In Feminist AF: A Guide to Crushing Girlhood, three members of the Crunk Feminist Collective come together to write a guidebook for feminism and growing up. Authors Brittney Cooper, Chanel Craft Tanner, and Susana M. Morris discuss topics like self-confidence, beauty standards, relationships, and more, all from a unique and intersectional feminist framework. As part of the Crunk Feminist Collective, Cooper, Tanner, and Morris approach each topic from a framework of “crunk feminism.”
Feminism has a long and rich history, with several different traditions/practices. Crunk feminism is rooted in a specific tradition, that of Hip Hop feminism, and it is wholly concerned with intersectionality and community. The authors write, “We cheer for everybody feminist—trans girls, cis girls, girls with disabilities, BIPOC girls, queer girls, working-class girls, nonbinary folx, and our non-girl allies.” From this space, Feminist AF regards each topic with care, considering different identities and realities. For instance, the chapter on beauty and body image takes into account how body size, gender identity, skin color, and more can impact one’s self image.
At it’s heart, Feminist AF is about empowering readers to embrace a feminist self-love with practical advice. The authors share how feminism has enriched their own lives. Readers learn how the authors came to feminism, and what keeps them grounded and confident in the fight for gender equality. The book also encourages readers to continue developing their feminism: sprinkled throughout the chapters are watchlists, playlists, articles, and other additional resources. With all of that, Feminist AF captures diverse applications and representations of feminism, guiding readers through these complex ideas with fun, wit, and responsibility. While Feminist AF’s target audience is tweens and teens, these are important messages and lessons for feminists of all ages.
Take Action! Read Feminist AF: A Guide to Crushing Girlhood, or pass it along to a young person who you think would enjoy the book.
