Review: A Tale of Two Titties - Meg Vondriska

Review: A Tale of Two Titties - Meg Vondriska - October 2023


"A Tale of Two Titties: A Guide to Writing Women Like a Bestselling Male Author" by Meg Vondriska offers a hilarious yet scathing critique of the portrayal of women in literature, particularly by male authors. With a title that grabs attention and a premise that promises both humor and insight, Vondriska takes readers on a journey through the often absurd and offensive representations of female characters in bestselling books.

The book begins with a blunt acknowledgment of the dismal state of women's representation in literature, attributing much of the blame to male authors who reduce female characters to mere objects or plot devices. Vondriska's approach is refreshingly candid as she exposes the pervasive stereotypes, tropes, and objectification that plague female characters in fiction.

Through a combination of literary analysis, interactive exercises, and witty commentary, Vondriska offers readers a toolkit for writing women that mimics the style of bestselling male authors. From fill-in-the-blank exercises to word searches and scenario prompts, she provides ample opportunity for readers to practice writing through the male gaze, all the while highlighting the absurdity of such portrayals.

One of the book's strengths lies in its use of authentic examples from well-known authors like Stephen King and John Steinbeck to illustrate the perpetuation of misogynistic and trope-filled female characterizations in fiction. These examples serve as sobering reminders of the prevalence of problematic portrayals of women in literature, even by celebrated authors.

Vondriska's writing strikes a delicate balance between satirical humor and righteous indignation, making for an engaging and thought-provoking read. She deftly navigates the fine line between entertainment and social commentary, never shying away from calling out the injustices inherent in the portrayal of women in literature.

Despite the book's humorous tone, its message is clear and urgent: it's time to dismantle the system from within by subverting the tired conventions of male-authored fiction. "A Tale of Two Titties" serves as both an illuminating study of women's representation in literature and a practical guide for writers looking to challenge the status quo.

In conclusion, Meg Vondriska's "A Tale of Two Titties" is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of gender and literature. With its blend of humor, insight, and activism, it offers a compelling call to action for writers to do better when it comes to portraying women on the page.



Amazon: https://amzn.to/4e5ukDK