The realm of literature has seen its fair share of instances where male authors have faltered in their portrayal of female characters. From reductionist stereotypes to objectification and shallow representation, these authors often fall into the trap of perpetuating harmful gender biases. Instead of presenting multifaceted and complex women, they frequently resort to one-dimensional archetypes that fail to capture the true essence of female experiences. By neglecting authentic perspectives and relying on clichés, these men writing women poorly hinder the progress towards gender equality and reinforce harmful societal norms. It is crucial for authors to approach their craft with empathy, sensitivity, and a commitment to breaking free from harmful stereotypes. However, here is a list of books written by men which goes on to show just how little they understand the female body and femininity.
The Fixer by Saul Herzog
The book which came out only recently shows just how far we have come with literature and men understanding the female anatomy, which is zilch. Why is the most important and expressive thing about a female body her boobs?
American War by Omar El Akkad
No, but honestly where do we draw the line? Men have been writing about women as though they are nothing but sex objects for years now, but kids? Really? This narrative is about a boy who is 14 and a girl who is 12. In what world is it okay to talk about a child like this unless you are a paedophile?
Regret And Singularity by Joshua Edward Smith
While the omniscient narrator is describing what the woman is feeling, it is pretty evident that he has never met one. As a woman, I have never looked at my boobs and thought “Oh! A good boob day!” because it does not exist except in men’s imagination.
Black Buck by Mateo Askaripour
This cannot be a coincidence, right? Why is every male author writing women characters as though their entire life revolves around their breasts? “The breasts dropped because they were sad”, “the breasts were cradled like ripe melons”, the breasts this, the breasts that; as if you could boil down the entire female existence to just their boobs.
Desperate Measures by Stuart Woods
Well, at least the book is named appropriately because we do see the desperate measures Woods took to make the book even slightly interesting. When they leave the breasts alone, they choose the more mysterious ‘vagina’. How in the world is someone keeping a tiny purse, which is tiny but also big enough to hold a driver’s licence, a credit card and some money, in their vagina? Men really do create fiction in their books!
These books are really not worth the read, but then what is? We, as readers, must embrace the transformative power of literature by diving into the rich tapestry of books written by women. It’s time we explore the authentic voices, nuanced perspectives, and empowering narratives crafted by women authors, who choose to support and amplify their stories, which accurately portray the depth and complexity of female experiences. By reading books penned by women, we will not only discover diverse perspectives but also challenge and dismantle the harmful stereotypes perpetuated by problematically written female characters. Here are a few alternatives that you might want to add to your TBR right away!
Girls Burn Brighter by Shobha Rao
It is an extraordinary and deeply affecting novel that explores the enduring power of friendship and resilience in the face of adversity. Rao's prose is both lyrical and raw, capturing the indomitable spirit of the two young protagonists as they navigate the harsh realities of gender inequality, poverty, and societal expectations. This poignant tale illuminates the strength and determination of women, leaving a lasting impact on its readers.
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
A beloved classic that has captivated readers for generations. This timeless tale follows the lives of the four March sisters as they navigate the challenges of womanhood, emphasising themes of family, love, and personal growth. With its relatable characters, poignant storytelling, and enduring messages of resilience and sisterhood, ‘Little Women’ continues to inspire and resonate with readers of all ages.
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
A powerful and introspective novel that delves into the complexities of mental health and the struggle for self-identity. Plath's haunting prose and raw portrayal of the protagonist's descent into depression and existential crisis create a deeply resonant narrative. With its poignant exploration of societal expectations and the pursuit of individuality, ‘The Bell Jar’ remains a thought-provoking and influential work of literature.
The Bloody Chamber by Angela Carter
A mesmerising collection of dark and enchanting fairy tales that subvert traditional gender roles and challenge societal norms. Carter's lush prose and vivid imagery transport readers to hauntingly beautiful worlds where desire, power, and transformation intertwine. With its feminist reimagining of classic tales, ‘The Bloody Chamber’ showcases Carter's unparalleled storytelling talent and offers a fresh perspective on timeless narratives.
The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler
A revolutionary and empowering collection of monologues that celebrate the experiences and voices of women. Through candid and unapologetic storytelling, Ensler sheds light on topics often shrouded in silence and stigma. This powerful work challenges societal taboos, advocates for sexual autonomy, and celebrates the resilience and diversity of women's experiences. ‘The Vagina Monologues’ is a bold and transformative book that ignites conversations and fosters understanding and empathy.
Reading books written by women is essential for a multitude of reasons. First and foremost, it allows you to explore a diverse range of perspectives and experiences, offering unique insights into the world. Women authors often bring forth nuanced portrayals of characters, relationships, and societal issues, fostering a deeper understanding of gender dynamics and promoting empathy. Apart from that, sexism in the publishing industry still persists, with gender biases affecting representation, book promotions, and the recognition of women authors' work. Reading books written by women also helps counteract historical imbalances in representation and amplifies women's voices in literature, which is the need for the day. It not only contributes to the broader movement for gender equality and encourages more inclusive narratives and storytelling, but also enriches your reading experience with a wide array of compelling stories, fresh perspectives, and powerful narratives.
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