This is a very opinionated (but not necessarily in a bad way) look at how beauty has the power to control people’s lives and everything that happens to us. Starting with the basics from pretty babies getting picked up first, and continuing on to looks-ism throughout a career, there is a whole lifetime of analysis making you judge how much you get through you own life on your looks, or how you are discriminated against because of your looks. It is interesting but Friday’s clear personal issues with her mother show through a little too much. She seems to think that because she had no father from the age of three, all her problems are down to mistakes her mother made, and the innate daughter-mother hatred which we all apparently have, and are in denial of. Lots of interesting and possibly valid points are made, but you really need to read this with a critical eye in order to not get swept away by the writer’s persuasive tongue.

Written in the 70s, this is a collection of talks and essays by an important figure in feminist literature and action. The book is separated well into different topics, some which didn’t seem that relevant any more, or to me, but a lot of it analysed other literature directly, removing the need to read other texts on the topic. A good introduction to feminism, it was the first feminist book I ever read and lead me to read The Whole Woman (above). Very inspiring, a pleasure to read due to the many quotes and poems etc. and the personal viewpoints and experiences gave insight to the author’s stuggle, making me feel affection and closeness for her. I felt the book held a motherly tone from an obviously passionate woman. I only hope she became partly satisfied with herself with age as the book describes the angst and desperation all activists feel during their fight.

This recent work by Greer shows that she is still in touch with the feminist issues of today and explains to the new generation of women (i.e. me) how we are still being exploited in this ‘civilised’ society and across the globe. Until recently I had felt unaware of any detremental effects of gender roles being attributed by my surroundings but after this book I see them every day. It gave hope and direction on how to rise up against common inflictions we take for granted and not to assume you are who you’re told you should be. Very inspiring, I would recommend this book to anybody who doesn’t realise they are trodden on in so many ways by society but feels out of place in their given role as what society tells them they are. What does it really mean to be a woman, to be feminine, what is masculinity, how do you be strong without rejecting your feelings etc. Within this book lies many answers.

Written in 1974, this is also a collection of essays by an important figure in philosophy. Again separated into different topics which follow on well from one another when read in order, but still make sense individually. This is one book which changed my life forever, and in saying that I think it should be compulsory reading for every person in the world. It holds within it lessons for almost every aspect of life, answers so many questions a good person’s heart always asks. It was a reminder of the morals I already held in my heart, a gateway to what I already knew was true, it just clarifies my own ethical structure and defines the details. I could almost give it to a stranger with a note attached saying – this is my bible, but I had it in my heart before I ever read it anyway. Read it now. It can save your soul. Reject your religious lies today, think for yourself and take ideas from this book. I believe it can make you happy. It is actually the best book in the world ever, and don’t try to argue with me, I am right.