While this is a work of fiction, we are certain that every story in this book has happened to someone in real life—and that is deeply tragic. The power of this novel doesn’t lie in explosive revelations or dramatic twists but in its mundanity. It captures the exhausting reality of pushing up against societal and structural barriers in vivid detail and illustrates how they quietly compound over time, fueling movements like #MeToo and the 4B’s.

This book effectively illustrates how accumulating experiences of sexism build toward a heartbreaking conclusion. The power of those everyday moments—choosing a daycare, negotiating household labor in a marriage, navigating grade school, or dealing with workplace dynamics—create an unrelenting drumbeat that reminds women in most societies that they are second class citizens.

At times, the book can feel monotonous or like a list of grievances, and for those who don’t relate to the characters, it may seem entirely foreign. It’s a subtly demanding text, requiring the reader to go beyond the surface to question their own world, experiences, and assumptions. It’s a worthwhile read but not a casual one. If you’re uninterested in gender issues, this may not be the book for you (but then maybe it should be?). However, if you want to better understand the world and half the people in it, we recommend giving it a try—and, more importantly, discussing it. The true impact of this book is found in the conversations it sparks.

BUY THIS BOOK