Fiona Brichaut's Reviews > Gender Theory

Gender Theory is a heavy, intense novel, at times distressing, occasionally very moving. It deals with themes/events that may be upsetting for some readers, including sexuality and homophobia, substance and physical abuse, and mental and physical health issues.

It's a lot. Arguably, too much for one novel. I found the main character, Ella overwhelming, and it didn't help that I had a hard time warming to her. I found myself torn between intense sympathy and irritation.

One of the themes that I did identify with is how people with conditions such as endometriosis can be so often dismissed by the medical profession, often receiving scant attention and poor treatment. It's symptomatic of a broader dismissal of women. Plus ça change...

I was rather disappointed that the novel didn't live up to my expectations in one respect: with the title 'Gender Theory', I was really hoping for a more insightful exploration of gender. Apart from some nods to bi- and homosexuality, it was largely about heteronormative roles. Overall, I was left feeling it was all a bit shallow and self-indulgent.