Book Review: Cinderella Ate My Daughter

Friday Spines Book Review Number 29: 

Cinderella Ate My Daughter, by Peggy Orenstein

(Disclaimer: I'm writing a research paper covering this subject...please disregard all thesis-like statements. I apologize.)

Cinderella Ate My Daughter would be best appreciated by someone who isn't already very educated about feminist parenting. I've read reviews that Peggy Orenstein has nothing new to say, or at least nothing new to those who are pretty familiar with the subject. (This is probably true.) To me-- someone who's interested in the politics gender bias of childhood marketing, but doesn't know much about it--Cinderella was perfect. 

No matter who you are, Barbies have probably freaked you out at one point or another (quite understandably). You might have thought about the young girls who play with them, wondered briefly how the plastic skinny-waisted, long-legged dolls affect them, and moved on to the clothing section or the book aisle. In Cinderella, Orenstein explores the consequences of media portrayal of girls and women, how stereotypes manifest and evolve in popular culture, and the trends evidencing the affect of our perception of girlhood.

While parents or parents-to-be will be especially interested in this book, it's a fascinating read for ages 14 and up. The writing is accessible enough for this age; some readers may not appriciate it for a few more years, but it's a great introduction to the subject. 

Other things I liked about this book:

• The anecdotes and statistics scattered throughout the book were balanced nicely with analysis and personal stories.
• There is enough repetition to convey Orenstein's point--pretty in pink is more harmful than we thought--but the writing never gets tired.
• The cover provides visual introduction to the book, with sparkles, pink, a fluffy dress, and a nice touch of irony.
• The author's honest narration of her journey from opinionated journalist to mother is easy to identify with, even for those without daughters.

Other books you may enjoy: The Triple Bind, by Stephen Hinshaw; Full Frontal Feminism, by Jessica Valenti; Schoolgirls (and other books by Peggy Orenstein)

Other links: The author discussing Cinderella Ate My Daughter with radio host Michael Krasny; What's Wrong With Cinderella?, an article by Peggy Orenstein that preceded her Cinderella book; Peggy Orentsein's website

Happy reading!

M. Gabrielle