published 9/22/26
As a proud feminist and history geek, I was so excited to get the chance to read Gloria Steinem’s memoir early. But instead of delivering a true memoir, she delivered a series of beautifully written essays- each can stand alone but together make a powerful narrative and path for the next generation to take up. A living legend and women’s movement icon, I couldn’t wait to get started. First, she was a voracious reader, and learning that one of her favorite authors was Louisa May Alcott is both surprising and familiar. As young women, we often fall in love with Little Women because they’re trying to break the mold of what ‘women are supposed to be during the Civil War’. Steinem’s rise to fame was wholly unintended- she learned about poverty through her travels to India, where the caste system oppressed women just for being alive.
By observing the power of nonviolent movements in India and other countries around the world, she realized she and her voice could be a bellwether for social justice. Her travels to India, where she saw the caste system oppress women just for being alive, deeply shaped her understanding. Of course, she had a lot of help with loud, brash voices that elevated her status- Bella Abzug, Shirley Chisholm, Fannie Lou Hamer, and bell hooks. The movement was more than women’s rights- it was an ideological shift in thinking. Women could do exactly what men can for equal pay and rights.
Yet, behind it all, we get a rare glimpse into Gloria’s thoughts on what has happened and how far we still have to go. Perhaps, most importantly, this book reminds us of a simple yet powerful message that remains so relevant today: There is no reason to fear someone else because of their skin color or beliefs. Steinem takes us on a journey through a lifetime and shows how we can still connect with Mother Earth and grow deeper roots of love rather than the shallow seeds of hate.
Rest in power and peace, Ms. Steinem, and thank you to Random House for the honor of reading this memoir early and for free through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#gloriasteinem #anunexpectedlife #libraryninja📚
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