Given the current socio-political conditions of the world, we need to read feminist works more than ever. Multiple wars, climate calamities and economic slowdown—if you think feminism is just about having equal rights, it might be time for you to pick up a few literary works that will show you how systemic gender based violence is disrupting all of our lives.
The Bombay Circle Press is here with its handpicked recommendation reading list once again to get you started!
Ain’t I a Woman: Black Women and Feminism by bell hooks
Ain’t I a Woman? Black Women and Feminism is a 1981 book by bell hooks titled after Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech. hooks examines the effect of racism and sexism on Black women, the civil rights movement, and feminist movements from suffrage to the 1970s. She argues that the convergence of sexism and racism during slavery contributed to Black women having the lowest status and worst conditions of any group in American society.
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Pérez
Data is fundamental to the modern world. From economic development, to healthcare, to education and public policy, we rely on numbers to allocate resources and make crucial decisions. But because so much data fails to take into account gender, because it treats men as the default and women as atypical. Hence, bias and discrimination are baked into our systems. And women pay tremendous costs for this bias, in time, money, and often with their lives. Celebrated feminist advocate Caroline Criado Perez investigates the shocking root cause of gender inequality and research in Invisible Women, diving into women’s lives at home, the workplace, the public square, the doctor’s office, and more. Built on hundreds of studies in the US, the UK, and around the world, and written with energy, wit, and sparkling intelligence, this is a groundbreaking, unforgettable exposé that will change the way you look at the world.
The Essential Feminist Reader by Estelle B. Freedman, (Editor)
The Essential Feminist Reader is the first anthology to present the full scope of feminist history. Prizewinning historian Estelle B. Freedman brings decades of teaching experience and scholarship to her selections, which span more than five centuries. Moving beyond standard texts by English and American thinkers, this collection features primary source material from around the globe, including short works of fiction and drama, political manifestos, and the work of less well-known writers. Freedman’s cogent Introduction assesses the challenges facing feminism, while her accessible, lively commentary contextualizes each piece.
If you liked these reading recommendations of feminist works, then check out the bulletin board of The Bombay Circle Press for more such interesting lists!