Book cover of Leftover Women: The Resurgence of Gender Inequality in China

Book description

'Scattered with inspiring life-stories of courageous women.'
The Guardian

In the early years of the People's Republic, the Communist Party sought to transform gender relations. Yet those gains have been steadily eroded in China's post-socialist era.

Contrary to the image presented by China's media, women in China have experienced a…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked Leftover Women as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I bought this book on a whim, as a second-hand book, with proceeds going to help stray animals in China. I was delighted to discover it was an autographed copy and that the book was originally a PhD thesis.

This book is a sobering account of the gender inequalities that women still face in China today that are exacerbated by marriage, with case studies. It provides a cold, stark contrast to the romantic novels I enjoy reading and is a wake-up call that more needs to be done to promote gender equality, not only in China, where I live but…

This book by the leading expert on China’s feminist movement speaks to the modern-day realities of women in China – where the promise of the Communist revolution to deliver gender equality has been betrayed. Today’s women in China have experienced a dramatic rollback of the rights and gains they achieved early on. The structural discrimination against women in all sectors, from politics to business to relationships, is not easily overturned.


From Sheridan's list on Asian women.

If you love Leftover Women...

Ad

Book cover of Aggressor

Aggressor by FX Holden,

It is April 1st, 2038. Day 60 of China's blockade of the rebel island of Taiwan.

The US government has agreed to provide Taiwan with a weapons system so advanced that it can disrupt the balance of power in the region. But what pilot would be crazy enough to run…

Want books like Leftover Women?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Leftover Women.

Browse books like Leftover Women

Book cover of Factory Girls: From Village to City in a Changing China
Book cover of Bridget Jones's Diary
Book cover of The Good Women of China: Hidden Voices

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,277

readers submitted
so far, will you?

Ad

📚 If you like Leftover Women, you might also like...

Book cover of My Book Boyfriend

My Book Boyfriend by Kathy Strobos,

Lily loves her community garden. Rupert wants to bulldoze it. When feelings grow, will they blossom or turn to rubble?

"It literally had everything! - Bookworm Characters - Humor - Banter - Swoon-worthy lines."  - Book Reviewer.

Book cover of Everyday Medical Miracles: True Stories from the Frontlines in Women’s Health Care

Everyday Medical Miracles by Joseph S. Sanfilippo (editor),

Frontiers of Women from the healthcare perspective. A compilation of 60 true short stories written by an extensive array of healthcare providers, physicians, and advanced practice providers.

All designed to give you, the reader, a glimpse into the day-to-day activities of all of us who provide your health care. Come…

5 book lists we think you will like!