All the Single Ladies

This book is about the current trend of women marrying later in life or not at all and the conditions that have contributed to this new situation. It is also about the history of when in life women got married, and what was said and thought about women who didn't get married. I had the unusual sensation of feeling external validation for my single status while reading this book (I've worked long and hard on the internal validation), so I think it's worth saying that if you're a single lady, this book will make you feel kind of proud of yourself and also relieved that you're not living in another time.

The book has fascinating interviews with many unmarried women, some famous (Anita Hill, Gloria Steinem), most not. It has notes in the back, and an appendix of recommendations from the author for policies that would help make life more equitable for single women in the US.

The author, Rebecca Traister, has had commentary pieces in the news lately, as so many sexual harassment and assault allegations have come out. Her writing has a definite point of view which resonates with me, but is also beautifully plain. I'm looking forward to reading more of her.