Plot Summary

Asking for It

Kate Harding
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Asking for It

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2015

Book Brief

Kate Harding

Asking for It

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2015
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2015

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Asking for It by Kate Harding is a critical exploration of rape culture, dissecting who rapists are and debunking harmful myths that perpetuate victim blaming. Harding argues that society often misconstrues rapists as abstract monsters rather than recognizing them as ordinary individuals, leading to a pervasive misconception that mistakenly holds victims responsible. The book calls for a cultural shift towards understanding consent, addressing bystander responsibility, and combatting rape myths to effectively tackle rape culture. Sensitive topics such as sexual assault, rape, and victim blaming appear throughout the book.

Informative

Unnerving

Challenging

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.5

4,545 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

In Asking for It, Kate Harding delves into the cultural and systemic underpinnings of rape culture, blending sharp analysis with personal anecdotes. Reviews commend its clear, compelling argument and timely relevance. Criticisms focus on its direct, confrontational tone, which some find contentious. Overall, Harding's work is praised for its thoughtfulness and call to action.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Asking for It?

Ideal for readers passionate about feminist theory, social justice, and the #MeToo movement, Asking for It by Kate Harding appeals to those engaged by works like Roxane Gay's Bad Feminist or Rebecca Solnit's Men Explain Things to Me. It's perfect for those who seek a critical examination of rape culture and its societal implications.

4.5

4,545 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2015

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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