Reviews (55)

Efron Is Real
As a university professor originally from New York City and definitely past the "baby Boomer" stage, I still found time to read Nora's essays and thoroughly enjoyed them."Sleepless in Seattle" and "You've Got Mail," are not "Hilarious" as so many people expect, but rather poignant portrayals of real-life human dilemmas presented in a lighter voice.Nora has been the one who can capture the rare moment within the chaos of reality, and her essays in the "neck" book do just that. This was obviously not meant to be the "book of the year," but a snapshot of the woman behind the captivating novels and films.The essays allow us to see that, she too, is aging with the rest of us, and it comes on all so quickly.I plan on gifting this book for the holidays, along with Gangi's "Forget The Cures, Find The Cause," and "Crazy Salad."The combination will help to get many minds and bodies on a better track.

A disappointment
I ran to get a copy of Nora Ephron's newest book, as I always liked her work. I'm glad I didn't spend the money, and instead got it from the library. I expected a very funny book that would be filled with wisdom and wit. Instead I found a slightly funny book that lacked originality and really had nothing to say. It would be too harsh to call it self-indulgent, but in a way it was. So she had a rent-controlled apartment that she loved, so parenting has changed,and so she has to dye her hair (often). Yawn yawn.
Women (and men) Will Love This Book
I was one of the 5 women in Azzarella's car going to Rayna Gangi's book signing(another great book, by the way) and all of us are at least over 50.Nora, the Golden Girls, even Oprah, will love these stories. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Aging    2. American Satire And Humor    3. Form - Essays    4. Humor    5. Women's Studies - General    6. Humor / Essays   

Reviews (8)

Arianna is a one of a kind woman
Ms Huffington shares precious knowlege and experiences. She is a great woman and a TRUE MODEL that young women like myself look up to. Read the book and make it yours .
Her best book and one with some great advise
Having read Ms Huffingtons earlier books, most of which were written when she was in the Republican camp, I was curious as to what the new book would be like and admit I was even hesitant, thinking she may have gone the extreme opposite. But I am so dang impressed and cannot recommend the book highly enough.
Because Women Need The Message
I rated this book with 4 stars because so many women are going to recognize themselves in this book; however, I didn't give it five stars because Huffington didn't go far enough into the female or human dilemma.We are riddled with fear because of history, the church, the state, but to make a statement "become fearless" and not back it up with the way to do it, leaves us empty.In Gangi's book, "Forget The Cures, Find The Cause," she also talks about fear, but fear as one of only two emotions, love being the other.To become fearless we have to embrace ourselves with unconditional love, not become warriors in the pack.Huffington's name will sell the book, but readers need to know there are stronger messages written with more heart. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Applied Psychology    2. Courage    3. Emotions    4. Miscellanea    5. Motivational & Inspirational    6. Personal Growth - General    7. Personal Growth - Self-Esteem    8. Psychology    9. Self-Help    10. Women    11. Popular psychology    12. Self-Help / Motivational    13. Women's studies   

Reviews (27)

Interesting read
I found the book interesting from the standpoint of the infinite emotional fluxuation women seem to deal with explained scientifically.As a man I have always wanted a woman, devoid of feminism and emotion to try to explain why women act the way they do.That is not to say that I feel superior, I have always just been facinated by the "differences" in how men and women think and how women approach issues, problems, and joys differently than men.I have been married to the same woman for over 35 years, and have had a constant, close companion as a study.
Not a Scientist
I am not a scientist, researcher , or doctor and therefore can't comment on the extensive reviews done by those in the clinical fields; however, I can comment on the use of "cutesy" language and the "dumbing" down approach to the female brain.How much research is being done on the ethereal energy that separates male and female? Maybe I'm too "new age" or alternative-minded, but I've learned alot more about gender differences, male and female energy, female brains and reactions from Deepak Chopra, Rayna Gangi and Andrew Weil than I did from this fairly bad attempt.

WORTHLESS
Actually, this book has negative value: Not only can I not give it to anyone, for fear of perpetuating the notions therein; but I can't throw it away without wasting a couple pounds of paper.
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Subjects:  1. Brain    2. Human Neuroanatomy    3. Mental Health    4. Neuropsychology    5. Neuroscience    6. Physiology    7. Psychology    8. Psychology Of Women    9. Women    10. Women's Health - General    11. Women's Studies - General    12. Science / General   

Reviews (28)

good material - too bible thumping though.. love your wife
The book follows on the vein of 'men are from mars, women venus', both excellent for men and relationships (not for dating). To be honest the authors admit the survey of womens results will be slanted to reflect their christian background. The points made are 'Excellent'... no really they are..... but his wife is a woman columnist writer(read feminist) and he goes on to bash 'porn' (he neglects that 51% of all books sold are romance novels...... the same as porn for males, how many women go to movies and drool over brad pitt etc?). If you're going to do a survey then give us the results of how women think without the christian lecturing.... isn't it about time men can honestly admit to women, that yes we enjoy looking at women, even naked women.... without having to be lectured we're bad...... author needs to explain and accept male behaviour as it is, not as how he wants it to be..... warts and all. Feminists had to do this for women!
Love IS Possible between the sexes
Finally you Can Understand Her! Women, complicated and impossible to understand? Do you love and want to please the woman in your life, but just can't seem to figure her out? That was before For Men Only . Now at your fingertips is the tool that will unlock the secret to her mysterious ways. Through hundreds of interviews and the results of a scientific national survey of women, this book demonstrates that women are actually not random and that they really can be systematized and mapped. In fact, much to men's delight, this book shows that women are actually quite easy to understand and please as long as you know what it is they need. This simple map will guide you to loving your wife or girlfriend in the way she needs to be loved.

Please read the book before you review the book! Duh.
Two purposes for writing this review. First is that I LOVED the book.Jeff Feldhahn nailed the basic issues involved with understanding woman-kind a little better with humor and intelligence. Well done!
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Subjects:  1. Christian men    2. Christianity - Christian Life - Marriage    3. Christianity - Christian Life - Men's Issues    4. Conduct of life    5. General    6. Men (Christian theology)    7. Psychology    8. Psychology Of Women    9. Religion - Marriage & Family    10. Social Institutions    11. Sociology - General    12. Women's Studies - General    13. CHRISTIAN LIVING / PRACTICAL LIFE / MEN    14. Family & Relationships / Marriage   

Reviews (2)

Great Self-Help/Success Book for Christian Women
The Confident Woman is a great book for Christian women who feel a calling to do more in their lives (regardless of their age). Joyce leads you through claiming your confidence, becoming bold without being overbearing, and overcoming fear in order to succeed in life.In the beginning of the book she covers Adam vs. Eve issues and weaves the message that men and women are and should be partners not enemies.Keep your bible with you for this book as you may want to cross reference, although most biblical passages are included in The Confident Woman, some are only mentioned to be referenced.

A great book encouraging its target audience to have a positive, "can-do" attitude
In "The Confident Woman: Start Today Living Boldly and Without Fear," the writer Joyce Meyer encourages women to start thinking positively and more confidently about their abilities. She provides a set of seven guidelines that are designed to help them accomplish just that. There are also passages in the book showing that any woman can be an independent, fearless leader and she wastes no time in proving to them that even God has their support, as indicated by the inclusion of several Biblical passages, in which they learn how God feels about them. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Christian Life    2. Christian women    3. Christianity    4. Christianity - Christian Life - General    5. Christianity - Christian Life - Women's Issues    6. Religion    7. Religion - Christian Life    8. Religious aspects    9. Religious life    10. Self-confidence    11. Women    12. Women And Religion (General)    13. Women's Studies - General    14. Religion / Christian Life   

Reviews (67)

A Dr. Laura Avoider
I have avoided Dr. Laura, her books, and her radio program for many years, fearing she would say something about me I didn't want to recognize.Ten Stupid Things did just that.How sad it is that women have such low self-esteem(though Gangi in her book explains this more as the lack of self-love)that they feel they have to settle for whatever and, more importantly, whomever pays any attention to them. If we would think twice, look in the mirror and truly love the person looking back, maybe we could lower the count from 10 to 1 or 2.

Makes good points despite brute force style
A lot of the mistakes listed in the book are dead on.For women who continue to make the same damaging choices into adulthood, this book could serve as a good wake up call.I do think the "pull yourself up by your own boot-straps" kind of advice falls short .And her own life examples of "look at me, I just willed myself to be strong" aren't exactly edifying.Someone who needs this advice the most might be turned off by her initial unsympathetic style and then not take in the good nuggets.In other cases, it could be the exact style and message someone needs.

someone is retarded
i havent actually read this book, although i plan to. i would just like to say that mike rotch, the retard a few comments down, really should learn how to speak/write english before he knocks a book.i could not for the life of me understand what the hell he is talking about. sneezing? from a book? issues man, issues.hmmm, will he ever be published? a resounding no. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Human relations    2. Man-woman relationships    3. Personal Growth - Success    4. Psychology    5. Women    6. Women's Studies - General    7. Mind, body, spirit: mysticism & self-awareness    8. Self-Help / General    9. Women's studies   

Reviews (28)

One of my favorite books of all time!
This book delves deeply into the heart issues behind many of our actions. In reading this book, I was most convicted about allowing my circumstances to dictate my behavior. Nancy speaks heavily on the responsiblity we each have to find our joy in Christ and not in our circumstances, which is something that's good for every women to be reminded of.

Outstanding book for all women
This is one of the most succint and direct books I've ever read for a woman who wants to live a Godly life.I loved it so much that I bought one for my mom and best friend.She is direct and clear with her writings and I felt that it applied to all Christian women who desire to truly walk the walk.Life applicable.
Lies Women Believe
This book had a lot of extreme views.Demoss generalizes constantly.I felt she twisted scripture to explain her point of view.I did gleam some good out of the book.I am a fairly new Christian and I felt it was more harmful then good.I felt it could give a Christain women a feeling there are only absolutes to God's way, that we are not individuals.I felt it weighed me down more than lifted me up.I had to go back to God's word and study because at times I felt the study was toxic.I think Demoss is very biased and narrow minded.I would especially not recommend it if you are a new Christian.I also about group study I would only recommend it if you are with seasoned Christians who are willing to be objective about this book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Christian Life    2. Christian women    3. Christianity    4. Christianity - Christian Life - General    5. Christianity - Christian Life - Women's Issues    6. Religion    7. Religion - Christian Life    8. Religious aspects    9. Religious life    10. Truthfulness and falsehood    11. Women's Studies - General    12. Religion / Christian Life   

Reviews (16)

The Beauty Within
Ironically I was in a spa getting a facial when I picked up a copy of this book.After I read it I had to buy it.The photos and the quotes in it are so poignant and true to the "real" women who said them.To me it is a fascinating book that every woman should have on her coffee table.It really makes you feel, no matter what your stage in life, that real beauty comes from within.

These women are wonderful.
This book is a wonderful celebration of the strength and lifetime beauty of the some marvelous women.Their images and insights give encouragement to women of all ages that "the best is yet to come."This would be a great book for a discussion group.I first saw it in my doctor's office.The best part of the book is that it is real.

Wise Women
inspirational and honoring of the beauty of aging wise women both of their physical and their inner selves ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 1945-    2. Older women    3. Photo Essays    4. Photoessays & Documentaries    5. Photography    6. Photography of women    7. Portraits    8. Subjects & Themes - Portraits    9. Tenneson, Joyce,    10. Women's Studies - General    11. Elderly    12. Photographs: portraits    13. Photography / Portraits   

Reviews (21)

Such a wonderful book
I have found myself in some difficult situations in the past year. This book is wonderful and I use it as a tool to focus my life more toward God. I feel so much better after reading it. I completely reccomend it for those who need that spirituality in their lives.

I found what I was seeking
I am a newly practicing Christian, having found myself at a low point in my life.I was looking for guidance on delving deeper into a relationship with God and this book has given me new life.It is a remarkable book on how to deepen, strenghten, and improve your connection to God.I would highly recommend it.I take my time reading the chapters and slowly read the prayers.After praying along with the book, I am closer to God and I include my own "conversations" (prayers) :)
A Must Read for Any Woman!
This book is amazing and Heaven sent!I went to the bookstore searching for something and I was not sure what.I was looking for guidance.I came across it and skimmed through to realize it was what I wanted and needed.I have had so many questions and have longed for a deeper spiritual life with only confusion on how to achieve that.This book has opened my eyes and my heart and changed my life.It is easy to read and easy to understand.Stormie writes in such a way that you feel as if she wrote the book for you.
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Subjects:  1. Christian women    2. Christianity    3. Christianity - Christian Life - General    4. Christianity - Christian Life - Women's Issues    5. Christianity - General    6. Prayer    7. Religion    8. Religion - Inspirational/Spirituality    9. Religious life    10. Christian life & practice    11. Christian prayerbooks    12. Religion / Prayer    13. Women's studies   

Reviews (38)

A Decent Read
Reading about some of these kids, especially Frank, made me thank God I had parents who thought I pushed myself too hard, who told me to relax. However, Robbin's solutions seem too thrown out there. Most of them are a lot easier said than done. Like throwing out the SAT. That won't happen anytime in the forseeable future. I also would have liked to see a more-balanced argument. More input from admissions officers who count on all of the overachiever activities. It definitely would have made for a more engrossing read.

Recollections from an "average" kid...
The author's writing style does an excellent job of bringing these young people to life, and it seems easier to feel sympathy for these youngsters than it was to empathize with the rather bitchy young adults she described in "Pledged".
A real eye-opener
This books offers an insider's view of driven kids and their crazy over-achieving lifestyle.I grew up in a relatively small city in the South, and we had just a few of these type of over-achievers at our school.It was alarming to see what lengths these kids go to to get ahead and pad their transcripts and resumes.It also details many of the problems with the education system today.I highly recommend for anyone interested in the problems facing education in the US. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Anthropology - Cultural    2. Case studies    3. Children's Studies    4. Cultural And Social Anthropology    5. Overachievement    6. Secondary Education    7. Social Science    8. Sociology    9. Social Science / Women's Studies   

Reviews (51)

They Finally Get To Tell Their Stories...
What a fantastic book. I saw a short write up for it in a popular women's magazine, and though I never before had any interest in this subject, I was intrigued. I'm so glad I read it. I can't believe the things these poor scared young women had to go through. Most being pretty much abandoned by their families, and sent to 'homes for unwed mothers'...all because society of the 50's and 60's said it was unacceptable to be a pregnant, unmarried woman.
I lived with the Aftermath of my Mother's History....
My mother was a "Girl who Went Away"...a fact that I didn't learn until I was in my mid-twenties.
Such an important book which sheds light on the past as well as the present
Fessler has compiled a very moving collection of oral histories from mostly white, middle class women who were coerced to relinquish their babies as teenage unwed mothers.Many of their stories recount how little they knew about sex and pregnancy, and their very ignorance makes a strong indictment of the social norms of the times, when the sexual appetites of teenage girls were denied. The saddest stories are told by women who saw their pregnancies as the culmination of their love affairs and as the beginning of family life with their babies' fathers.To protect the reputation of their own families, parents of these girls turned to the adoption industry and the babies disappeared.Young mothers were told that they would forget about this early 'mistake' when they married and had more children. They were also told that they were not competent to be parents, and that other couples were more worthy.Many of the storytellers in this book carried that sense of unworthiness with them throughout their adulthood until, aided by reunion with their now adult surrendered children, some are able to heal.
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Subjects:  1. Adoption    2. Adoption And Adoption Services    3. Birthmothers    4. Psychological aspects    5. Social History    6. Social Science    7. Sociology    8. United States    9. Women's Studies - General    10. Women's Studies - History    11. Social Science / Women's Studies   

Reviews (122)

Life Altering
This book has changed my life and has help me over come so many problems I didn't even know existed. Amust read for someone needing to heal!
Please don't...
Please, please, please, don't go near this book. It does not have any valid answers for you but will only create perpetual problems with your self and those around you. If you have problems, seek out professional help (not those with Freudian principles or suppression theories). This book can only cause more harm than good.
Misleading and horrible
If anyone has ever done any research into the fields of congnitive psychology or memory, you'll realize how incredibly awful this book is.
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Subjects:  1. Abuse - Sexual    2. Adult child abuse victims    3. Child sexual abuse    4. Psychology    5. Self-Help    6. United States    7. Women    8. Women's Studies - General    9. Self-Help / General   

Reviews (79)

Are their situations whenthere is no love that is too much?
I believe this book points to an important human problem , loving too much. And this when that totally devoted - self- sacrifical love is an effort to change a person who will not be changed, to please someone who will not be pleased. This kind of love as Norwood rightly points out often has its origin in our failure to have the love of a parent.
Concise and rich
The content in this book can be applied to adult children.
This book can save your life! 100 stars!!!
This is the best book out there for women who feel they are trapped in an abusive or substance abuse tainted relationship. It helps you understand how you ended up in the relationship in the first place, and then helps you proceed to put YOUR life back together, and to take care of YOURSELF. Yes! It really is OK to do that. More than OK, it's mandatory. Not only for yourself, which IS your primary concern, but to be honest, your getting your act together again actually helps plant the seed for your dysfunctional drug addicted or abusive mate to maybe start making the changes in his life that must take place for him. This is a MUST READ!!!!!! If you are in one of these types of relationships this is THE BOOK to read! There are some others I recommend as well, Claudia Black's "It Will Never Happen to Me! and the book "Perfect Daughters" by John Ackerman, and also the book "Codependant No More" by Melanie Beatty. These are all MUST READS for any of you out there seeking help and guidance in respect to your various dysfuntional relationships. I just got a call from an old friend who I never expected in a million years would call me and tell me she and her husband were splitting up after years of secretly keeping from us that she was in a drug-infested and emotionally unavailable relationship. I am taking my personal copies of all of these books to her today. That's how strongly I feel. Help YOURSELF, because when you try to help him, you just make it easier for him to stay the way he is. It's the truth. HE is the ONLY person who can help himself, and he has to get to a point where he is ready to do that. It can take a really long time for some men, and some men never get there, not even for the women and children in thier lives. But, YOU CAN have a happy life. Yes....whithout him. You can, you really can, and you will be well on your way if you're willing to do some reading and take the advice of other women who have been through it. Now is the time to invest in yourself. Do it. You wont regret it! Your happiness depends on it, and maybe even your life. Read. You wont be sorry you did. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alcoholics    2. Family relationships    3. Interpersonal Relations    4. Love    5. Psychological aspects    6. Psychology    7. Women    8. Women's Studies - General    9. Social Science / Women's Studies   

Reviews (1)

A Miracle of Human Connection: Turning Horror to Grace
This is the most honest, open and at the same time powerfully revolutionary book I have ever read. Not only because of the masterful truth-telling that leaps from its pages, but also because of the unique weave of Ensler's deeply personal story with her experiences from around the world. It is a moving convergence of emotional nakedness, fierce and factual reportage and the pure wonder of witnessing the miracles created by those who have learned, as Eve says, "to find freedom, aliveness, and power not from what contains, locates, or protects us but from what dissolves, reveals, and expands us." This book is one of those miracles. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 21st century    2. Case studies    3. Feminism    4. Feminism & Feminist Theory    5. Gender Studies    6. History    7. Social Science    8. Sociology    9. Sociology Of Women    10. U.S. - Contemporary Politics    11. Women    12. Women's Studies - General    13. Self-Help / General   

Reviews (49)

Necessary Read
This book is truly the only book necessary to read about men.It doesn't advocate games or 'rules' or useless techniques.Rather, it instills a mindset of being in control of YOURSELF.In the end, it really isn't about "getting" the guy or "figuring him out".Those days are "so over"!!You learn about how to treat yourself and in this manner you teach him how to treat you.See, it's a matter of HIM fitting into YOUR life... not your having to ACCOMODATE HIS WHIMS.Most important, by valuing who you are, you are helping to bring out the best in him!What a read!

Living it and Loving it
I wish I read this book years ago.I've definitely learned the hard way of the "nice girl" that she speaks of.I can relate to all the principles because I now practice them and its good to read a book the reconfirms the way I am to men.
Attitude is Everything
This is a must read for all women, single or married.Sherry's writing style and sense of humor are right on.I've already used a few of the techniques in this book on a guy I am currently dating and it works. My guy friend now calls me when he says and can't wait to see me.I am now the one in control of what I want in a man.Thank you Diva Sherry! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Courtship    2. Family & Relationships    3. Family/Marriage    4. Interpersonal Relations    5. Life skills guides    6. Love & Romance    7. Love / Sex / Marriage    8. Man-woman relationships    9. Marriage    10. Psychology Of Women    11. Single heterosexual women    12. Women's Studies - General    13. Family & Relationships / Love & Romance    14. Marriage, family & other relationships   

Reviews (4)

Restoring Faith in Humanity
Years ago, when I lived in Washington, DC, I had the privilege to know Zainab Salbi when she was first starting Women for Women (called Women for Women in Bosnia at that time).There was a glow of inspiration in her face when she spoke of the plight of women and there was also incredible strength in her.In a time when I am often ashamed of the gross inhumanity we practice upon our fellow man, women like Zainab and the others courageous enough to share thier stories in this book, restore my faith that one day humanity will actually deserve to call itself civilized.Until then, we must rely on the courage of the few, who like Zainab, see beyond themselves and into the hearts of the world.

The Other Side of War- Captivating, Encouraging and REAL
Once again Zainab Salbi and Laurie Becklund have brought a riveting picture of the reality of war from the perspective of those who are left to hold the pieces together- the women. My organization, Soroptimist International, has been working in partnership with Women for Women International on a project called Project Independence Women Survivors of War for 3 1/2 years and I have had the privilege to go "to the field" on three occasions and meet women in the program. It is not an accident that this amazing organization, through the leadership of Zainab- was just awarded the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Award last month. They are the first women's organization to ever recieve it- and the impact of the $1.5 million dollar gift will continue to transform lives of women who are currently socially isolated and desperate and in one year- they will be well on towards their journey of becoming self sufficient and active citizens. These stories are genuine, courageous and TRUE "snapshots" of the unspeakable costs of war- particularly on women. This is a must read! Dawn Marie Lemonds, Soroptimist International

Beautifully inspiring
Zainab Salbi's new book is a beautifully inspiring example of photo journalism and the heart-rending story about the other side of war. It will make a wonderful gift for the holidays. The women in the pictures reach out from the pages and touch your heart, while Salbi's words touch your soul. The message truly inspires me to not only be more thankful for all that life has given me, but also more understanding to what life has given others and seek out more ways to help these women survivors of war. The organization, Women for Women International is an amazing organization, doing amazing work; this new book is equally amazing! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Collections, Catalogs, Exhibitions    2. Crimes against    3. Gender Studies    4. Military Personal Narratives    5. Social Science    6. Social conditions    7. Sociology    8. Sociology Of Women    9. Women    10. Women and war    11. Women's Studies - General    12. Cultural studies    13. Social Science / Women's Studies   

Reviews (278)

Sad, yet Excited Story
I am only about halfway through "Princess," yet I absolutely adore it. Seeing what actually happens in Saudi Arabia, even to princesses, makes me want to help them. Nobody deserves to be treated the way she does, and I hope that someday, I'll be able to help Sultana and many others fight for women's rights. It's time we took a stand.
A must read!!!!
I currently reside in Geneva, Switzerland and was curious to know more of the veiled women that I see walking the streets in the summer. This story is riveting to say the least and to know that these customs still exist is saddening. I would have never believed until I saw it with my own eyes. Saudi Royals in stretch limos, their entourage in tow, rolling out the red carpets, literaly, as 10 individuals empty out a Louis Vutton store. They were purchasing 10+ bags ranging over $2000.00 a piece. It was a site. Their wives following behind them like wounded yet well trained dogs. Sasson captures, what I believe, to be the true essence of Saudi Royal life.

Couldn't put it down!
This book...is overwhelming to say the least. But it's excellent. It really opens your eyes to the way things are over there. Some items will appall and make you sick but others will make you smile. Can't wait to read the rest in the series! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 1956-    2. Biography    3. Biography & Autobiography    4. Biography / Autobiography    5. Biography/Autobiography    6. General    7. Middle East - Saudi Arabia    8. Princesses    9. Saudi Arabia    10. Social conditions    11. Sultana,    12. Women    13. Women's Studies - General    14. Women's Studies   

Editorial Review

An inspired blend of memoir and literary criticism, Read more

Reviews (287)

A book of books.
Nafisi's memoir, "Reading Lolita in Tehran", takes its readers deep into the life of a woman living under the ever increasing repression of the Iranian regime.She is an academic whose love of books drives her to use them as lenses through which to view the horrifying events that surround her. Each of the book's four sections takes the works of a different author and uses them to illuminate aspects of the oppressive Islamic regime under which she lives. The book presents a startlingly vivid picture of day to day life in Iran as suffered by a woman who, though very intelligent, is unsure of whether her allegiances lie with her government or with the west. Though Nafisi explains the political events surrounding the Iranian revolution and the Iran-Iraq war, she does so not from the view of the history that's been written, but from the view of a citizen living in the times, providing an essential shift in perspective.
A Stunning Reality
Although many people might question whether everything in this novel is true or not, it states on the front that it is a memoir, therefore that is how I thought of it while reading.As far as I am concerned, everything but the names and some situations ("to protect individuals") is the truth, and since I have not been to Tehran, I would not know any different.I found this book captivating in most every way from the detailed descriptions of the "girls" in the book club to the references to other novels such as The Great Gatsby.Although I have not read all of the books Nafisi referenced in her memoir, I still understood her story and appreciated her sharing the private (or public) moments with her readers.I was shocked when I read about some of the laws that women (and men) must obide by in Iran, and this book sparked my interest regarding the stunning ways of the country enough from the very beginning to encourage me to look even further into the culture.Being a secondary education English major, I would suggest this book to anyone from the age of 13 on, with hopes that he or she would read it, appreciate it, and try to gain some knowledge on a very different culture than our own while recognizing the everyday freedoms we take for granted on a daily basis.

A Vision of a Fundamentalist's Dream
If anyone wants to know what living in post-revolution Iran is like for a woman, this is the book.Great detail is given to how the messages of western literature apply to life in the theocratic totalitarian state. The scariest thing, for me, is how closely the vision of Iran held by muslim extremists conforms to the stated vision of the U.S. held by christian extremists.This touched me with reality the way The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood touched me with fictional possibility.
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Subjects:  1. American literature    2. Biography    3. Biography & Autobiography    4. Biography / Autobiography    5. Biography/Autobiography    6. Books & Reading    7. Books And Reading    8. English literature    9. English teachers    10. Ethnic Cultures - General    11. Iran    12. Regional, Ethnic, Genre, Specific Subject    13. Study and teaching    14. Women    15. Women In Islam    16. Women's Studies - General    17. Biography & Autobiography / Women    18. Reading Group Guide   

Editorial Review

Ariel Levy’s debut book is a bold, piercing examination of how twenty-first century American society perceives sex and women. Writing vividly, she brings her readers to places she visited to make her assessment; the elevator of Playboy Enterprises with women auditioning to be Playmates in the fiftieth anniversary edition, a Florida beach where sunbathers urge a woman to take off her bathing suit for the camera crew of Girls Gone Wild, a San Francisco Italian restaurant where a lesbian worries she’s not dressed up enough for her date, a CAKE party in New York, with women grinding each other’s pelvises in time to pulsating dance rhythms, and outside a juice bar in Oakland where a beautiful high school student shares disappointment at her experiences with sex. Read more

Reviews (58)

Another Guys Perspective
I just finished reading FCP, and have to say it was one of the most engaging books I've read in quite a while. It was a quick read (one day) while still being extremely thought provoking and engaging. I won't waste my time summerizing the book (plenty of others do that below)...but I truly enjoyed the way she challenged (gently to my mind) the widely prevailing point of view of women's sexuality and power. She did a terrific job of setting up the context, looking at the different historic and social forces that have shaped the current state of affairs, and made, overall, quite a compelling case.