Book Summary: Drew Afualo is at the head of a new generation of rising stars in entertainment, with more than nine million followers across her social platforms. She realized that men on social media were creating sexist content aimed at disparaging women, containing rampant fatphobia, racism, and other forms of bigotry with very real-life consequences. She stepped into the role of unofficial watchdog for misogyny, and her signature laugh is now recognized as a feminist call to arms. Loud is part manual, part manifesto, and part memoir. It is a summoning cry to rid the internet (and our hearts, minds, and lives) of “terrible men” and create a space to fight outdated patriarchal ideals. Above all, it makes it clear that behind Drew’s fearsome laugh is a mission and a life philosophy, a strategy for self-confidence from the inside out, and a pathway to once and for all remove men from the center of how women and femmes think about themselves.
It is easy to dismiss Loud as a feminist book written by a young woman with not enough life experience. However, that would be wrong. Throughout the book, there are valuable lessons about work, friendship, love, society, and patriarchy. Ideally, this book is aimed towards teenagers and young 20-somethings, starting on their life’s journey. However, it can also serve as a reminder for those that are older and have lost their way or those that are lacking self-confidence. Could these lessons be found in other books or media? Yes, of course. However, Afualo’s social media presence and writing style are reminiscent of an older sister or best friend talking to someone she loves about healthy boundaries.
Thanks to NetGalley, Drew Afualo, and AUWA for providing a complimentary copy of this book in hopes that I will leave my unbiased review. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and the above review is simply my opinion of the book.
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐