Introduction to feminism

[MudAndGlitter]

I never thought this was something I was too fussed about but I'm really interested in feminism now having seen a few threads but I have no clue about it IYKWIM.

Is there a book that's a good starting point? My only knowledge is the equal pay issue tbh as I don't really know any feminists!

Slightly worried I'll be flamed now for being ignorant.

There are feminist networks all over the the UK- try searching on Facebook.

As for books, good recent ones for 'beginners' are : how to be a woman, living dolls, the equality illusion, reclaiming the f word, delusions of gender and wife work.

Oh, yes, I second (or probably fourth, by the time I write this) Delusions of Gender - it is really good and easy to read. If you like Ben Goldacre you will like her.

FWIW, I find the classic feminist texts really heavy going, but have you seen the Book Club? They discuss a feminist text every wek (IIRC) and that might suit you if you are wanting to chat as well as read?

Oops, and there I forgot to flame you. Consider this your introductory whoosh of inspirational feminist fire ... or something.

Kat Banyard's Equality Illusion is a good book to start with as is Cordelia Fine's Delusions of Gender (we really should be on commission to her!)

However lurking on here and just thinking about what people are saying, even if their ideas seem outrageous or "out there" is equally as good.

Sorry it took me ages to type that and others beat ne to it! (got interrupted!)

I still haven't read the Equality Illusion.

The Equality Illusion is a good start, along with Living Dolls (Natasha Walter) and The Beauty Myth (Naomi Wolf). All good reads, although I like Banyard's style of writing best.

PS, welcome to FSWR. We don't bite! Honest!

Mud and Glitter, the Feminist Portal on Wikipedia could be a good starting point if your library doesn't carry a big stock of Feminist books and/or the pockets are a bit on the light side after the holidays.