For the teenager navigating everyday sexism and searching for their voice, this book empowers young women to challenge societal norms and celebrate the strength of female friendship.
A parent might reach for this book when their teenage daughter is grappling with feelings of anger and frustration over everyday sexism and double standards. "What's a Girl Gotta Do?" follows Lottie, a passionate and determined teen who decides to document every sexist incident she encounters for a school project. Her project goes viral, sparking a movement but also attracting vicious online trolling and real-world threats. The book powerfully explores themes of justice, female friendship, and the emotional toll of activism. It is an excellent choice for older teens (14+) as it provides a realistic, validating, and often humorous look at finding your voice and fighting for what you believe in.
Deals with the significant mental health impact of online harassment, including panic attacks.
Substance ReferencesMild
Some mentions of underage drinking at parties.
Romantic ContentMild
Some kissing and discussion of relationships, but it is not the central focus of the plot.
Sensitive Topics
The book directly confronts sexism, sexual harassment (including non-consensual touching), and misogyny. It is a secular approach rooted in real-world feminist theory. It details the significant mental health impact of online trolling and public activism, including anxiety and panic attacks. The resolution is realistic and hopeful: while the systemic problems are not solved, Lottie finds strength in her community and learns the importance of self-care and boundaries.
Ideal Reader
A teen (14-18) who is just beginning to articulate their frustrations with social injustice and gender inequality. They might be feeling angry, isolated, or unsure of how to channel their feelings. Perfect for the politically-aware teen or one who is just starting to question the world around them.
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared to discuss topics like sexual harassment, online safety, trolling, mental health, and the definition of feminism. The book uses strong language and describes specific incidents of sexism and harassment that could be upsetting. A pre-read would be beneficial to facilitate conversation, particularly around the scenes of intense online abuse and Lottie's subsequent panic attacks. The parent hears their teen say something like, "It's so unfair! Why do the boys get away with that?" or "I'm just so tired of being told to smile," or sees them getting upset by sexist comments online or at school.
Age Experience
A 14-year-old might focus on the relatable school-based injustices and the power of friendship. They will feel validated in their anger. An 18-year-old may connect more deeply with the critiques of systemic sexism, the mental health toll of activism, and the complexities of navigating public versus private life online. Older readers will better grasp the feminist theory references.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many YA books that touch on feminism, this one puts activism and its consequences front and center. Its raw, unfiltered depiction of the emotional burnout and mental health struggles that accompany fighting for a cause is unique. The blend of righteous anger, genuine humor, and fierce female friendship makes it feel incredibly authentic and modern.
Read plot summary
Lottie Brooks, a studious A-Level student, launches a school project called the #Vagilante project. She vows to document and call out every instance of sexism she encounters, from street harassment to dress codes. The project gains huge traction online, turning her into a reluctant feminist icon. However, the viral fame comes with severe consequences, including vicious online trolling, threats, and a strain on her friendships and mental health. Lottie must navigate the highs and lows of activism while trying to stay true to herself and her friends in the Spinster Club.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Lottie's #Vagilante project gets a huge public response, both positive and negative. Do you think the benefits of her project outweighed the personal costs to her mental health? Why or why not?
2
Amber, Evie, and Lottie have very different ideas about what feminism means and how to practice it. Which character's approach do you relate to the most, and why?
3
When Lottie is targeted by vicious online trolls, the descriptions are very intense. How did reading that section make you feel? What do you think is the best way to handle online hate?
4
The Spinster Club is central to Lottie's support system. How does the friendship between the girls help Lottie get through the toughest moments of her campaign?
5
After everything she goes through, Lottie decides to continue her activism but in a different way. What do you think she learned about making a difference versus protecting herself?
