Book: Half the Sky by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn
Target audience: Adults
Topic: The international status of women and how we can help
Basic summary: Through specific stories and shocking statistics, the authors shine light on an issue that has far to little air time in this country.
Why should you read it? And why am I featuring it on a parenting blog?
Simply put, women around the world are being hurt or killed because of their low status. Their daughters are born systems that do not value them. As a woman, and as a mother of a little girl, this matters to me. We, as a country, need to do something about it.
Truth be told--this is a tough book to read because it details true stories about the abuse of women. It's also a celebration of the human spirit in the face of incredible hardship. It includes stories that break your heart and also make you wonder, "Could I have been that strong?"
I was embarrassed that I did nothing about the issues presented in Half the Sky after reading it the first time. I meant to. Now, having read it again, I'm determined to help get its messages out there. This post is my first step.
I've actually read this book twice: once when it was originally published and again this month for my book club. It was chosen partly thanks to the PBS special that aired in early October. If you missed the broadcast, see more info about how to purchase a copy here. It focuses on specific women and girls in countries around the world. It is thoughtful, challenging, and makes us see these issues on a personal level.
Get a copy of Half the Sky from library. Buy a copy from the bookstore. Watch a copy of the PBS special. Just please, inform yourself about women's oppression and the opportunities these women create in spite of it. Knowing what is happening is the first step.
The next step is do something. Here are some suggestions from their website.
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