Customer Reviews

1 reviews

• Xanadu Book Awards

  Buckle up! “Girl Grit” by Dr Alexandra Elinsky is a straight-talking, fast paced book by an author on a mission to help every woman realize her worth. The conversational and frank tone may remind some readers of the discussion over the last few drinks at a bridal shower or girls’ weekend – whilesome language and sentiments may offend, with other readers it will deeply resonate. It’s a rollercoaster read, covering gender roles, misogyny, abuse, and failed relationships but also uplifting themes such as self-worth, self-belief, equality and setting personal boundaries. Many, (or,unfortunately, all) of these subjects will be of significant relevance to women in today’s world, whether in their own personal lives or those of friends and family. The paragraphs relating to importance of love, the finding of love and the social expectations of women in this context may strike some readers as exaggerated, but for others they will serve as a valuable warning and/or belated explanation of life experiences that have not ended well. Of course, as the author is careful to note, we each have different upbringings, personalities, and expectations. Nevertheless, “Girl Grit” states some interesting perspectives on this subject, whether the reader debates them or accepts them. In parts, the book is a strident call to arms, or atleast a passionate entreaty to live life on your own terms. There is much to reflect on, and the casual style of writing means that it is the sort of book that can easily be dipped into from time to time, with sections read and then put down again untilnext time. Readers may smile but also grimace in reluctant recognition of some of the more deeply personal comments and reflections. Several sections of the book will appeal to a wide range of women; depending on our generations and background, some content may be obvious, or by turn, confronting. Any such content focusing on women’s advancement is welcome and needed, however the expansive and wide-ranging style of writing may have benefited from more focused editing, or grouping of topics. Regardless of that, the reader is left with a lingering sense of empowerment and hope for the future, or at least a sense that they have shared some confidences with a good friend. “Girl Grit” also includes practical tips which may assist some readers to put what they have read into practice. The target audience will be women who are searching for meaning and looking to establish a framework for their personal lives and relationships – or anyone who seeks to reflect on the paradigms of being a woman in society. In this regard “Girl Grit” will appeal to women of all ages, although the author’s use of language (ie: swearing) and text-message type abbreviations (also, a short form of swearing) may mean that a younger audience gravitates more to the content. "Girl Grit” by Dr Alexandra Elinsky will no doubt be a conversation starter between friends and families, as well as a source of personal reflection for many women. The author fearlessly discusses gender roles, relationship myths, the significance of “love” as a concept, and a range of other positive and negative aspects that affect women in society today. An intriguing and thoughtprovoking read

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