Staying in the Game

A debut guide deals with workplace sexual harassment. In this self-help book, Lawrence--a lawyer-turned-sports journalist who sued ESPN, charging that she suffered harassment while working there--addresses a predominantly young and female audience. She explains what sexual harassment is, how to combat it, and how to respond to it. The manual dissects the different forms harassment may take, the people who enable and perpetuate it, and the possible outcomes for women who challenge it both privately and publicly. With references to some of the well-known harassment cases of the last few years as well as situations that have been less widely publicized, the volume presents a comprehensive picture of the problem in professional settings. In addition to the practical and professional impacts of harassment, the book also explores the psychological effects, offering suggestions for managing and getting help if necessary. The author also touches on intersectionality and power dynamics as factors in harassment and the work environment. Although men's harassment of women is the guide's primary focus, men's victimization is discussed as well; the book features cases of women committing and perpetuating harassment. Readers will either find Lawrence's casual style of writing breezy and conversational or overly slangy and millennial-pandering (perpetrators are referred to throughout as "harassholes"; phrases like "Chloe from college doesn't have it all together despite how gorge she looks on the Gram" pepper the text). But even those who prefer a different narrative voice will find it easy to follow the volume's ample information, with end-of-chapter summaries and callout boxes highlighting key points. The manual is realistic in its approach, examining the many levels of problematic, inappropriate, and dangerous behavior as well as the consequences victims may face if they complain to superiors or pursue litigation. For those who are new to the workplace, the book is a useful look at a common hazard that delivers pragmatic advice and effective solutions without sensationalism or fearmongering. A highly readable and informative introduction to managing workplace harassment.

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