Florence Given’s debut feminist book will encourage young women to become feminists and social advocates, but only if they have the drive to change themselves.
Okay so ladies, have you ever felt less worthy because you didn’t shave, wear makeup or make a significant effort for work? I applaud you for having the strength to accept yourself if not. The truth is, life seems to be a lot easier if we stick to the rules patriarchal prison has set out for us. In a world which prioritises female desirability and rewards those who conform to beauty standard, it’s easy to see how slapping on some concealer or using a razor daily makes us feel better about ourselves. And men, if you happen to be reading this, Women Don’t Owe You Pretty encourages all of us to challenge our failed social standards, and I encourage you to read it.
At just 21 years of age, author Florence Given’s power starts with her ability to challenge ideologies of Western capitalism. She liberates her reader by exploring every avenue of self-growth, but at the same time takes accountability for her privilege as a cisgender, non-disabled white woman. Given reminds readers that although society has progressed (you may think differently after reading her book), historically there has been very little representation of marginalised identities in the media, and a lot of existing representations are actually quite harmful. By having these conversations in writing, Given opens up a dialogue of change.
‘Rallying, radical and pitched perfectly for her generation’- The Evening Standard
Pitched perfectly for our generation it is indeed. The book’s best attribute is its accessibility. Those of us who read a little bit more than the rest will appreciate it’s no academic masterpiece, but what’s great is it isn’t designed to be one. Women Don’t Owe You Pretty serves a younger audience the tool of learning and accepting their worth, needless to say it would benefit more experienced women too. There’s always room to challenge our behaviours. ‘Sometimes your subconscious is addicted to the comfort that comes from blaming others.’ She writes.
Illustrations throughout the book seek to answer uncomfortable questions. Given forces change. She knows what she’s talking about when it comes to modern intersectional feminism and her writing style denotes this. ‘patriarchy thrives when you sleep on your power.’
And if you happen to be a young woman who wishes to start challenging the patriarchy, read Women Don’t Owe You Pretty and watch yourself fall in love with the person society has kept you from becoming.
Women Don’t Owe You Pretty, £6,49 at Waterstones
