LecturesB, contributor to the 20 Minutes Books reading group, recommends “The Women’s Olympic Games” by Samantha Feitelson, published on June 7, 2024 by Éditions Beta publisher.
His favorite quote:
« Sport has this almost magical power to push women out of their comfort zone and discover talents they sometimes didn’t know they had! »
Why this book?
- Because this book is a nest of culture. It provides a detailed and entertaining historical perspective on the evolution of women’s participation in the Olympic Games, highlighting the pioneers who paved the way.
- Because Samantha Feitelson addresses persistent challenges such as pay gaps, insufficient media coverage, and harassment, providing a realistic and engaging view of the obstacles to overcome.
- Because the book celebrates success and progress made possible by iconic figures in women’s sport, inspiring readers with stories of resilience and triumph.
- Because the women’s Olympic Games explore current and promising initiatives to promote gender equality in sport.
- Because this book is essential reading for those who are interested in gender equality, sport and women’s rights, enriching the understanding of current and future issues in the world of sport.
The essentials in 2 minutes
The plot. Women in the Olympics explores the evolution of women’s participation in the Olympic Games, from early exclusions to progress toward equality. The book highlights persistent challenges, initiatives for inclusion, and inspiring stories of women’s sport pioneers.
Characters. This book cites many sportswomen such as Kathrine Switzer, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Manon Rhéaume, Serena Williams, Jeannie Longo, Gertrude Ederle, Billie Jean King, Wilma Rudolph, Allyson Felix, Fatma Samoura…
Places. All the places that hosted the Olympic Games from 1900 (Paris) where women were able to participate. Saint-Louis, London, Stockholm, Antwerp, Paris, Amsterdam, Los Angeles, Berlin, Helsinki, Melbourne, Rome, Tokyo, Mexico, Munich, Montreal, Moscow, Seoul, Barcelona…
The time. From 1900 (and even before…) to today.
The author. Author of the romance saga Ad Mortem and The Little Guide to Feminism for All, Samantha Feitelson lives in Geneva where she teaches music in primary school, combining it with her passion for literature.
This book was read as good preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympics!
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