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A review by kalira
Women and Other Monsters: Building a New Mythology by Jess Zimmerman
challenging
dark
emotional
3.75
I found this book (along with Monster Theory, which is mentioned in the introduction here as well) recommended for discussions of monsters in storytelling, myth, and history.
It is very much not that, but I knew that going in, having found more information. She also presents in the introduction that she is using the monsters of Greek myth more as a source of metaphor/jumping off point than remaining true to their historical stories, an appreciated point to make in advance. She uses them to excellent effect in this light.
Truly, it's a blend of contemplative essays and memoir, skewed towards feeling more like the latter. A memoir from someone who at times seems to be feeling she has done a lot of work on herself (which she has, from her writing! but not 'finished', which is the feeling at times, that she is expressing she is done with her journey), but is clearly yet struggling or caught up in some . . . messy, damaging places yet. (Some recognised, some seemingly not?)
Also perhaps some heavy warnings for anyone who struggles with body image (especially fatness), disordered eating, or self-harm issues themselves; the manner of discussion in the book is . . . primed to dig up all manner of problems with those or reinforce unhealthy thought patterns.
It is very much not that, but I knew that going in, having found more information. She also presents in the introduction that she is using the monsters of Greek myth more as a source of metaphor/jumping off point than remaining true to their historical stories, an appreciated point to make in advance. She uses them to excellent effect in this light.
Truly, it's a blend of contemplative essays and memoir, skewed towards feeling more like the latter. A memoir from someone who at times seems to be feeling she has done a lot of work on herself (which she has, from her writing! but not 'finished', which is the feeling at times, that she is expressing she is done with her journey), but is clearly yet struggling or caught up in some . . . messy, damaging places yet. (Some recognised, some seemingly not?)
Also perhaps some heavy warnings for anyone who struggles with body image (especially fatness), disordered eating, or self-harm issues themselves; the manner of discussion in the book is . . . primed to dig up all manner of problems with those or reinforce unhealthy thought patterns.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Sexism, Toxic relationship, Sexual harassment, Bullying, Eating disorder, Mental illness, Body shaming, Fatphobia, and Misogyny
Moderate: Pregnancy, Pandemic/Epidemic, Cursing, Domestic abuse, Self harm, and Racism
Minor: Transphobia, Infertility, and Infidelity