Synopsis:
Leaders from 30 countries reveal the problems, sacrifices, rewards, and realities of women in public life.
Reviews:
If, despite current tensions, the United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing goes forward, this collection of essays by or about women taking on major governmental responsibilities around the globe will be a useful resource. In "Reality Politics," Brill blends surveys of women's struggle for political access in Australia, New Zealand, India, and Bulgaria with discussions of women's political "place" in a reunified Germany, China, Israel, and Palestine. "Paths to Power" includes essays on how notable individuals won political credibility in Japan, South Africa, Portugal, Britain, and the U.S., plus profiles of nine leading female politicians. "Women Count" spells out statistics on women's participation in governments around the world while "Women Hold Up Half the Sky" offers visions of a better future from activists in Central and South America and Africa. Only 5 of the 20-plus pieces Brill has selected are published elsewhere, so libraries whose readers care about women's political accomplishments will want to add A Rising Public Voice to their shelves. Mary Carroll
Brill's (Nobody's Business, Addison-Wesley, 1991) collection of interviews, essays, and political profiles shows the obstacles that 22 women around the world have overcome to attain an active role in government. Although each woman's struggle was unique and some cultures presented more challenges than others, problems such as balancing political careers with families and overcoming male-oriented systems and patriarchal societies are recurring themes. The women represented include renowned leaders such as Margaret Thatcher and Hanan Ashwari and new leaders in emerging democracies like South Africa and Chile. The writings are hopeful and give a sense of continuing accomplishment, as well as a clear sense of how much more there is to do. For academic and larger public library collections.?Jill Ortner, SILS, SUNY at Buffalo
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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