10 Books to Read About Abortion
The rest of your summer reading sorted!
While it's still summer and people are enjoying their holidays, I thought I'd put together a list of 10 excellent books on abortion for you to read. These books offer a mix of fiction and non-fiction, providing different perspectives on the topic. Pro-choice perspectives (obviously).
1. "Bodies Under Siege" by Sian Norris: This recently released book explores the far-right and white supremacist organizations that are actively working to restrict abortion rights worldwide. It sheds light on the collaboration between extremist American organizations, Russian oligarchs, and European anti-abortion groups, revealing the link between antisemitism, homophobia, and misogyny. It's a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the forces behind the erosion of abortion rights.
2. "Jane of Battery Park" by Jaye Viner: This novel delves into the impact of a cult of religious extremist terrorists called The Vanguard on the lives of two individuals. It explores themes of abortion and the subjugation of women within the cult. It's an engaging and thought-provoking read.
3. "Ejaculate Responsibly" by Gabrielle Blair: This thought-provoking book challenges the narrative around responsibility for causing pregnancies. It reframes abortion as a consequence of irresponsible ejaculation, highlighting the disproportionate burden placed on women and individuals with uteruses. It prompts readers to consider the unequal distribution of physical, emotional, and financial costs associated with pregnancy and abortion.
4. "Jane Against the World" by Karen Blumenthal: This book provides insight into the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling and the battle for reproductive rights. It explores the misogyny faced by the women lawyers involved in the case and the historical struggle for access to contraception. It also delves into the evolving religious views on abortion and the changing stances of certain institutions.
5. "The Turnaway Study" by Diana Greene Foster: This ground-breaking 10-year longitudinal study examines the experiences of individuals who were denied abortions. It reveals the negative impact on mental health, increased likelihood of living in poverty, and continued contact with abusive partners for those who were denied access to abortion. The book emphasizes the importance of safe and legal abortion as a matter of public health and human rights.
6. "Unpregnant" by Jenni Hendriks and Ted Caplan: This Young Adult novel follows the story of a model student who becomes pregnant and embarks on a road trip with an old friend to obtain an abortion. Along the way, they encounter religious extremists and anti-abortion protesters. The fact that this book is banned in Texas speaks to its quality and relevance.
7. "Blanket Ban" by Davina Hamilton: Although it is a play, "Blanket Ban" offers a powerful examination of Malta's blanket abortion ban and its impact on real people's lives. Given recent cases of women having to seek healthcare abroad and the ongoing struggle to legalize abortion in Malta, this play remains highly relevant.
8. "Happening" by Annie Ernaux: Set in 1960s Paris, this powerful account follows a young woman's journey to obtain an illegal abortion. The book sheds light on the desperate measures she had to take and highlights the social class divide in access to abortion and education. Despite its 1960’s setting, the themes explored in the book remain relevant today too
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9. "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood: No list of abortion books would be complete without this dystopian novel. Set in a theocratic regime where women are considered property and face severe restrictions on their reproductive rights, it serves as a chilling reminder of the importance of protecting and fighting for reproductive freedom.
10. "Red Clocks" by Leni Zumas: If you enjoyed "The Handmaid's Tale," you'll likely appreciate this novel. It envisions an America where Roe v. Wade has been overturned, resulting in a ban on IVF, adoption restrictions, and challenges in crossing the border to Canada. The book explores the lives of women and girls affected by the abortion ban, highlighting the consequences of such restrictions.
Ok, I said 10, but just one more, my own book, "You Matter More Than Cells," - a shameless plug. I wrote this out of frustration with the spread of misinformation and propaganda by anti-abortion groups in local schools. In this book, I aim to debunk common misconceptions about abortion, provide factual information, and empower young people to prioritize their own well-being. It's a reminder that they should never be punished for an unwanted pregnancy.
Happy reading!