From the Stacks: Steinem's 'My Life on the Road' details famous feminist's early days

"My Life on the Road" by Gloria Steinem
"My Life on the Road" by Gloria Steinem

Gloria Steinem was a mystery to me. My sister loves her, but I hear people bashing her as being a man-hater. I found it hard to make a decision on her knowing the media likes to portray people in a way they want the viewer to believe. I have never read anything she wrote until now. Being a part of Emma Watson's book club, "Our Shared Self" on Goodreads.com, the first book Emma chose was Steinem's "My Life on the Road."

Feminism is probably one of the most misunderstood words people throw around in a conversation. Steinem has been called a feminist, and it is not said as a compliment. After reading this book, meeting Gloria is now on my bucket list. I found it interesting how Steinem describes her early life and how her father traveled all the time and how his traveling influenced her. Her time in India was especially special, and her descriptions were so vivid that I felt like I was there with her. Her travels have shaped her and continue to shape her today.

After some minor writing gigs, Esquire gave Gloria her first serious writing assignment. Steinem, a freelance writer, wrote articles for Huntington Hartford's Show Magazine, Cosmopolitan and New York Magazine, and in 1972 co-founded Ms. Magazine with Dorothy Pitman Hughes. Ms. Magazine focused on women's issues of the time.

She spends time talking about her speaking engagements and her activism. Steinem never slows down. She is always moving, fighting for the rights of women. In 1971, she was one of 300 women who founded the National Women's Political Caucus.

Simply put, Gloria was instrumental in helping women gain basic rights; however, Gloria has a passion for everyone's rights. During her time on the road she has met many important people and experienced many events in America's history. Her book is a must-read, and I admire what she has done for every person on the planet.

Brian Bray is the IT specialist at Missouri River Regional Library.