Mordant Belle

Feminism is for Everybody
by bell hooks, 2000, South End Press, 118 pages
Mel’s Reading Status: UNREAD

Commentary:
I bought this little book, read the introduction, and was amazed. bell hooks is a cultural critic and writer, one of the most well known second wave women of color (at least to me). Here she provides an excellent feminist primer that addresses the history and spirit of the feminist movement, one which DOES do a good job of addressing race and class issues (unlike Full Frontal Feminism, which was much more for white, middle-class women who were “hesitant to call themselves feminist”, though there certainly is a niche for such a book). I would definitely recommend this as an introductory text.

Summary, Description, and/or History:
A description of the book from South End Press’ web site:

hooks applies her critical analysis to the most contentious and challenging issues facing feminists today, including reproductive rights, violence, race, class, and work. With her customary insight and unsparing honesty, hooks calls for a feminism free from divisive barriers but rich with rigorous debate. In language both eye-opening and optimistic, hooks encourages us to demand alternatives to patriarchal, racist, and homophobic culture, and to imagine a different future.

hooks speaks to all those in search of true liberation, asking readers to take look at feminism in a new light, to see that it touches all lives. Issuing an invitation to participate fully in feminist movement and to benefit fully from it, hooks shows that feminism—far from being an outdated concept or one limited to an intellectual elite—is indeed for everybody.

Additional Comments always welcome.

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Full Frontal Feminism: A Young Woman’s Guide to Why Feminism Matters
By Jessica Valenti, 2007, Seal Press, 256 pages
Mel’s Reading Status: UNREAD

Commentary:
I haven’t read this book yet, but mixed reviews from the feminist blogosphere suggest it’s still a crucial addition to my shelf.

Summary, Description, and/or History:
The first book from the founder and Editor in Chief of Feministing. Received lots of criticism from women of color especially, as well as for the semi-condescending nature of the title (an unfortunate grammar choice), Girls Gone Wild connotations, and disembodied (white) nude cover image. Some, however, consider it a good introduction to feminist concepts, especially for younger women who are unfamiliar with the realities of feminism or hesitant to call themselves feminist. Ideal for teens and college undergrads, but mostly white middle-class audience. Focuses mostly on reproductive rights, sexism and misogyny, rape, and marriage, and Valentine’s Day. Does a poor job of addressing issues of race, class, and LGBT issues.

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