In 'Girl, Woman, Other', Bernardine Evaristo weaves together the lives of twelve characters, predominantly women of black British heritage, exploring their interconnected stories across decades. Each character offers a unique perspective on identity, race, sexuality, and the struggles of modern life. From an aspiring playwright to a single mother, the narratives reveal the complexities and richness of their experiences. As these women navigate love, loss, and friendship, their journeys collide in unexpected and profound ways. This vibrant tapestry of voices invites readers to reflect on what it means to be a woman today.
By Bernardine Evaristo
Published: 2019
"We are the stories we tell, shaped by love, loss, and the endless search for belonging."
With her historic Booker win, Bernardine Evaristo is the author everyone is talking about. The standout book of 2019, Girl, Woman, Other is the number book you need to read this year. WINNER OF THE BOOKER PRIZE 2019 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER This is Britain as you've never read it. This is Britain as it has never been told. From Newcastle to Cornwall, from the birth of the twentieth century to the teens of the twenty-first, Girl Woman Other follows a cast of twelve characters on their personal journeys through this country and the last hundred years. They're each looking for something - a shared past, an unexpected future, a place to call home, somewhere to fit in, a lover, a missed mother, a lost father, even just a touch of hope . . . 'Masterful . . . A choral love song to black womanhood in modern Great Britain' Elle 'Exceptional. Ambitious, flowing and all-encompassing, an offbeat narrative that'll leave your mind in an invigorated whirl... [It] unites poetry, social history, women's voices and beyond. You have to order it right now' Stylist 'Bernardine Evaristo can take any story from any time and turn it into something vibrating with life' Ali Smith, author of How to be both 'Sparkling, inventive' Sunday Times 'Funny, sad, tender and true, deserves to win awards' Red 'Brims with vitality' Financial Times SHORTLISTED FOR THE GORDON BURN PRIZE 2019
Showing 8 of 28 similar books
Amanda Palmer is an American singer-songwriter, author, and performance artist, best known for her work as a solo artist and as part of the band The Dresden Dolls. Palmer is known for her theatrical performances, genre-blending music, and her strong connection with her fanbase. She has been a pioneer in crowdfunding, raising millions to fund her creative projects through platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon. Palmer is also the author of The Art of Asking, where she explores themes of vulnerability, creativity, and connection. Her work transcends traditional music, blending performance art, activism, and community engagement.
Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.
Gaby Goldberg is an investor and Web3 advocate, focusing on the intersection of consumer technology, culture, and decentralized finance (DeFi). She works with TCG (The Chernin Group), where she invests in companies that are shaping the future of digital platforms and social communities. Goldberg is passionate about how blockchain technology can empower creators and foster new forms of ownership and collaboration. She is also a vocal advocate for women in tech and frequently shares insights on the future of the internet and decentralized systems. Her work positions her as a key figure in the growing Web3 and crypto ecosystems.
Jacinda Ardern is a prominent New Zealand politician who served as the 40th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2017 to 2023. Known for her empathetic leadership, she garnered international acclaim for her handling of the Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019, promoting unity and compassion. Ardern also led New Zealand through the COVID-19 pandemic with a strong public health response. In addition to her political career, she has contributed to literature by authoring several speeches and articles that reflect her progressive values and leadership philosophy. Her legacy includes significant strides in social welfare, climate change policy, and child poverty reduction.
Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Shonda Rhimes is an American television producer, screenwriter, and author, best known for creating hit shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder. As one of the most powerful women in Hollywood, Rhimes has redefined the television landscape with her diverse storytelling and strong female characters. She has built an empire under her production company, Shondaland, and signed a groundbreaking deal with Netflix to produce exclusive content. Rhimes is also an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry, using her platform to push for greater representation on screen and behind the scenes.
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
Showing 8 of 13 related collections
“We are the stories we tell, shaped by love, loss, and the endless search for belonging.”
Girl, Woman, Other
By Bernardine Evaristo
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Bernardine Evaristo is a British author and poet, celebrated for her innovative storytelling and exploration of identity, race, and gender. She is best known for her novel 'Girl, Woman, Other,' which won the 2019 Booker Prize, making her the first Black woman to receive the prestigious award. Evaristo's other notable works include 'Mr. Loverman,' 'Lara,' and 'The Emperor's Babe.' Her writing often blends fiction and poetry, employing a vibrant, lyrical style that reflects the complexities of contemporary life. Evaristo's contributions to literature have established her as a prominent voice in modern literature.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "Women Who Run with the Wolves," Clarissa Pinkola Estés illuminates the wild woman archetype, blending folklore and psychology to empower women to reclaim their innate instincts and untamed spirit. Through a rich tapestry of myths and stories, she unpacks the transformative power of the feminine psyche and urges women to honor their intuition and creativity. Each tale not only reveals hidden truths about the feminine experience but also serves as a catalyst for healing and self-discovery. Estés invites readers to awaken their inner wildness, challenging societal norms that seek to confine them. Dive into this enchanting exploration and rediscover the strength and wisdom that lies within.
SHORTLISTED FOR THE BAILEY'S WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION 'A delicious, important novel' The Times 'Alert, alive and gripping' Independent 'Some novels tell a great story and others make you change the way you look at the world. Americanah does both.' Guardian As teenagers in a Lagos secondary school, Ifemelu and Obinze fall in love. Their Nigeria is under military dictatorship, and people are fleeing the country if they can. Ifemelu--beautiful, self-assured--departs for America to study. She suffers defeats and triumphs, finds and loses relationships and friendships, all the while feeling the weight of something she never thought of back home: race. Obinze--the quiet, thoughtful son of a professor--had hoped to join her, but post-9/11 America will not let him in, and he plunges into a dangerous, undocumented life in London. Thirteen years later, Obinze is a wealthy man in a newly democratic Nigeria, while Ifemelu has achieved success as a writer of an eye-opening blog about race in America. But when Ifemelu returns to Nigeria, and she and Obinze reignite their shared passion--for their homeland and for each other--they will face the toughest decisions of their lives. Fearless, gripping, spanning three continents and numerous lives, Americanah is a richly told story of love and expectation set in today's globalized world.
'Ernest Hemingway on Writing' is a captivating exploration of the legendary author's insights and principles on the craft of writing. Larry W. Phillips delves into Hemingway's timeless advice, revealing the secrets behind his impactful prose and unforgettable characters. The book not only sheds light on Hemingway's techniques but also offers reflections on the broader art of storytelling. As readers journey through Hemingway's wisdom, they uncover the discipline and passion that shaped a literary giant. This essential guide invites both aspiring writers and literature lovers to embrace the essence of writing with clarity and purpose.
In 'Little Women,' the lives of the March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—unfold against the backdrop of the American Civil War. As they navigate the trials of poverty, family, and societal expectations, each sister pursues her own dreams, wrestling with love and ambition. Alcott beautifully captures the essence of womanhood and sisterhood in a world where stepping beyond traditional roles challenges their identities. With timeless themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the pursuit of happiness, the story resonates deeply with readers of all ages. What will ultimately shape their destinies and bind them together in a rapidly changing world?
In 'I Love You More Than My Dog,' Jeanne Bliss weaves a heartfelt narrative that explores the profound connections we forge with both our pets and our loved ones. This book reveals how the loyalty of a dog can teach us vital lessons about trust, love, and emotional resilience. With humor and warmth, Bliss shares personal anecdotes that illuminate the unique bonds we share with those we care about most. Readers will find themselves reflecting on their own relationships and the unconditional love that surrounds them. This touching memoir invites you to discover what it truly means to prioritize love in a chaotic world.
In "Panzram," dive into the chilling true story of Carl Panzram, one of America's most notorious serial killers. This gripping narrative chronicles his violent life and the relentless cycle of crime that defined him. Through the eyes of those who encountered him, the book unravels the complexities of his disturbed mind and the societal failures that shaped his path. Gaddis and Long paint a haunting portrait of a man who sought revenge against a world he believed had wronged him. Discover what lies behind the darkness and ponder the questions of nature versus nurture in this compelling exploration of evil.
In 'Three Women,' Lisa Taddeo intricately weaves together the intimate stories of three women, exploring their desires, relationships, and the complex fabric of their lives. Each woman's journey unveils the powerful dynamics of love, betrayal, and the search for fulfillment in a world that often limits their choices. Taddeo's raw and unflinching prose invites readers to delve into the depths of female sexuality and the impacts of societal expectations. As their lives intersect, the haunting realizations about the nature of desire emerge, leaving readers questioning the very essence of intimacy. This compelling narrative captivates and challenges, making you ponder the fierce struggles for autonomy in the pursuit of happiness.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
