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A review by savvylit
All About Love: New Visions by bell hooks
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
4.5
This book begins with hooks stating that historically, discussing love has always been viewed as something to ridicule - since it is seen as something that only women do. Right away, she dissuades readers of that notion. hooks establishes that love being seen as unserious and only a feminine concern is both false and a reflection of the greater patriarchal and sexist culture of the U.S. She states that love is such an essential part of life that it only makes sense that it be discussed and evaluated just as logically as any other topic. (On a personal note, I really appreciate that the book began this way because it helped me realize that I have some internalized misogyny when it comes to discussing love. I have generally tried to avoid saying anything that I deem "too sappy" probably because I always want to be taken seriously.)
After firmly establishing her feminist thesis, hooks delves into types of love and how to approach love in a thoughtful and considerate manner. She emphasizes the importance of intentional and empathetic knowing in any relationship. Though the mass media often represents love as a magical mystery, this idea is damaging and promotes miscommunication. "Being aware enables us to critically examine our actions to see what is needed so that we can give care, be responsible, show respect, and indicate a willingness to learn."
Later in the book, hooks also discusses the myth of the nuclear family and focuses on the importance of communal care. Despite what has been established as the norm, families can be based on so much more than just two married partners. hooks uses historical precedent to reveal to readers the ways in which extended family and community are necessary and often better models of love for children than a parent.
This review has barely scratched the surface of why all about love is such a fascinating and important work. If you enjoy cultural criticism and sociology, this book is an absolute must-read.
After firmly establishing her feminist thesis, hooks delves into types of love and how to approach love in a thoughtful and considerate manner. She emphasizes the importance of intentional and empathetic knowing in any relationship. Though the mass media often represents love as a magical mystery, this idea is damaging and promotes miscommunication. "Being aware enables us to critically examine our actions to see what is needed so that we can give care, be responsible, show respect, and indicate a willingness to learn."
Later in the book, hooks also discusses the myth of the nuclear family and focuses on the importance of communal care. Despite what has been established as the norm, families can be based on so much more than just two married partners. hooks uses historical precedent to reveal to readers the ways in which extended family and community are necessary and often better models of love for children than a parent.
This review has barely scratched the surface of why all about love is such a fascinating and important work. If you enjoy cultural criticism and sociology, this book is an absolute must-read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny and Toxic relationship
Moderate: Domestic abuse