I found this an inspiring and thought-provoking book by accident while at my local library last week. I was interesting in finding books on parenting and it caught my eye. Both the cover and the title grabbed my attention. I know enough to know I have a lot to learn about parenting and feminism. “How to Raise a Feminist Son” is a beautiful and inspiring resource for anyone looking to expand their knowledge in a fascinating format full of personal stories, profound ideas, and questions to keep you thinking.
Jha’s personal story, along with her insights and practical advice, make this book a must-read for anyone who wants to raise boys who are empathetic, compassionate, and committed to equality.
One of the things that sets “How to Raise a Feminist Son” apart from other books on this topic is Jha’s approach. Rather than presenting a rigid set of rules or guidelines, she encourages parents to engage in open, honest, and ongoing conversations with their sons about gender and privilege. Jha’s own experiences as a mother and as a woman of color make her perspective particularly compelling, and her empathy and understanding shine through on every page.
The book is divided into three parts: the first is a memoir of Jha’s own experiences growing up in India and then raising her son in the United States. The second is a collection of essays on various aspects of gender and feminism, and the third offers practical advice and tools for parents who want to raise feminist sons. This structure allows Jha to offer a multifaceted perspective on the issues at hand, and to present her ideas in a way that is both personal and accessible.
Jha’s memoir is particularly powerful, as she shares her own struggles with gender inequality and the impact that it has had on her life. Her experiences growing up in a patriarchal society, where she was taught to be subservient and deferential to men, are eye-opening and thought-provoking. As a mother raising a son in the United States, Jha is acutely aware of the ways in which gender roles and expectations are still pervasive, even in a supposedly “enlightened” society.
“How to Raise a Feminist Son” is a powerful and inspiring book that offers a fresh perspective on the crucial topic of gender equality that belongs in every home library.
The essays in the book are equally compelling, and cover a wide range of topics related to gender and feminism. Jha writes about the need for men to be allies in the fight for gender equality, the impact of toxic masculinity on boys and men, and the ways in which race and class intersect with gender to create unique challenges for women of color. Each essay is thoughtful and well-researched, and Jha’s writing is clear, concise, and engaging.
Jha offers practical advice for parents who want to raise feminist sons. She emphasizes the importance of modeling feminist behavior, engaging in open and honest conversations with children about gender and privilege, and actively seeking out diverse perspectives and experiences.
Throughout the book, Jha’s love and concern for her son shine through. She is committed to raising a boy who is empathetic, respectful, and committed to social justice, and she offers practical advice and tools for parents who share her vision. Her writing is engaging and accessible, and she is able to convey complex ideas and concepts in a way that is easy to understand.
Jha’s personal story, along with her insights and practical advice, make this book a must-read for anyone who wants to raise boys who are empathetic, compassionate, and committed to equality. Whether you are a parent, educator, or simply someone who cares about social justice, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.
You can use my affiliate link to purchase a copy of “How to Raise a Feminist Son: A Memoir & Manifesto” by Sonora Jha on Amazon.com.
Have you read it? What did you think? Let me know in the comments and on social.