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2013 Feminist Reads Challenge

I'm excited to participate in two reading challenges this year, and the first is the Feminist Reads Challenge sponsored by The Hiding Spot.


Quoting Sara from The Hiding Spot:

"Personally, I love reading about girls and women that are capable of kicking butt and taking names. I'm not just talking about the girls out there who are physically able to do this, but about the girls who have the tenacity and courage to rise and reach and grow, no matter the life they've been born into, forced into, or ended up in by some unfortunate turn of events.

Every year I read many fantastic books from a variety of genres that feature women and girls that embody this spirit and determination.

Feminism is defined as:
  • A movement for granting women political, social, and economic equality with men.
True, but also fairly boring. I think Rebecca West summed it up pretty well we she said:
"I myself have never been able to find out precisely what feminism is: I only know that people call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that differentiate me from a doormat."
Here's how I define feminism and feminists:
  • Feminism is supporting and helping to create strong girls and women.Women who have the ability to take care of themselves, who believe in themselves, and who have the freedom to pursue their dreams and share their beliefs, values, and opinions.
  • Feminists encourage and support strength, independence, individuality, and passion in women of all ages.
  • Feminists fight for people. Yes, they obviously fight for women, but I think it can also be said that they fight for what is right. For equality for all. For every person to have a voice, an education, a fighting chance.
Therefore, any book that features, by your standards, a strong female character or supports feminist ideals is eligible for this challenge! Examples include: The Hunger Games, Divergent, The Dairy of Anne Frank, Matilda, The Handmaid's Tale."

Thank you for the great reading challenge, Sara! I'm already reading about a strong heroine in Trust in Advertising by Victoria Michaels. 

I'll go for the MEDIUM challenge, meaning I commit to reading 5-10 feminist books. Please join in by signing up at The Hiding Spot.


Comments

I've set my own challenge this year to read mostly local fiction or indie writers. Joining a group can be good for motivation.
Nicki Elson said…
Hey, you found a couple reading challenges! Very good. This year I'm just challenging myself to read more than I did last year (and that ain't much).

Oh, I have such a soft spot for Trust in Advertising. Hope you enjoy it.

I like Sarah's definition of feminism - especially the freedom to pursue beliefs & values and to support individuality.
Sara said…
Hi Jen! I'm so happy that you decided to participate in the challenge! Also, I love that in your bio you say that you love Grumpy cat. haha.

I look forward to your review of TRUTH IN ADVERTISING... Happy reading!! :)