Ursina's Shelf - Women’s Voices
Issue 13
Dear Readers,
2020 is drawing to a close and I am starting to reflect on my reading this year. In February, I read Invisible Women and was once again shocked at how underrepresented female voices are. This is true for books and authors too and so I committed to an effort to read more books by women, a challenge I soon expanded to include a focus on books by BIPOC authors. I look forward to continuing to challenge myself to select and read more diversely in 2021, but first let me share a few of my favorite female voices.
Women's Voices
Invisible Women: Exposing Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado-Perez (2019)
Description: This work focuses on well-researched findings from a myriad of studies demonstrating how women and their needs are often “invisible” from public policy to business decisions, in particular through a bias in data that do not consider women as different. From car testing procedures that only use male dummies to clinical drug trials that exclude women due to the complexity of the menstrual cycle, Criado-Perez offers a breadth of eye-opening examples.
My Take: Dominic gifted me this book and I did not quite know what to expect based on the title. Despite the many references to scientific studies and examples, the book becomes an easy read, while the subject is mind-boggling and shocking. I am certain this is the book and set of facts that I have referenced most in my conversations this year.
Bonus tip: Dominic also gifted this book to a female mentor and I agree this is a great book to gift, if you are still looking for a last minute present.
Marathon Woman: Running the Race to Revolutionize Women's Sports by Kathrine Switzer (2007)
Description: Kathrine Switzer is most well-known for the iconic photos from the 1967 Boston Marathon, where race directors tried to pull her of the course. Switzer represents so much more than being a “first woman”, she went on to be a sports journalist and race director herself, orchestrating the multi-year plan that would bring the women’s marathon to the Olympics, a feat achieved at the 1984 Games in Los Angeles.
My Take: As a runner, I was terrified to learn that in the 60s running more than 1.5 miles was considered unhealthy for women (because their uterus could drop out!). Switzer’s story’s main message though is not about that iconic picture or being the first woman to do something. No, it’s about the determination and years-long work to stand up for and do what you believe in, and also about the community of women and men who rallied behind her, including familiar names like Billy Jean King, Fred Lebow, and Ted Corbitt.
Bonus Fact: I recommend the audio book read by the author herself and this interview on one of my favorite podcasts, the Clean Sports Collective.
The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World by Melinda Gates (2019)
Description: In her book, Gates makes a thorough case for investing in women to make the world better. She lays out examples and data together with her personal journey leading the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. She brings together facts, research, and expertise with many personal experiences from women she has met during her activities for the foundation.
My Take: Admittedly I read this book last year, but its message certainly resonated in 2020. The writing and stories flowed easily and I found myself admiring both Gates and the many women she has worked with and met. And while Gates and her husband’s philanthropic generosity may seem far out of reach, we can all stand up for the simple solutions she proposes, such as education and birth control.
Bonus Fact: Melinda’s husband Bill also loves books, and frequently shares his recommendations. Here his latest: 5 good books for a lousy year.
A “short” list of further reading
As the year is ending soon, some of you may be looking for shorter books to achieve your reading goals. Three perfect options include:
Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik. This pop culture book based on a blog reads more like a tribute than a book and will make you love RBG even more (if that is even possible).
We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. This TedX-talk-turned-essay embraces the definition of a feminist and provides a blueprint for championing women in the 21st century.
The Gutsy Girl: Escapades for Your Life of Epic Adventure by Caroline Paul. This young adult book by a fierce and fearless female will make you feel fiercer too. For a longer endorsement, see my Feel Good Reading issue.
Currently listening to: Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card.
I wish you all restful and cozy holiday and hope that your celebrations are merry whatever form they may take. I heard Santa may need to quarantine, but I hope your elves still deliver a book or two. Happy Holidays to All!