Girlish: An empowering journal for the twenty-first century girl by Alana Wulff

Nero, 2017. ISBN 9781863959780
(Age: 11+) Highly recommended. Themes: Feminism, Women. Starting with the quote from Zendaya, "A feminist is a person who believes in the power of women just as much as they believe in the power of anyone else" Girlish continues on as an inspiration to girls and women, giving an introduction to "Being a freaking girl rocks" and then going on in journal style to let the reader think about feminism in lots of different ways. There are truth bombs that stand out like the history of feminism as well as truths in other areas of life. "In Australia, netball has a higher participation rate than Australian Rules Football" has a comment about women's football by athlete Penny Cula-Reid who fought for a women's game. Another truth bomb is "130 million girls across the world don't have access to education" with Malala Yousafzai's wise words to accompany it. There are wonderful examples of women from all walks of life - Michelle Obama, Julia Gillard and Hilary Clinton with advice about leadership and not being afraid to be the smartest person in the room. Stars like Rhianna, Katy Perry and Reese Witherspoon also feature with inspiring quotes.
This is a book that can be read from beginning to end with lots of opportunities to fill in a personal journal that motivates and challenges thinking. It is also a book that can be dipped into for daily inspiration or to encourage positive thinking when a girl is feeling down. Some of the journal entries include things like giving a list of feel good and encouraging words, what friendship means and setting goals.
All of the book is set out in gorgeous colours, beautifully illustrated with drawings and photos that will make the reader want to continue with reading and writing.
This would be an ideal gift for any girl or young woman and is one that I will be keeping for my granddaughter.
Pat Pledger