I Am a Feminist

April 15, 2019
Grades 8-11 Without shying away from discussions of intersectionality and the exclusion of women of color, Polak frames the arc of feminism in North America. She takes on the history of feminism?how men had the right to beat women, how rarely women were granted divorces?�and effectively compares Canadian and American history, examining the advancements made by women. In addition, she looks at different developing countries and the obstacles women face as they fight for access to education and health care and against sex trafficking. The photo-illustrated book also includes discussions of body image, love, workplace equality, and inclusive feminism. Readers will learn how to encourage men to be feminists, whether that is through supporting boys and men in expressing their emotions or by celebrating their pursuit of nontraditional careers, such as ballet or nursing. This nuanced book, which explores stories of real women working hard to change the world, will help passionate teenagers navigate life.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)

February 1, 2019

Gr 9 Up-Writing in a conversational and engaging style, Polak weaves personal experiences with interviews, history, and facts to explore feminism. The first chapter in this fast, accessible read covers the three waves of feminism, with the rest of the work focusing on specific topics-from body image to intersectionality to raising feminist boys. Each section is smartly designed; color and black-and-white photos of people involved in the equal rights movement are included, and an illustration opens each chapter. Thought-provoking sidebars will draw readers into current conversations. For example, the author presents many sides when discussing a nail polish that changes color if the wearer comes into contact with date-rape drugs: "Some rape-prevention activist have reservations about the new nail polish. They worry that it places responsibility on potential victims and could lead to more victim blaming." The extensive back matter will please researchers, though many of the references and resources focus on Canada; however, this does not detract from the overall message. VERDICT A first purchase for larger libraries, or a general buy for smaller ones.-Tamara Saarinen, Pierce County Library, WA

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 1, 2019
A volume that seeks to clarify the history and complexity of the meaning of "feminist" for a new generation of teens. Polak's (Passover Family, 2018, etc.) knowledgeable voice provides a simple yet comprehensive overview of key feminist issues, successfully highlighting the evolution of this social cause from the suffragists through the #MeToo movement of modern times. Beginning with a chapter on the different waves of feminism, Polak emphasizes how activists through the decades have fought for their belief in social, political, and economic equality for the sexes. In easily digested chapters, she explains the damaging effect of misogyny on women, Indigenous people and people of color, LGBTQ+ people, those who are impoverished, and disabled communities around the world. Rather than shy away from tensions in the movement, she highlights the need for intersectionality, encourages active involvement, and devotes a chapter to male feminists. If feminism is too often defined by the individual fight for autonomy, Polak is careful to clarify that all feminists must examine their own privilege and be aware of ways one person can be liberated at the expense of another. This amply illustrated introduction will spark discussion among teens who wish to make a difference in their community.From body image to date rape, pay inequality to sexual harassment, this guide introduces important topics that can be difficult for teenagers to discuss. (author's note, glossary, resources, references, index) (Nonfiction. 12-18)

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