Rating: ★★★★½

Susan Faludi’s Backlash is a powerful, deeply researched, and thought-provoking examination of the resistance to feminism in the 1980s—a topic that remains strikingly relevant today. What sets this book apart is Faludi’s masterful use of examples: each one is meticulously chosen and vividly presented, bringing clarity and nuance to a subject that spans politics, pop culture, media, and psychology.

Her ability to weave these examples into a compelling narrative is what makes Backlash so impactful. Whether she’s analyzing media portrayals of women or dissecting shifts in workplace policies, Faludi doesn’t just state her case—she shows it, in rich detail. The result is a book that not only informs but challenges the reader to recognize the subtler forms of societal pushback against women’s progress.

The only reason for a slight deduction from a perfect five stars is that the breadth of the topic occasionally makes the pacing feel dense in places. But even then, Faludi’s sharp insights and eloquent prose keep the reader engaged.

An essential read for anyone interested in feminism, history, or media criticism. Backlash is as relevant today as it was when it was first published.

Oy, I just can't 

Sooooo informative. I learned so much about  80s feminism/sexism but also about current society. It has made me angry in the best ways possible. SO RELEVANT TOO

everyone should read this. everyone!!!

This was a great book that reminded me how little has changed over time.