Rebecca Solnit

Rebecca Solnit is an American writer, historian, and activist. She is the author of numerous books on feminism, western and indigenous history, popular power, social change and insurrection, wandering and walking, hope and disaster, including 'Men Explain Things to Me' and 'A Paradise Built in Hell: The Extraordinary Communities That Arise in Disaster'. Her work is known for its insightful analysis of social issues and its contributions to feminist discourse.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Hope in the Dark

    Cover of 'Hope in the Dark' by Rebecca Solnit

    "Hope in the Dark" is a powerful and inspiring exploration of the transformative power of hope in times of uncertainty. The book challenges the notion that hope is a passive emotion, instead arguing that it is an active process that can inspire change and action. Using a series of historical examples, the author demonstrates how hope has been a driving force in social and political movements, and encourages readers to remain hopeful, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

  2. 2. The Faraway Nearby

    Cover of 'The Faraway Nearby' by Rebecca Solnit

    "The Faraway Nearby" is a reflective exploration of the interconnectedness of the world, seen through the lens of the author's personal experiences and relationships. The book delves into themes of empathy, storytelling, and the human capacity for both kindness and cruelty, using the author's relationship with her mother and her struggle with illness as a poignant backdrop. The narrative weaves in and out of different topics and locations, from the Arctic to fairy tales, drawing insightful connections and offering a unique perspective on the human condition.

  3. 3. Men Explain Things To Me

    Cover of 'Men Explain Things To Me' by Rebecca Solnit

    This book is a collection of essays that delve into the issues of feminism, gender inequality, and the pervasive problem of men dismissing and undermining women's voices. It opens with a now-iconic essay that recounts a personal experience where the author was patronizingly lectured to about her own book by a man who failed to recognize her as its author. The essays explore the cultural phenomenon where women's knowledge and expertise are often questioned or ignored, leading to broader discussions about power dynamics, violence against women, and the struggle for women's rights. Through incisive commentary and sharp wit, the book examines the silencing of women and calls for a more equitable social discourse.