Jess Zimmerman

"This essay collection uses female monsters from Greek mythology to explore traits that women are taught to suppress, and encourage readers to embrace them instead"--

Building a New Mythology

Women and Other Monsters

Kristen Claiborn

I don't think I would have encountered this book had it not been picked by my book club for August of 2021. It's a Facebook book club and the picks are made pretty much by a single person, but for the most part I enjoy what she decides on. The description of this book fascinated me so I was excited to dig in. 
 The book is far more a memoir than an exploration of women's roles in mythology. The author examines her own life through the depiction of women in ancient tales, and it is an enjoyable read. It was disappointing only because it is far less about the actual myths than it is about her. However, I would still recommend it. I take fiction at face value, so it had really never occurred to me to imagine those old fables and myths as a way to warn both men and women about the evils of femininity. However, this book really opened my eyes to how women have been examined through fiction throughout history. It's pretty interesting.

Caellum

This book really bothered me for the deliberate side stepping of things which would've developed Zimmerman's thoughts into something more meaningful. For example she focuses heavily on Greek and classical mythology but repeatedly and pointedly draws attention to the fact she's actively ignoring a plethora of folk and fairytales which contradict the point she wants to make. It seemed more a chance for her to vent about some very valid women's issues but without anything particularly interesting or new to add to the topics. Yes, the beauty industry is evil, so? What's your point? She just never went far enough. 

Sam Pulliam

This book is a great conversation starter and I related to a few of the personal aspects from Zimmerman. I do think there are some sections that lack some nuance and could do with a bit more discussion.

Zoe Smolen

Rounding up from 3.5. 

This book of really more of a metaphor than a non-fiction analysis. If you can go into the book knowing that I think one will like it more. 

I, personally, really relate to a lot of the situations that the author has experienced and took a lot of value out of this book. However, I will say that while Zimmerman did try to be intersectional, there were a few moments that it fell a little flat. 

Overall, I did enjoy the book, and the illustrations are STUNNNNING, but I understand a lot of the other criticisms. 

Thanks to Macmillan for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

This was a gorgeous analytical look at the societal views on women, both past and present. Zimmerman explores the way women have been portrayed in mythology, why and how this was okay, and how this has been translated into modern views and opinions. 

While analytical, this book incredibly easy to follow along with. The tone of voice is conversational while being incredibly informative and thought-provoking at the same time. The audio was fantastic, easy to listen to and clear - all things I look for in non-fiction audio publications. 

If you are a reader that has an avid interest in mythology or fictional stories like Circe, I highly recommend you add this book to your list. You are bound to find it interesting and insightful.


  Note: Review copy (audio) received via Libro.FM. This does not impact opinions within this review.


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Happy reading! ❤

Women and Other Monsters Building a New Mythology

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