Wordslut by Amanda Montell
Book Review
This is a book I didn’t realize needed to be written. Shoutout to The Morning Bookclub for choosing this as our November read and Amanda Montell for bringing this book into the world.
In this unique and informative nonfiction work, Montell reveals how modern-day English, unbeknownst to many, enables and enforces the patriarchy and gender stereotypes. Each chapter focuses on a different topic - from swear words and insults to catcalling and vocal patterns - in which Montell educates the reader on the history and consequences of linguistics. Despite the seeming dry content, Montell does an excellent job of keeping the reader engaged by weaving in humor and personal anecdotes.
I’m always fascinated to learn about the English language and how it’s evolved over the years. If you read and enjoyed this book, I would highly recommend checking out Bill Bryson’s book “The Mother Tongue: English and How It Got That Way.” Though Bryson’s book lacks the feminist angle of Wordslut, it expands upon the broader history of linguistics and includes a plethora of illuminating facts.
Apparently Amanda Montell has a new book, called Cultish, coming out in June. If it’s anywhere near as well-written and educational as Wordslut, I’ll definitely pick that one up as well.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Have you read this one?? If so, what was the most interesting thing you learned?
