional-culture outlook, less so. I appreciated the authors' take on dating and developing strong relationships with other women, even as these topics weren't unique, a person really can't hear them enough times. In the end, I reaffirmed my conviction that there's space for ALL types of women fighting for the greater good. And thus I won't dog this book or it's intended audience. Lets all live in peace (and prosperity.)
September 13, 2014
This bool was my first thorough taste of what feminism is. I enjoyed how this book covered not only the underlying theory & history of feminism, but it also gave practical solutions on how we can practice feminism politically, economically, verbally, etc. It also opened my own eyes to realize that I am 100% feminist & I had no idea. lol
I did find that there were moments where the writing seemed a bit judgmental or rigid about differing opinions but all in all, I felt it was worth the read.
The tools at the end, showcasing how each reader can join in om feminist efforts is definitely the icing on the cake. :)
I did find that there were moments where the writing seemed a bit judgmental or rigid about differing opinions but all in all, I felt it was worth the read.
The tools at the end, showcasing how each reader can join in om feminist efforts is definitely the icing on the cake. :)
March 20, 2013
4 Stars
When I was in High School feminism was only for lesbians. Straight girls were either girly girls, sexpots, or bitches. Recently with all the election stuff and different political bodies trying to pass restrictions on women’s bodies and health there has been a resurgence of feminism. I like this book because it helps dispel the old myths and gives the new generation something to fight for. That being a woman is a powerful thing. And that you can take charge of who you are without changing into a raving bitch.
When I was in High School feminism was only for lesbians. Straight girls were either girly girls, sexpots, or bitches. Recently with all the election stuff and different political bodies trying to pass restrictions on women’s bodies and health there has been a resurgence of feminism. I like this book because it helps dispel the old myths and gives the new generation something to fight for. That being a woman is a powerful thing. And that you can take charge of who you are without changing into a raving bitch.
December 3, 2013
If you aren't familiar with feminism perhaps this is a place to start. They touched on the basics in the forward and first few chapters but spent way too long, and I mean way to long, talking about how feminism relates to waxing. I was surprised with every page I turned and the continuation on the modern history of waxing. I'm just not convinced this is relevant to the modern plight of women, a side note? Yes. Worth more than a page? No. I had to stop and began reading The Feminine Mystique instead. If you've taken a Women Studies course you've covered this book.
May 20, 2017
Mam poważny problem z tłumaczeniem, który stał się dla mnie ważniejszy niż treść książki (może po prostu wolę drugofalowy radykalizm). Nie rozumiem np., dlaczego słynne zdanie Tiny Fey "Bitches get stuff done" zostało przetłumaczone jako "Laski, weźcie się do roboty". Kontekst wskazuje raczej na to, że suki (bo chodziło też o odczarowanie słowa) właśnie robią swoją robotę, nie trzeba ich do tego dodatkowo zachęcać.
Plus "Gayle Rubin, wczesny działacz profeministyczny, powiedział". Poważnie? W książce o feminizmie?
Plus "Gayle Rubin, wczesny działacz profeministyczny, powiedział". Poważnie? W książce o feminizmie?
February 14, 2013
While by no mean's an in-depth treatise on Feminism, it is a an eminently readable discussion of Feminism in reflection to the lives many of us want to live. It definitely made me reflect on a few things about myself, such as why many of us, myself included, find the label feminist uncomfortable. We have a presentation of feminism with the core belief that women are the equals of men, so why should we be ashamed of wanting to be considered equal?
December 5, 2014
Disclaimer: This ARC was given to me for free in exchange for an honest review from Netgalley.
This was interesting. Trying to find what is empowering and not internalized misogyny can be tricky. This might help some women strive to find their own balance between the two.
This was interesting. Trying to find what is empowering and not internalized misogyny can be tricky. This might help some women strive to find their own balance between the two.
July 22, 2013
This is a really good book for women that are just beginning to delve into the intricacies of feminism. It goes over a lot of the basic tenet of 3rd wave feminism and has a lot of good resources for further research. It doesn't have as much analysis as other focused feminist books though.
March 11, 2019
A book uses simple language and practical advice to build up feminism. I expected to see more indeed analysis and description on the symptoms calling feminism and non-feminism. Anyways, it is good quick read to introduce an aspect of defining feminism.
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