The Truth Will Set You Free, But First It Will Piss You Off!: Thoughts on Life, Love, and Rebellion

A beautifully illustrated collection of Gloria Steinem’s most inspirational and outrageous quotes, with an introduction and essays by the feminist activist herself

“A fearless book full of passion, resolute perspective, and unbiased hope for the future.”—Janelle Monáe

For decades—and especially now, in these times of crisis—people around the world have found guidance, humor, and unity in Gloria Steinem’s gift for creating quotes that offer hope and inspire action. From her early days as a journalist and feminist activist, Steinem’s words have helped generations to empower themselves and work together.

Covering topics from relationships (“Many are looking for the right person. Too few are trying to be the right person.”) to the patriarchy (“Men are liked better when they win. Women are liked better when they lose. This is how the patriarchy is enforced every day.”) and activism (“Revolutions, like trees, grow from the bottom up.”), this is the definitive collection of Steinem’s words on what matters most. Steinem sees quotes as “the poetry of everyday life,” so she also has included a few favorites from friends, including bell hooks, Flo Kennedy, and Michelle Obama, in this book that will make you want to laugh, march, and create some quotes of your own. In fact, at the end of the book, there’s a special space for readers to add their own quotes and others they’ve found inspiring.

The Truth Will Set You Free, But First It Will Piss You Off! is both timeless and timely. It is a gift of hope from Steinem to readers, and a book to share with friends.

Gloria Steinem was a writer, activist, and cofounder of Ms. magazine. A bestselling author and pioneering journalist, she was a central figure in feminist movements worldwide for more than six decades. Gloria’s home is the heart of Gloria's Foundation and has become renowned as a magnetic and life-changing center for feminists and activist thinkers from around the world. Gloria Steinem passed away on September 2, 2026.

Samantha Dion Baker graduated from The Cooper Union in New York City and spent more than twenty years working as a graphic designer. Now a full-time illustrator, artist, and author, she lives and works in Brooklyn with her husband and two sons.