67 pages • 2 hours read
Nicholas D. Kristof , Sheryl WuDunnHalf the Sky: Turning Oppression Into Opportunity for Women Worldwide
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2009A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In their 2009 nonfiction book Half the Sky: Turning Oppression Into Opportunity for Women Worldwide, Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn document the paramount moral challenge of the 21st century: the oppression of women and girls. Investigating issues like sex trafficking, gender-based violence, and maternal mortality, they share stories of survivors to humanize the problem and highlight successful grassroots efforts and the transformative power of education to inspire action. The narrative includes sensitive topics such as sexual and gender-based violence, medical negligence, and abuse.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Half the Sky by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn is acclaimed for its compelling advocacy for women's rights worldwide, blending harrowing anecdotes with an urgent call to action. While praised for its impactful storytelling and empowerment message, some critiques mention occasional oversimplification and Western-centric perspectives. Overall, it's a thought-provoking and inspiring read.
Who Should Read Half the Sky?
Readers who would enjoy Half the Sky by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn are typically passionate about social justice, global women's rights, and humanitarian advocacy. They might also appreciate works like I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai or The Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates, which address similar themes of empowerment and systemic change.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
1170LBook Details
Gender / Feminism
Social Justice
Women's Studies (Nonfiction)
Values/Ideas: Equality
Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice
Society: Community
Education