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avabudavari's profile picture

avabudavari's review

5.0

4.5/5. This was so amazing and inspiring, and is something that I think every young activist/every young woman needs to read. My only issue is that Margaret Sanger’s problematic history was not acknowledged while her accomplishments were. But other than that, this was outstanding and I’m so happy to have met Cecile. This has inspired me as an organizer, an activist and makes me want to get involved with planned parenthood.
readrunsea's profile picture

readrunsea's review

4.0

I really loved this memoir. Cecile Richards grew up entrenched in politics and activism, and her stories are fascinating and ultimately really hopeful. Plus it’s nice to hear a woman with power give no fucks about pandering to the right wing. That said, it would’ve been better if she had mentioned trans health care even once, considering her organization is one of the only places in the country where it’s provided.
biblioholicbeth's profile picture

biblioholicbeth's review

4.0

In some ways, it's hard to believe that women are still fighting for the fundamental right to health care and choice. And it's appalling that these decisions, particularly these days, are being made by old white men - many of whom have come from privilege and have never had to worry about health care access to treat things like endometriosis, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, pap smears...the only upside to all of this is the IMMENSE activism currently taking place. This book is both fascinating and infuriating (the kind of infuriating that covers the "Holy hell, why are we STILL having to worry about this?" kind of stuff...), and Ms. Richards does a great job of portraying both the ups and downs that have come along the way in her career. There is, of course, the infamous conversation with Jared and Ivanka...the congressional hearing where Jason Chaffetz showed his ability to look like a complete dumbass...the Women's March on Washington - Richards has been in the thick of so much of what will truly be remembered by history. She gives hope, and frankly - that's something we all could use more of right now.

arjunsingh's review

5.0

Cecile Richards is one of the most competent, dedicated and amazing public servants, leaders and organizers in America. This book has reflections, lessons and stories that had me in awe and inspired me.

The last chapter has one of my favourite moments. Here, Cecile describes her experience of meeting Ivanka and Jared and learning how absolute trash they are. Cecile stood up to them and stayed true to the values of Planned Parenthood and what the service does for so many people.

Read this memoir if you are looking for an answer to “So now what do I do?” Cecile has loads of answers and advice!

3.75 stars

A quick read about life as an activist.

What I appreciate most about Cecile Richards is her directness. There’s none of the vague passive language that plague so many of us ladies. But in that same vein, I don’t feel like I got to know her as a person. Who is she in the quiet time?

My big knock is that while she speaks of inclusivity, I think she could have / should have had a better, more honest take on Margaret Sanger. Sanger’s legacy of supporting eugenics and other racist policies must be acknowledged. While I believe Planned Parenthood has been a force for good, especially within my lifetime, acknowledging a racist past is part of the reckoning white women need to take on.

I will always love her for being a level-headed badass during the PP Congressional hearing in 2015, despite constant interruption by Republican men. Richards offers a legacy – beyond Planned Parenthood – to be inspired by, and I can’t wait to get vaccinated so that I can be out in my community making a difference.



zarsfrommars's review

5.0

An engaging and inspiring memoir about a life spent fighting for women’s rights. A great reminder that we only get what we fight for - nothing more.

hreeves95's review

5.0

This was one of the best books I have encountered in a long time. I loved learning from Cecile Richards and hope every woman can read and be inspired by her story.
kristenbritt's profile picture

kristenbritt's review

5.0

I love this book. It is thoughtful, insightful and inspiring. I’m ready to make more trouble.
kristenbyers's profile picture

kristenbyers's review

4.0

I'm not usually into nonfiction but this book was good. I enjoyed reading about Cecile's life experiences that have informed her work.
mari77's profile picture

mari77's review

5.0
adventurous challenging emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective sad tense fast-paced