kirkusreviews.com
This Canadian import presents an
illustrated list of the negative effects of misogyny, racism, homophobia, and
other prejudices that impact the lives of girls and women.
The blunt, wide-ranging text can
feel repetitive as it describes girls’ reactions to the myriad expectations and
limitations imposed by society on female individuals. From physical and verbal
harassment to rape and murder, body shaming to economic inequality, the litany
of challenges runs the risk of utterly overwhelming readers. Some statements
include supporting footnotes; most are simply presented as fact. Darling’s
graphic-novel–style illustrations, created in shades of lavender, purple, and
white with black outlines, have a retro feel vaguely reminiscent of Roy
Lichtenstein’s pop art. They show girls and women with a variety of skin tones
and body types, sometimes interacting with others, sometimes staring out at the
reader. While there is no arguing with the accuracy of the challenges
cataloged, it’s difficult to imagine finding just the right audience for this
consciousness-raising manifesto. Girls already aware of inequality will likely
be looking for more ideas about how to combat it. Readers who have yet to
notice the existence of gender- or race-based inequities or other forms of
bigotry may not be inspired to discover it here.
The final shoutout for feminism and
solidarity is a welcome positive note, but readers will have to look elsewhere
for ideas on how to take action. (Nonfiction. 13-18)
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