Reading for Wellbeing
Cranford by Elizabeth Gaskell
I also enjoyed it because it’s an escape, which is sometimes what reading should be – it’s funny and gentle but very true about people.
Fun home: a family tragicomic
It discusses unflinchingly themes of sexuality, gender roles, death and dysfunctional family, and all the while references Bechdel’s infectious love for literature, philosophy, and the works of great feminist and queer writers.
Wild geese
There is something about this poem that I find incredibly comforting. It always makes me cry, but in a good way!
The laughter of Stafford Girls’ High
This poem reminded me of those times of uncontrollable laughter which are so contagious. But I also found it empowering.
Gate C22
This is my favourite love poem, it is just beautiful!
Ms World
This is a short poem which I found truly empowering and liberating.
My face is a map
I think this poem highlights how wonderful it is to love and accept yourself as you are, and in a culture that’s becoming increasingly obsessed with body image, appearance and cosmetic surgery, that’s an important message for all woman to hear.
Remarkable creatures
This book is a reminder than women have always defied the rules imposed on them, and in this case it led to a woman making some of the most important discoveries of the time, and turning the theories of men upside down.
Older than time: a grandmother’s search for wisdom
We should look forward to all stages in our lives and this book gave me an idea of the kind of woman I aspire to become.