Feminist Reflections on Childhood: A History and Call to Action

Penny Weiss explores the radical feminist tradition of advocating for the liberatory treatment of youth, using the writings of Mary Wollstonecraft, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Simone de Beauvoir, Charlotte Perkins Gilman, and Emma Goldman to show how children continue to show up on feminist agendas and in manifestos. She also looks at how feminist disability theory is well-positioned to recognize the voices of children and how queer theory provides lessons on contemporary trends.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 310 pages
\n Publication date: 14 May 2021
\n Publisher: Temple University Press,U.S.
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In her groundbreaking book, Feminist Reflections on Childhood, Penny Weiss delves into the rich tradition of advocating for the liberation of young people from oppressive systems. Through a comprehensive examination of historical and contemporary feminists, Weiss uncovers the pressing issues surrounding gender inequality experienced by women and children. Drawing from the profound writings of Mary Wollstonecraft, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Simone de Beauvoir, she highlights early feminist arguments advocating for improved status and treatment of youth. Weiss further explores how Charlotte Perkins Gilman, a socialist feminist, and Emma Goldman, an anarchist feminist, reimagined children's lives, as well as how children continue to feature prominently on feminist agendas and manifestos, demanding better conditions for their well-being.

Moving into contemporary theory, Feminist Reflections on Childhood examines how feminist disability theory is uniquely positioned to acknowledge the voices of children and provide valuable insights into contemporary trends that offer visions and strategies for more positive adult-child relationships. Weiss, who incorporates her own experiences as a mother and foster mother throughout the book, concludes her feminist perspective on childhood with a thoughtful exploration of speculative fiction stories that shed light on what feminists perceive as the (un)livability of childhood.

This thought-provoking book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex interplay between feminism, childhood, and social change. It offers a profound exploration of the past and present, providing valuable insights into the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the well-being of all children.

\n Weight: 410g\n
Dimension: 155 x 229 x 27 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781439918692\n \n