Men in Pink Collars

What is it like to work in a sometimes literal 'no man's land'?
For decades, countless books, theses, and articles have explored what happens when women bravely cross gender lines in employment, taking on roles as lawyers, firefighters, or coal miners. But what about men who venture into traditionally 'pink collar' jobs?
Inspired by Studs Terkel's seminal oral history Working, Men in Pink Collars delves into the lives of men who have embraced so-called 'women's work.' This fascinating collection of interviews features male nurses, social workers, librarians, flight attendants, early childhood educators, stay-at-home dads, office workers, dental hygienists, nannies, midwives, interior designers, and musicians who play stereotypically 'feminine' instruments. It also highlights male cheerleaders, baton twirlers, synchronized swimmers, and even two men who could only publish their romance novels under female pen names.
The book examines why these men chose their careers, how they navigate their professional spaces, and the challenges they face from stereotypes and assumptions, both on and off the job. It also explores the unique advantages and limitations their gender brings, offering a compelling look at the dynamics of gender, work, and identity.

Cary O'Dell is a graduate of Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, and the author of the books: Women Pioneers in Television and June Cleaver was a Feminist! Reconsidering the Female Characters of Early Television, as well as four other titles. He works for the Library of Congress and resides in Culpeper, Virginia.