By @JBayleyWrites
Privilege, energy, growth, insecurities, behaviour, and the real meaning of beauty.
Women Don't Owe You Pretty
‘Women Don’t Owe You Pretty’ is the best-selling debut novel from activist and illustrator Florence Given and even from the first page it is clear to see why sales have soared for this eye-opening book.
Described as ‘the ultimate book for anyone who wants to challenge the out-dated narratives supplied to us by the patriarchy’, it certainly is that. The entire premise of the book is to not only challenge the system, but to also challenge those values that have been instilled within many of us, often without us even realising.
That, I think, is the reason that Given’s book has been met with such a sensational response in terms of support and success. Not only does this book work to deconstruct the patriarchy and its values, but it also tells us in no uncertain terms that we need to look at our own internalised misogyny. And that is the most uncomfortable truth of all.
With twenty-one chapters full of new perspectives, inward-questioning, and the best advice you will ever receive, the overwhelming feeling of liberation you will feel will be totally worth the discomfort of evolving your beliefs.
An important part of feminist thinking that is often overlooked revolves around evaluating your own internalised misogyny, taking a long hard look at why it is you think about specific things in a certain way. However, rather than brushing over this aspect, this book delves deep into this, encouraging people to re-evaluate their mindset. Proving again that Florence Given is not here to sugar coat it or pander to anyone’s ego, and that is why this book works so well.
From personal details to overarching feminist theories and other opinions, Women Don’t Owe You Pretty is more than a reminder or self-help book. It is a lifestyle, and one of unapologetic freedom at that.
Now, all too often the word ‘feminist’ is treated as a dirty word and sometimes even regarded as being synonymous with ‘man-hater’ or other like terms. But this book embodies feminist values so well and it will not only empower women, but men also and anyone else who turns its pages.
While the book is marketed towards a female audience to an extent, its title is somewhat addressed to a male audience – proving that it is not a book for women exclusively. The book is beneficial to everyone, whether that is in addressing your privilege or removing some unhelpful words from your vocabulary. But do not mistake this empowering book for a set of rules, it is quite the opposite.
Punctuated by powerful and inspiring illustrations, which reinforce the chapters’ messages, this book is a must for anyone looking to remove some restriction from their life and open themselves up to new, healthier thoughts.
It is my number one recommendation- a book that shakes and challenges you to your core in the best way possible and I've yet to hear anyone disagree.