Review of Beyond Leaning In

I enjoyed how you took the topic of gender equity and placed it in fiction form. It makes it more accessible to the reader. Rather than be lectured to, or have the ideas presented in a way that looks too much like a scientific (or business) presentation, you make it interesting and easily understood by placing it in a context anyone can understand. In fact, while reading it, I found myself realizing I'd been through many of the same experiences as your characters. Well done! The pacing kept my interest throughout, as did the structure and organization.

I think anyone in business, both male and female, will have come across what you describe. I like how you offer possible resolutions, as well as opportunities for discussion.

I found the characters easy to relate to. I felt their frustration and apathy over situations they felt they had no control over. You made me care about them as they struggle to put up with managers who aren't very good. Or situations that seem insurmountable.

Your writing style is fluid. You drew me right in and didn't let go until the end. It's engaging without being overly wordy or preachy. You describe emotions perfectly, making me get upset when someone is not treated well, to being happy for those who succeed.

It's nice to know I'm not the only one going through similar situations. It helps to understand how best to deal with obstacles and misunderstandings. It's thought-provoking and lends itself perfectly to begin a dialogue about such issues.

I can't think of anything to improve. It hits the nail on the head when it comes to gender issues and how best to utilize the gifts and talents each employee brings to the table. A great read!

Judge, 29th Annual Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Awards