The Beauty Myth

by Naomi Wolf
The Beauty Myth cover
Good Books rating 4.25
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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  • ID: 9521
  • Added: 2026-01-01
  • Updated: 2026-01-01
  • ISBN: 9780099861904
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 1991-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Naomi Wolf's 'The Beauty Myth' is a powerful and eye-opening examination of the beauty industry's impact on women's lives. It delves into the ways in which societal standards of beauty are used to control and limit women, exploring the psychological and emotional toll this takes. Wolf argues that these standards are not about enhancing women's lives but about maintaining patriarchal control. The book is a call to action, encouraging women to recognize and resist these coercive beauty myths. It combines personal anecdotes, historical context, and sharp cultural critique to make a compelling case for change. Wolf's passionate and hard-hitting investigation has made 'The Beauty Myth' an international bestseller and a seminal work in feminist literature.

Reviews
InBreakthrough · 2020-08-31
relevant 4.00

The book's premise remains relevant, though some aspects may feel unrelatable to modern readers. It effectively highlights ongoing societal issues related to beauty standards.

The reviewer acknowledges that while reading 'The Beauty Myth' in 2020 as an Indian woman can feel slightly disconnected, the core message of the book still resonates strongly. They appreciate how the book addresses the enduring impact of beauty standards on women, making it a timely and relevant read. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of societal pressures insightful and impactful, even if some personal experiences may not align perfectly with the author's perspective.

Quick quotes

    While reading it in 2020 as an Indian woman can feel slightly unrelatable, the overall premise is one that continues to hit where it hurts.

    The book effectively highlights ongoing societal issues related to beauty standards.

    It remains a powerful and relevant exploration of the pressures women face.

Women's Library · 2017-06-15
eye-opening 4.25

The book is depressing but eye-opening, offering valuable insights into the societal pressures on women. It is a must-read for those interested in feminist literature.

The reviewer describes 'The Beauty Myth' as a depressing yet eye-opening read that provides valuable insights into the societal pressures faced by women. They appreciate the book's ability to teach them new things about the beauty myth and its impact on women's lives. Despite the pessimistic overtones, the reviewer finds the book to be a must-read for anyone interested in feminist literature, as it challenges readers to think critically about the beauty standards imposed on women.

Quick quotes

    Even within the first four or five chapters, despite the depressingly pessimistic overtones and themes, it was teaching me things about the beauty myth.

    The book is a must-read for those interested in feminist literature.

    It offers valuable insights into the societal pressures on women.

The Guardian · 2005-10-18
brilliant 4.50

The book is brilliant and bracing, though it could have benefited from some editing. It presents a compelling argument about the societal impact of beauty standards.

The reviewer finds 'The Beauty Myth' to be a brilliant and bracing book that makes a compelling case about the societal impact of beauty standards. They note that the book could have been improved with some robust pruning, as certain sections feel overly dense or repetitive. Despite this, the reviewer appreciates the book's bold and thought-provoking arguments, which challenge readers to reconsider their perceptions of beauty and its role in society.

Quick quotes

    The Beauty Myth doesn't always convince. It might have benefited from some robust pruning.

    But it is a brilliant, bracing book.

    When you see something that is not there, that is what you call faith.

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