RWR Book Club: Shrill

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This month’s selection for RWR Book Club Shrill by Lindy West — a fierce, funny, and radically honest memoir that confronts sexism, fatphobia, and what it means to take up space unapologetically in a culture that demands women be small, quiet, and compliant. West blends memoir, social critique, and laugh-out-loud humor to share her journey from self-silencing to self-ownership.

Book Summary

In this selection for our book club Shrill, Lindy West takes us through pivotal moments in her life — navigating body shame, internet trolls, workplace misogyny, and a culture that rewards silence over self-expression. Her voice is unapologetic and refreshingly vulnerable. Whether she’s confronting a cruel stand-up comedy industry or reclaiming her right to exist without apology, West keeps her sharp wit and searing insight front and center.

This book is a rally cry for women who’ve been told they’re too loud, too much, too fat, or too angry — and a love letter to those learning to stop shrinking themselves.

This Book Is Great If You…

• Are tired of apologizing for your size, opinions, or presence
• Want to laugh, cry, and nod along with stories that feel way too familiar
• Need validation that taking up space is powerful
• Appreciate sharp feminist analysis wrapped in real-life humor

Need a Copy?

Click here to grab your copy on Amazon

Why I Chose This Book

Shrill aligns perfectly with RWR’s mission: to redefine what results look like and reject restrictive norms. Lindy West’s journey isn’t about changing her body, it’s about reclaiming her voice. This book reminds us that joy, confidence, and self-worth aren’t rewards we earn through shrinking, they’re things we can claim right now.

Suggested 4-Week Reading Plan for Book Club Shrill

Week 1: Chapters 1–5 (Childhood + Early Adulthood)
Week 2: Chapters 6–10 (Workplace + Comedy Culture)
Week 3: Chapters 11–15 (Fat Activism + Public Backlash)
Week 4: Chapters 16–End (Reclaiming Joy + Final Thoughts)

Journal Prompts

1. What surprised you most about the connection between fatphobia and anti-Blackness?
2. Where have you seen these patterns in your own life or community?
3. What parts of this book made you uncomfortable — and what might that discomfort be pointing to?
4. How does your wellness work expand to include collective liberation?

FAQ

Q: Is this book only for plus-size readers?

A: Not at all. While West shares her experience as a fat woman, Shrill is for anyone who’s been told they’re “too much” — whether that means too loud, too smart, too sensitive, or too ambitious. The core message is universal: you don’t have to shrink to be accepted.

Q: Is this book more funny or serious?

A: Both. Lindy West is hilarious, but she also tackles serious issues with thoughtfulness and depth. Expect to laugh and cry — sometimes in the same chapter.

Q: Do I need to read her other books first?

A: Nope. Shrill is a standalone memoir and a great introduction to her work. If you enjoy her voice, check out The Witches Are Coming next.

Q: Is this book appropriate for younger readers or teens?

A: Shrill contains adult language and themes, including body image, sexism, and online harassment. While the content is empowering, it’s best suited for older teens and adults. If you’re thinking about sharing it with a younger reader, consider reading it first to gauge age-appropriateness.

Q: How does this book connect to Results Without Restriction?

A: Lindy West’s journey is a perfect example of rejecting societal restrictions whether it’s about your body, your voice, or your worth. She doesn’t chase the ideal of being “smaller” in any sense, and that’s exactly the kind of freedom and self-trust we champion at RWR. Her story reminds us that taking up space is not a flaw, it’s a form of resistance.

Keywords

• feminist memoirs, fat acceptance, body positivity books, women’s empowerment

Check out the other book selections in the RWR Book Club

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