Introducing Feminism

It is the presentation and design of this book together with its easy -to- read style which makes it exceptional in my opinion. Rather than the heavy-going politico-jargon I was expecting I found bite-sized chunks of fact, direct quotes and artistic representation of the topic.The book covers feminism right back from its roots to the present day (the authors being depicted on the final page). The illustrations are extraordinary if somewhat obscurred at times by the black and white format. They feature the works of key feminist artists but also depictions of important characters who converse via speach bubbles. This may sound somewhat childish but I did not find this to be the case. Issues covered include, historical and political events in the UK and abroad which led to the emergence of the movement, issues such as domestic tyranny and family roles, the role of the body, fertility, pregnancy and birth and pornography. There are a few what could be construed as explicit pictures which could possibly concern a parent who was thinking of buying it for children (the cover and the the use of "Introducing..." in the title giving it the feel of a school text book).I was refreshed to read so accessible and comprehensive a book and thoroughly recommend it.

As a teacher in women's studies I was hoping that this might make a good primer for my students. While it does a pretty good job as a history text, it really doesn't do a good job at introducing key concepts. This is especially true once it reaches the 1980s. I might also add that this text treats feminism as something that ended after the 80s. The book needs a good updating.In short, if you are already familiar with the feminist movement, then this book makes a nice pocket guide and reminder. If you are new to the concepts, I would start somewhere else rather than here.