Reviews

Women Don't Owe You Pretty by Florence Given

ashs_books's review against another edition

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3.0

I’m really torn because I can’t decide whether I liked this book or not. It was quite in your face (or my face

jademgreen's review against another edition

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2.5

A lot to unpack. I probably would've loved this book when I was a teenager but as someone almost in her 30's it felt very juvenile in some parts, especially regarding the complexity of friendships and relationships.

Florence says she's 21 when writing this, which makes a lot of sense. I'm not saying 21 year olds are immature but she also says she's had 1 male relationship and it wasn't a very good one, so I don't think she should be advising on those relationships without other experienced, credible sources/references.

Also saw the controversy too about a poc author from the same publishing house that had a v  similar book prior to Florence's.

Despite all this - I loved some of the quotes especially relating to people pleasing & actual feminism. 

weirdfishes22's review against another edition

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2.0

Im not really convinced by this book. Although it was fast and easy to read, the content wasn’t well presented. Florence Given talks about very important aspects in feminism and female empowerment, however her arguments aren’t laid out in an understandable way. A point is scratched at its surface and a statement is made, but then not explained. I haven’t been given the chance to understand the argument or statement because it just wasn’t written well.

To add on, the book isn’t well structured. The chapters mix up and a lot of different aspects are mentioned in a single sentence. On one hand it makes sense because it’s all connected to each other but on the other hand it’s confusing to read and the overview is easily lost.

On a different note, I disagree with the way some topics are treated. Florence Given often emphasises to drop people when it comes to disagreements. For example when they don’t want to use condoms (page 55). I think this showcases her intention to empower the people reading this book to stand up for themselves. In my opinion it is very important in the discussion of feminism and women empowerment to encourage people to speak up about their values, because it leads to healthy communication. In the case of the discussion about condoms, I think it would be more efficient or rather healthier to explain to the person that doesn’t want to wear a condom, why it is of such importance. Instead of dropping them it helps trying to make a change and encourage a healthy communication. It uplifts the readers to make a change also in other people and not just within yourself.

stuckerwrites's review against another edition

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challenging funny informative inspiring fast-paced

4.0

spinebreaker_101's review against another edition

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1.0

I probably would’ve enjoyed this book if I was 14 so maybe I’m not the right target audience for this.

The tone this was written in was also insufferably cringeworthy, you’d think the author was describing some kind of groundbreaking formula. In reality, it was an unimaginative regurgitation of everything we already know with a heavy sprinkle of buzz words and their definitions. No depth whatsoever. An attempt at intersectionality was made but the lack of depth prevented from any meaningful discourse to unfold. This is the kind of book that puts you off of feminist literature (mainly due to the obnoxious pov of a stereotypical white ‘radical’ feminist)



charlotte_bailey's review against another edition

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emotional funny informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

5.0

indigoivee's review against another edition

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funny informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

5.0

A refreshing and inspiring exploration of modern feminism, self-love, and empowerment, particularly those who are eager to challenge societal norms and embrace their individuality, and are looking for a relatable and engaging guide to help them cultivate a more positive and confident sense of self.

Favourite quote: “You don’t have time in this life to be wasting precious energy on people who don’t even realize what a privilege it is to know you.”

maisiewrites247's review against another edition

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4.0

I absolutely adored this book and I firmly believe every woman needs to read this (arguably, men should too). I only had one issue with one of the very early chapters: Whilst I agree that pretty privilege is a symptom of the patriarchy and that conventionally attractive women should be allowed (or even encouraged) to use it to their advantage, I don’t agree that sexual harassment or assault is caused by pretty privilege. You don’t have to be seen as desirable to be harassed or assaulted, and this idea is often used against victims who aren’t deemed conventionally attractive. I recommend this book because it’s a detailed, well-developed yet introductory book about feminism with a focus on all forms of sexism and misogyny and the importance of intersectionality. I applaud Florence for being able to acknowledge her own privilege and the care she took to uplift the voices of those less privileged than her. I absolutely loved this quote: ‘But remember that anyone who tells you you’re “too” anything is using the word because they are threatened by your capacity to grow, evolve, and express your emotions.’ But this one also stood out to me: ‘Because life is too short to remain in an unfulfilling relationship for the sake of staying in your comfort zone. Your new life is waiting for you. Stop shrinking yourself, shed your skin and watch how you blossom and evolve. Watch how you become an even more refined version of the already incredible person you are, outside of a relationship where you’re encouraged to view yourself as someone’s “other half”.’

khanyisile13's review against another edition

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informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

3.0

melina_04's review against another edition

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informative inspiring fast-paced

3.75