Herland, by Charlotte Perkins Gilman is a book ‘way ahead of its time. Women, particularly young women, will recognize themselves –their thoughts, ideals, dreams for themselves and the world. Men, particularly men born after1960, will scoff at the narrator’s attitudes. Although the premise is a classic hidden utopia tale, there are more than enough plot twists and turns to keep you reading to the end.
Although this is a serious, very thoughtful novel about an all-woman country, Gilman writes with a wicked sense of humour. The book is full of hilarious moments, not least because they are couched in the observations of a twenty-something man of his time (1915). The story never strays from from the important issues Gilman is addressing through her imaginary women’s country, but it’s told with the wisdom of a light touch.
Just a couple of quotes, my favourites from many flagged pages–
[In the context of a courtship in which he can't smooth things over with flowers:]
When a man has nothing to give a woman, is dependent wholly on his personal attraction, his courtship is under limitations.
[In comparing the world's idea of patriotism with the peaceful and productive Herland:]
Patriotism, red hot, is compatible with the existence of a neglect of national interests, a dishonesty, a cold indifference to the suffering of millions. Patriotism is largely pride, and very largely combativeness. Patriotism generally has a chip on is shoulder.
This book is a quick, enjoyable read, a story that fascinates and entertains and makes you think all at the same time. The Shangri-La, lost world elements will appeal to science fiction afficionados as well as fantasy fans. Intelligent teenagers will find it a fun read that also challenges some of their assumptions.
I have a Dover Books Thrift Edition, which was cheap and is very sturdily bound. I’m sure there are editions with critical introductions, discussion topics, etc. available, but I like my Dover Books edition. You can buy it directly from Dover at http://store.doverpublications.com/
or try
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- The Humane Society of the United States is involved in legal proceedings to get Amazon to stop selling magazines that advertise tools used to torture animals. For more information on this issue, click Against Torturing Animals at the top of the list of “Sites to Visit” on the right side of this page.
