Our Shared Shelf discussion
Miscellaneous
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Introduction
Hermione_7870 wrote: "Hiya! I'm Hermione(it is my real name btw) and I'm from England.I joined this because I believe in equality a lot. And I mean a lot"
Hi-- I love your name. I had only heard the name once before Harry Potter, but fell in love with hermione granger. I'm too old to have any more kids, but my new kitten is named Hermione :0) Welcome!
Dear all,I'm Philly (or the long version: Philomena) and I'm from Germany.
I read about "Our Shared Shelf" on the internet and I think it's an amazing idea. Gender Equality is such an important topic (at this point I can only agree with Hermione: I also absolutely believe in Equality) and I got the feeling that there are not enough people who get involved into the discussion. Gender Studies is also part of my Studies at the university which is another reason why the topic is of interest for me. And then - of course - I love books a lot, especially those that teach me something. Finally, I admire Emma Watson for her work at the UN.
Hello everyone! My name is Emily, I'm 26 years old and I live in the United States. I have a transgender sister and a limb-different partner, so day-to-day adversity is something of which I'm incredibly aware and dedicated to unpacking at every opportunity.I joined this book club for a myriad of reasons, including my admiration for Emma Watson. I also joined to find a sense of community among feminists. I graduated from college almost four years ago and have moved a great deal across the nation in that time. On that campus I left behind the wonderful feminist community that shaped me, and moving frequently across the country has made it difficult to establish such meaningful connections everywhere I go. The great thing about OSS is ya'll are always with me!
As far as what I hope to accomplish by joining OSS, reading is my form of meditation. I struggle with anxiety and ADHD to varying degrees on any given day, and reading helps me be mindful and present. Reading feminist works along with all of you has already done so much to improve my focus and motivation to channel my energies into constructive, rather than destructive, thought patterns
I'd love to connect with as many of you as possible, feel free to send a friend request my way!
Hi my name is Samantha. I am new to Good Reads but a long time fan of Emma. I am from New Jersey (not to far from the city). I cannot wait to get into the reading, for April.
Samantha
Hey everyone!My name is Rasha, I am 23 years old and live in Austria!
Feminism is such an important topic - nowadays as it was in the past. Although I think that its meaning has been altered and is unfortunately not very popular today, I am convinced that people like Emma Watson are needed to go back to the roots of its original meaning. No woman (or man) should be ashamed of calling him- or herself a feminist!
I was so moved by Emmas speech and her interview with Malala (and Malala in general - I mean this girl is just awesome) that I did some research on it and found this book club just now!
I am happy to be part of this project and am grateful that Emma had this wonderful idea!
Cheers :)
Hi, everyone! I'm Lily, 26 and I guess I've always been a feminist, though I rarely bring it up because often I get negative responses. So glad Emma set this place up for us--I honestly don't remember how I got here! I'm a Ravenclaw, for the Harry Potter fans here, and I love to read! :D
Hullos :-) My name is Gaines. I mainly read sci-fi and fantasy, but now and then I'll wander into other genres. For me, a good story is a good story, no matter how it's categorized. I have, however, noticed that sci-fi, and hard sci-fi in particular, tends to be dominated by male perspectives and male-centric subject matter. Things are changing, which is great to see (thanks to some very bold and innovative authors, too many to name!), but I'd love to read more written by and about women, to be honest. I guess that's part of what drew me to this group. I'm from the US originally, but moved to Australia about nine years ago to be with my wife. I'm a freelance translator by trade. My favourite pickles are dill, my lucky number either eludes me or changes from day to day (not sure which), and I like to parrot-watch from the balcony with a glass of red in hand.
I also run a Goodreads group called Short Fiction, a cross-genre group of readers who enjoy short stories, flash fiction, etc etc.
Nice to meet you all :-)
Hello, my name is Zach. I would have commented earlier, but I have been irrationally afraid to. I enjoy reading almost anything, fiction or non-fiction.
Okay so I'm late to the game and that's okay. I'm Catrice, I'm 40 years old and a mother to three teenagers. 19 - Bi female, 17 - Pan Androgynous female, 16 - Bi female, and we have living with us a friend who is 17 - Asexual non binary. We are a mixed family, white, black, aboriginal. I'm polyamorous, pansexual, and an energy worker.I sound a lot weirder than I am, I'm pretty much a mom that works as a massage therapist and reiki practitioner as I work through school for nursing and doctorate of naturopathy.
I'm interested in feminism as it relates to all people. I think we have to move past just helping women and realize that there are inconsistencies and unfairness for everyone and they should be dealt with. "Boys will be boys" is unfair to men as much to women, and non conforming. The idea that broad sweeping comments on any gender, race, sex, or sexuality is okay is just, well, not!
I'm nowhere near perfect on this but I'm growing and learning and so is my family.
Hello everyone, my name is Jade. I'm 16, and a dual-credit student at a community college (that means I take college courses and high school classes at the same time). I'm a writer and a fangirl, and I hope to learn from the people in this group.
i didn't realize this thread was here, so i'm jumping in, even tho i've posted on other threads before. my name is sandra, gonna be 69 this year, born in the u.s., now living in mexico. i remember the beginnings of the women's movement and how against it i was at the time! however, moving to the beach in so. california in the 60's opened my mind in so many ways i can't even begin to list them. glad to be part of this community. would love to get in on the penpal thing, but don't know quite how. i hope someone will let me know - i think it would be great! i've found this group to be stimulating, intelligent, and thought-provoking, and am learning all the time from you all.
Mod
Thank you Ana. And Happy ANZAC Day :-)
Hey all! I'm Princess Fernandez. I'm 24 and originally from San Diego, but I'm currently a senior at UC Riverside and majoring in Creative Writing.I joined this group because I'm a fan of Emma's, I love books and reading, and college has really opened my eyes to the nuances of feminism. And I believe the collective effort of this group is a great step in the right direction in terms of continuing the cultural conversation.
Hi All! Bit late to the game but I'm Nina I'm 25 from Hertfordshire , U.K. And I'm just getting back into reading.
I joined this group because I want to understand more about feminism, I'm all for equality and human rights but would just love to broaden my horizons as to speak.
Hi gang,A little late to posting in here, but have been following along very casually, but now that my year's uni work is over for the next few months I thought I'd get back into it.
I'm feeling 22 at the moment :P and am originally from Berlin in Germany but spent most of my life in Norfolk (UK) and now split my time between London and Norfolk.
I joined because I always enjoy having new recommendations for books, I also want to engage in more feminist discussions that are more diverse than what my day-to-day life.
Thanks guys.
Hello everyone!I'm Vin, 25. I'm from the Philippines. I'm a Nurse
I joined this group because because of Ema and I came from a country where most of the population do not understand what feminism is. I been helping to change that and i'm starting from myself.
For the past few years I've been learning about Feminism. And it made me realize the current state of equality between genders especially in our country. I hope every fight we chose will help us and other people be happier. And i'm hopeful that we will all succeed.
Hi everyone!My name is Shirley, 21 and I'm from the Netherlands. I'm currently in my first year of psychology studies :)
I joined Our Shared Shelf because I started noticing more and more around me that women are being treated unfairly and that is seems normal to most people, even my mother. So I want to do something about it, and I feel this is a good way to start!
When I've finished my studies I want to start my own business and although I get a lot of support, I still feel like it's a lot harder for a woman than for a man and it's time to change that :)
Hi, I'm Antonella and I'm Italian girl. I join this group because I love read and I'm a fan of Emma :)
Hi Everyone!I'm Christine, 17. And I'm a Psychology Major Student from the Philippines. Joining this kind of book club again was awesome! I mean, I'm so happy I've found some books I enjoy reading because honestly, I haven't read a book for fun in two years, and it's great to be back again. So happy ..
Anyway, nice to meet you all. xxx
Mod
Katelyn, it's my pleasure to join a book club again :)
Hi, my name is Sue. I live in the US in the tiny state of Delaware (in the mid-Atlantic).I love to read and belong to 2 in-person book groups, 2 online book groups, sometimes go to my library's book group, and now this one! Yup, I'm addicted to discussing books!
I also write a blog about books, featuring book reviews, Top 10 lists, book news, and other fun.
Sue
Book By Book
Hi All,I stumbled upon this group on twitter while searching #feminism. I am a 26 year old woman who has recently come into her own and I am feeling a little lost in the world. I have always been a passionate person, but it has taken me a little time to find what it truly is that I stand for in this world. I am an animal advocate and a feminist who believes all living things have value and that gender equality should be something that happened decades ago.
Within the last year, I just started reading the Harry Potter series (yes I know I'm way behind the times lol). As silly as it may sound, getting lost in those books has made me feel like more of a grown up than I ever have. I of course find myself identifying with Hermoine, but better yet, the real life version Emma Watson. I love that such a wonderful person exists on this planet, and I am so happy that I stumbled upon this group here.
I just wanted to say that I have been struggling with the backlash I get from the majority of people around me for my beliefs, and it gets quite exhausting. I'm told that feminism is not needed, and that I spend too much time helping animals when there is more in the world that needs my attention. This happens on a daily basis, and I find it so hard and uncomfortable at times just to be myself.
I have reached out to a close friend who is a little older than me, who has gone through so many similar things. She mentioned finding a group or community where I can express myself and share similar opinions with others. I am hoping that I just hit the mother load and have found that place :).
I do not mean to be too sappy, and I am not necessarily looking for a pat on the back. I am just meaning to express my gratitude towards the fact that this group exists. I do realize that not everyone will always have the same views and opinions, but I would love to be a part of something that I share similarities with. Some place where people post about empowering books and their take on things. A place where I can be myself and not feel bad, and have mature discussions with others.
I am very happy that I have found this book shelf. I cannot wait to start reading along with you all.
Xo Lori
Hey all, I'm 42, male, from South Carolina, USA. Been following Emma on Twitter and saw this group so had to check it out. I'm all for sexual equality and empowering women. Love the idea of a female protagonist vs the damsel In distress. Beauty and the Beast is my favorite fairy-tale. can't wait for the movie.
My name is Josh, I am 24 years old, and I am from New Jersey, USA.I joined this group for a few reasons. First, I hold high respect for Emma Watson in how she is an avid reader and independent thinker. Her love for reading is evident in the roles she plays, whether it be Hermione Granger, Sam from The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Belle from Beauty & The Beast, or any other role that is related to books and literature.
Second, I want the idea of any group of people feeling they are being naturally superior to another buried away once and for all. I feel that people need to be placed on an equal playing field and what they decide to do from there, regardless of gender, should be up to them. The ability to challenge, think, and act is something that everyone should possess and I feel that a group like this is a step in the right direction. Thank you for joining the Goodreads community, Ms. Watson!
Hello everyone! I just joined the group. First of all, books are a huge part of my life! I read, write and blog a little. Second, I am a Emma Watson fan. I have never really considered myself a feminist but as I get older I see it in myself more.
Hi, I'm Daniela I'm from the united states, I love reading books and joined this club because I'm a fan of Emma Watson. Also, because I wanted to read books about feminism, and learn more about the unequal rights that women have, and how we can help to stop that.
Hi, I'm Tara and I'm in the UK. I use literature to help women gain confidence, self esteem and improve their wellbeing whilst guiding them to achieve their goals and ambitions. The character of Hermione can be great for people to look at and feel inspired to let go of their fears and go for it! I admire Emma Watson and the work she does and I too am a feminist. Looking forward to reading more fabulous book recommendations and helping more women heal with them.
hi my name is pooja, and I'm book lover, and wish to join this group as I feel it'll introduce me to some great books. thanks!
Hello!! My name is Apoorva.I am 23. I am from India.I love to read plus I am a huge Emma fan.
Mod
Hello everyone!! I'm Nick, I'm 17, I'm from Italy and I love reading. I joined this group first because I would like to learn something new about Feminism and then because I love Emma Watson! (I think she is fantastic and brilliant).I'm proud to be in this club
...and sorry for my English..it is not very good..
Hi everyone! I'm Medha and i'm from Omaha, Nebraska. Growing up, I always wanted to find something that I was passionate about. About 2 years ago, my friend was talking about how she got whistled at when she was going to work and I felt angry and realized how passionate I was about feminism.
Emma Watson is a role model to me, esically because she was Hermoine (i;m a huge HP nerd). i can't wait read all about feminism and talk to everyone!
I am so bad at intros. My name Robert. I joined this club to meet some new people and have some positive discussion about feminism, gender equality ( or lack thereof) and respect of one another. I look forward to the road ahead as we read together and have civil discussion about the topics at hand.
Hey all, I'm hannah from Australia.I've joined this group because of my constant search for new reading material, and also to learn more and engage more in a topic I feel so passionate about. x
Mod
Fun fact! As of right now, we're 134,498 lovely, feminist souls here. Hear us roarrrrrr!!!!!!
More than yesterday, less than tomorrow, as we like to say around my neck of the woods. Like Katelyn said, welcome everybody!! Hope you have a grand time with us in the following months. To be honest, this works like a huge community where everybody has a voice and helps each other, but still, we the mods are here for any particular question that you may have. :) See you around!
Hello Everyone!Roarrr! I hope you have a nice evening or any other time :)
I'm Agnieszka, I live in Poland and read a lot (surprise!) I've been chcecking on this gropu since Caitlin Moran's book (which I just started), but it was The Argonauts that really got to me. I loved it and I would probably never find it if not for you!
I also read the discussions with pleasure and interest, so go on! Let's talk and spread love :*
Hello All!My name is Robert Campbell, 34 and I am currently from Calgary Alberta, Canada.
The reason I joined this group and am enjoying it so far is...
I believe in the Movement. Its an uphill battle that in my opinion will never be fully realized, but that is no reason not to fight for it.
And who knows maybe I`m wrong and complete Gender Equality can be achieved(wouldn't it be nice).
So I`m all set to read things I would normally not pick up and thus learn things I would not normally and become a better feminist and then by extension a better person.
There is still much that I need to change regarding myself and I am hoping this group helps me develop a better sense of acceptance, more compassion, and understanding among other things.
I also love reading the discussions and `spreading the love`, However I`m very shy and Introverted and found writing even this Introduction rather hard, something else I am hoping to get out of this group.
I'm Aimee, I'm 22, and I didn't know about this club until I heard Emma Watson speak about it in an interview - and three minutes later, here I am !! I would love to make new "sisters" and to learn how to better help the women in my life.
Now Im going to read all of the interesting responses people have left....
Nice to meet everyone :)
Hi, I'm Kenna! I'm pretty young compared to most people here but I wanted to join in order to learn a little bit more about feminism and kind of give a teen-perspective on everything. :) Nice to meet youu :)
Hi, I am Emily. I'm an Indie author myself. My genres are young adult fantasy and horror. I'm from Kentucky located in America. I have a morbid sense of humor. My ultimate goal is to write books that will change people's lives like the books I have read that changed my life. for me. Also I want to travel the world and own a tiara. I'm a huge Harry Potter fan so I knew about Emma Watson's book club, though it has taken me awhile to get the hang of goodreads, which is why I'm only joining now. I want to improve myself to be a better person, and I miss the book discussion classes I had in college. So I thought I join this group.
Mod
Kenna: We're glad to have members from different age brackets around! New perspectives are wonderful. I think you'll find some other teenage members around and about, as well.
I am a high-school drop out; achieved my GED, and took a year of trade school for automotive repair specializing in electrical and controller system diagnosis.Grew up and live Northwest if Chicago: The town that became news from the Browns Chicken murders back in the early 90's.
Joined to, well I am not really at liberty to say.
Learning as much as I can, though not well, about Feminism as a movement (hint to the OP).
Other than that: Being a shit ally.
Hi everyone!My name is Lorelai, but most people call me Rory (yes, it's a Gilmore Girl's reference). I'm 19 years old and I live in Ohio (USA).
I decided to join this book club because I love to read, and I love Emma Watson and what she stands for. My goals for myself during this book club are to become more educated about feminism and discuss my views with others.
Hello! I'm Josie, and I love to read and write. I have three brothers, who all look down on me simply because I'm a girl, even though I'm just as good at sports as any one of them. This has made me feminist, and I want to stop other girls from being looked down on the way I was.
Our Shared Shelf
Books mentioned in this topic
The House of the Spirits (other topics)You Can Live Happily Married for a Lifetime: Modern Applications of Proven, Timeless Wisdom to Create a Lasting, Successful Relationship (other topics)
Dancing With Ghosts (other topics)
Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg (other topics)
Women's Work (other topics)
More...
I joined this because I believe in equality a lot. And I mean a lot