I must admit: the elitist in me doubted that a book whose bold title in hot pink letters, could contain any legitimate gender research. Lo and behold, my cynical intuitions were accurate. When you purchase a book spashed in the colour of a Barbie doll’s shoes, you will read work which is equally uninspiring.

Levy claims that currently, women not only participate in their own objectification, but even seem to have a misguided relishing of it. Admittedly, this thesis is correct. However, instead of offering critical analysis of the beliefs and structures which serve to maintain this particular variant of misogyny, Levy relies heavily on anecdotal evidence to make her argument. What little discussion of second wave feminism is included, is skimpy.

Though interesting at times, Levy’s account is ultimately shallow. It may appeal to readers who are just beginning to take an interest in “the F word” (FEMINISM, of course!), however, readers with a more advanced knowledge of the body of modern feminist literature produced by Greer, Dworkin, MacKinnon and others, will find this book lacking intellectual rigor. This book certainly does not belong in a Women’s Studies 101 syllabus, but it might make for good “beach reading”.

A final thought: suggesting that any woman (no matter how deplorable her actions) is a “pig” undermines the feminist agenda, which, broadly construed, is to improve the lives and status of all women.

- katherine