On the first Wednesday of every month, GWL team members and volunteers share what we’ve read recently at our Book Picnic:
Feminist City: Claiming Space in a Man-made World by Leslie Kern
Recommended by Niamh, this non-fiction book examines the ways in which cities have been built with able-bodied men in mind, and therefore don’t always benefit women and other marginalized groups. Kern argues that urban spaces can be made more inclusive and empowering for everyone by recognizing and challenging the ways in which they have been shaped by patriarchal and capitalist systems. Through personal anecdotes, historical analysis, and case studies from around the world, Kern explores the concept of a “feminist city” and offers practical suggestions for how to make cities more just and equitable for all. The book ultimately encourages readers to reimagine urban spaces as sites of resistance and liberation, rather than just places for work and consumption. Niamh found the book incredibly interesting, and was particularly struck by the quote “cities are patriarchy built into stone.”
Winter People: Three Days, Three Strangers, One Question by Gráinne Murphy
Recommended by Anna, this novel follows three strangers who find themselves stranded in a remote coastal Irish town during a snowstorm. With no way out, they are forced to confront their pasts and their secrets as they get to know each other, and either thrive or disintegrate amidst the harsh winter conditions. As they search for answers, they begin to realize that the town and its inhabitants hold many secrets, and that their lives may be more intertwined than they ever imagined. The book is a suspenseful and atmospheric thriller that explores themes of family, loss, and redemption. Anna felt it was beautifully written, a perfect winter read, and loved it so much she has since purchased The Ghostlights, another novel by Murphy.
How to Stay Sane in an Age of Division by Elif Shafak
Recommended by Annie, this book was previously mentioned in our October 2020 book picnic. You can read about it here.
Annie loved how it felt like a conversation with Shafak, and found it to be a quick, easy read.
Against Borders: The Case for Abolition by Gracie Mae Bradley and Luke de Noronha
Also recommended by Annie, this manifesto argues for the abolition of borders and the end of the current immigration system. The authors contend that borders are arbitrary and unjust, and that they serve to uphold systems of power and inequality. They explore the history of borders and the ways in which they have been used to control and exploit marginalized communities, as well as the harmful effects of current immigration policies on individuals and societies. The book offers a vision for a world entirely without borders, one in which freedom of movement and equal rights are guaranteed for all. Annie has enjoyed the insights the book has brought her, and is taking her time with it as it is written in a very academic style.
City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert
This work of historical fiction, recommended by Pauline, is a coming-of-age story set in New York City during the 1940s. The story follows Vivian Morris, a young woman from a WASP family, who is sent to live with her eccentric Aunt Peg in Manhattan after dropping out of college. Aunt Peg owns a run-down theater called the Lily Playhouse, and Vivian becomes involved in the world of theater and showgirls. As World War II rages on, Vivian navigates the changing social norms and expectations of the time while discovering her own identity and place in the world. The book is a celebration of female sexuality, friendship, and the power of self-discovery. Pauline found it to be a great read, and read it far too quickly as a result.
Life Lessons From the Amazon: A Guide to Life From One Epic Jungle Adventure by Pip Stewart
This memoir was recommended by Gaby, who is about halfway through it. The book recounts the author’s journey into the Amazon rainforest and the life lessons she learned from the experience. The book follows Stewart as she joins a team of explorers on an expedition into the heart of the jungle, where she faces challenges and confronts her fears. Along the way, she reflects on the lessons she learned from the Amazonian people and the natural world, such as the importance of community, resilience, and mindfulness. Through her personal experiences and observations, Stewart offers practical advice and insights for readers seeking to overcome their own obstacles and live a more fulfilling life. Each chapter has a different heading and focus, and the book is a blend of adventure, personal growth, and cultural exploration. Gaby appreciated how genuine the book felt, and how Stewart was able to use the physical journey to relate to and discuss everyday aspects of life.
Hear No Evil by Sarah Smith
Recommended by Elaine, this piece of historical fiction is based on a landmark case in Scottish legal history. In 1817, a young, Deaf woman named Jean Campbell is witnessed throwing a child into the River Clyde. Robert Kinniburgh, a talented teacher and interpreter, is called in to assist and translate Jean’s account during the trial, without prejudice or bias. The richly atmospheric story offers a glimpse into the legal system and society of the time, shedding light on the struggles faced by women and the Deaf community. Elaine really enjoyed the writing style and strong characters.
Respectfully Disagree, The Swaddle Team (Podcast)
Recommended by Shalini, Respectfully Disagree is a podcast hosted by team members from The Swaddle, a Mumbai-based independent media company committed to diversity in media narratives. Each episode focuses on a different issue or aspect of Indian culture, politics, and society, and how it affects women. Some of the topics covered include feminism, nationalism, social media, and mental health. The podcast aims to create a space for civil discourse and to challenge listeners to think critically about the issues that shape contemporary India. One recent episode that grabbed Shalini’s attention was about women on television in India, and whether the portrayals were progressive or regressive. The hosts discussed how a “good woman” (who stays at home, and sacrifices and is subservient) is portrayed vs a woman who is a go-getter. They then spoke to female producers in the industry, who claimed that when they attempt to portray something new or different, the audience doesn’t want it. However, contradictorily, when they write for an online streaming service, they create content with more independent and forward-thinking women. So if there is a woman in India who doesn’t have access to these streaming platforms, she is often only shown the mainstream Indian soap opera content, with a more regressive idea of women. Shalini noted, however, that when she was growing up in the 80s, Indian TV was very progressive, with women who had dreams, goals and aspirations to study and pursue a career. Shalini is enjoying the various topics the podcast has covered, and expressed appreciation that the hosts and guests engaged in thoughtful and respectful discussions, even despite different opinions or approaches.
Peak Beyond Peak: Unpublished Scottish Journeys of Isobel Wylie Hutchison, Compiled and Transcribed by Hazel Buchan Cameron
This collection of travelogues and writings was recommended by our librarian Wendy, who has just begun to read it. The book has been carefully transcribed by Cameron, and helps provide a glimpse into the remarkable life and adventures or Scottish explorer Isobel Wylie Hutchison, who travelled extensively throughout the Arctic regions in the early 20th century. The book includes previously unpublished material, including diaries, letters, and photographs. This book will be the focus of a Story Café Special on 11th May at 1pm. You can learn more about this event and book in here.
Wendy also wanted to highlight the 30th March Story Café special with Trishna Singh OBE, who will be reading and talking about her new memoir, A Silent Voice Speaks. You can learn more about this event and book in here.
Finally, we would like to mention our World Book Night event, which will take place on 21st April at 2:30pm. This celebration will feature free books, a book quiz, book-and-poem-based discussion, and tea and cake (of course). You can read more about this event and book in here.
This content is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
