Reviews

Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot by Mikki Kendall

kaeliwolf's review

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5.0

This was an experience. The author is blunt and entirely honest, this has changed my entire perspective and opened my eyes to the depths of my internalized racism. This is a must-read for everyone.

sarahsg's review against another edition

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challenging emotional informative slow-paced

3.0

Non fictions is always so hard for me. Don’t get me wrong, this is a an amazing read and covers some really interesting and difficult topics, but, as with all non-fiction, I felt like I was reading a text book at times. 
There was so much that I was aware of as effecting marginalised communities but never once did I connect that to feminism, or even simpler, as effecting women disproportionately. Eg wage gap vs housing crisis. 
My only criticism of this book (despite my personal ability to focus on non-fiction) is how little air time was given to Trans women which of course is not the authors personal experience.

This book called me out. I admit I am a performative feminist, I am fuelled by anger and more than willing to step away when a new flash point comes along. Mikki Kendall has caused me to reconsider my understanding of my role models in feminism. I need to do better.

aribabwa's review against another edition

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4.0

3.8/5 stars

As a feminist grappling with the challenge of articulating my thoughts, Mikki Kendall's book has been instrumental in helping me put some of those thoughts into words in a clear and effective way. The first two chapter are especially my favorite. However, this book does have some flaws that i would like to point out. I don't have any issues regarding the ideas, criticisms, and commentary presented in this book. In fact, i'm in agreement with almost everything the author said. My concern lies in the book's writing style.

In the realm of writing, Mikki Kendall's forte appears to be her skill in recounting personal experiences. However, when the narrative transitions from her personal journey to a more data-driven and argumentative approach, the writing, in my view, loses some of its allure. Also, considering my non-American background, the book's extensive focus on (mostly only) American laws, events, and research add an additional layer of detachment for me.

Regardless, i don't want to discourage anyone to read this book, because i do believe Hood Feminism serves as a vital text for feminists to gain awareness of the shortcomings within our movement. This awareness can be instrumental in fostering growth and inclusivity, allowing us to learn from our past and work towards a stronger, more inclusive movement.

difilippo717's review

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challenging emotional informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

5.0

freev's review

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5.0

This book was a wonderful gem I didn’t know I needed. As a single mother working effortlessly to change our circumstances, I have never felt more seen. There are hard truths in this book that anyone who calls themselves a feminist should read and come to know.

cheyennedowls's review

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challenging inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0


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_toni_'s review

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informative

5.0

ashleem76's review against another edition

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emotional informative inspiring medium-paced

5.0

breadhag's review against another edition

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challenging informative reflective medium-paced

5.0

libraryforspooky's review

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4.0

"Hood Feminism" by Mikki Kendall is a thought-provoking exploration of feminism from a perspective often overlooked by mainstream feminist discourse. I found it to be eye-opening and insightful, challenging me to broaden my understanding of feminism to include the diverse experiences of women of color.

Kendall's writing is both passionate and eloquent, as she delves into issues such as race, class, gender, and intersectionality. She skillfully unpacks the ways in which mainstream feminism has failed to address the needs and struggles of marginalized women, particularly those living in poverty or in marginalized communities.

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is Kendall's emphasis on the importance of addressing issues such as access to healthcare, affordable housing, and education, which are often sidelined in favor of more privileged concerns within the feminist movement. Her call for a more inclusive and intersectional feminism is both timely and necessary.

While I found "Hood Feminism" to be an enlightening and thought-provoking read, I would have appreciated even more in-depth analysis and exploration of some of the issues raised.

Overall, "Hood Feminism" is a powerful and important book that challenges readers to critically examine their own biases and assumptions about feminism. It serves as a reminder that true feminist solidarity requires acknowledging and centering the experiences of all women, especially those who have been historically marginalized. I give it four stars for its compelling insights and its ability to provoke meaningful reflection and dialogue.