We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Author: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Pages: 48

Rating: 5/5 stars

Goodreads Synopsis:

What does “feminism” mean today? That is the question at the heart of We Should All Be Feminists, a personal, eloquently-argued essay—adapted from her much-viewed TEDx talk of the same name—by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the award-winning author of Americanah and Half of a Yellow Sun. 

With humor and levity, here Adichie offers readers a unique definition of feminism for the twenty-first century—one rooted in inclusion and awareness. She shines a light not only on blatant discrimination, but also the more insidious, institutional behaviors that marginalize women around the world, in order to help readers of all walks of life better understand the often masked realities of sexual politics. Throughout, she draws extensively on her own experiences—in the U.S., in her native Nigeria, and abroad—offering an artfully nuanced explanation of why the gender divide is harmful for women and men, alike. 

Argued in the same observant, witty and clever prose that has made Adichie a bestselling novelist, here is one remarkable author’s exploration of what it means to be a woman today—and an of-the-moment rallying cry for why we should all be feminists.

Non-spoilery Review:

I was in NYC Times Square and I stumbled across a Strand Book Store! I didn’t have a lot of time to thoroughly check out what they had but as soon as I saw a copy of ‘We Should All Be Feminists,’ I had to buy it! This the smallest book that I have and is also the shortest piece of literature I’ve read in one sitting, besides poetry. This a short, to the point, personal essay that’s been based off Adichie’s Ted Talk. It’s a 30-min video, with pretty much everything thats been published in the book. But to have the hardcopy would be a resourceful material to have on hand, for sure. This is also a text that I can re-read and find it just as insightful, if not more, than the first time. I fervently wish this is made a mandatory high school read all across the world. I absolutely loved this book! Adichie is engaging as a narrator and the addition of anecdotes along the point that she’s trying to make really paints a clear picture of the message that she’s trying to convey: that feminism IS for everyone and that everyone would benefit from it. She clears a lot of misconceptions that people have and does so effortlessly.

Although short, this essays gives a great message and is perfect for someone who wants to educate themselves about women’s issues. I know that there’s a lot of controversy around the term ‘feminism’ but this is a great read to familiarize yourself with the core concept of it. It’s also a good book if you’re hesitant to call yourself a feminist because you’re ‘more of a humanitarian.’ Adichie makes an excellent argument as to why that shouldn’t be the case. Overall, I would recommend this book is everyone!

Have you read this, and if so, what was your favorite part of the essay? If there’s a similar book that you have read & liked, please, feel free to leave suggestions!

-Amna xx