Reviews

Not Funny Ha-Ha: A Handbook for Something Hard by Leah Hayes

aclopez6's review against another edition

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5.0

This was excellent in terms of the content. However, I would change the font to something a bit more readable (it is legible, but gives horror/scrawl vibes) and the title (the book wasn't funny in any way, and I think it is okay not to try to be something you're not!)

jess_mango's review against another edition

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4.0

I picked this up at the library mostly because graphic novels about women's issues appeal to me. It was a quick and informative read about a sensitive subject.

teresaalice's review against another edition

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5.0

This is the book I'm going to get my children to read when they ask me about abortion. Unfortunately, my son had a teacher in fourth grade that already discussed this procedure at length with his class, skewing towards the pro life side, so they already have heard the words. What they don't know yet, is that I have endured this procedure myself, and I intend to be completely open and honest with them when that time comes. This book is a perfect illustration of the thoughts feelings and experiences that accompany this procedure. I believe it should be required reading for all teams.

wrentheblurry's review against another edition

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4.0

A look at two women who decide to have an abortion, one through surgery and the other at home with medication (which I did not even know was a thing). It's tasteful and thorough, though certainly women considering abortions should check with their doctors instead of relying on the Internet, friends, or a graphic novel for advice. Still, this offers a solid look at what happens during an abortion.

shhherald's review against another edition

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5.0

This book is the kind of sexual and reproductive health education women deserve. Every Planned Parenthood clinic should have this book in the reception area.

gdulecki's review against another edition

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5.0

This was so cute oh my goodness. In this house we love abortions, and this was a beautiful visual about what it means to go through the experience of having an abortion. While I do recognize that women are the majority of people having abortions, the gendered language was kind of difficult to sit with as a trans guy. I will also say, it doesn’t touch on how abortion is more difficult to access for poor people, or for people who live in places that are more hostile towards abortion access. But for what it is, an informational book on the ins and outs of abortion procedures, this was very well done and I really enjoyed it.

evelikesbooks's review against another edition

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4.0

This is a super quick read, and it's just what it says. It tells the reader in a very conversational, down-to-earth style, what to expect when getting either a surgical or medical (both first-trimester) abortion. The author explicitly leaves out all the issues surrounding abortion, and just tells the story of how things went for the two protagonists, each getting one of the two kinds of abortion. No discussion of how they got pregnant, why they chose abortion, etc. -- that's not what the book is about. One thing that grated on my nerves a bit was the author's decision to refer to both of them as "girls" even though one is 23 and the other 31. But apart from that it's a very accessible and excellent overview of what happens in abortion.

notbanana's review against another edition

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4.0

Simple and direct in words and art this guide discusses the practical elements of having an abortion. Presented in an open and honest way allowing readers to be informed without finding judgment.

arianadcav's review against another edition

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5.0

i decided to revisit this book for the first time since i got it, probably six years ago. i believe this book was my first introduction to the difference between a surgical and medication abortion, and they were described so in-depth while still highlighting the stories of the two women who opted for each procedure. i've learned a lot more about abortion and repro over the years from organizing and work, and there are only a few minor things i would change about the book if i could, but i think it is a powerful and informative read! and the illustrations are lovely!

ashleyholstrom's review against another edition

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5.0

The yellow spine and title drew me in as I crawled through the graphic novel section of my library. Then the inside? It’s a guide for going through an abortion. Not in a gross way, not in a political way, not in a harmful way. It’s purely informational, with drawings of two women going through the process (making decision, following through, aftermath). Basically, it’s this: “You ended up in this situation. It’s a hard decision to make, but here are your options. Here’s what to expect, but OH MY GOD WE ARE NOT DOCTORS. Ask your doctor. Best wishes.” Before reading this, there were a lot of questions about abortion I wouldn’t have ever known to ask. So. Recommended reading for all Pro-Choice humans? All in favor, say aye.

From The Best Books We Read in October 2016 at Book Riot.