Radius: A Story of Feminist Revolution by Yasmin El-Rifae is a captivating novel that explores the struggle for equality and justice in Egypt through the eyes of four different women. This book sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of women in a country where patriarchy and gender inequality are deeply rooted.
The story begins with the Egyptian Revolution of 2011, where people were fighting against the oppressive regime of Hosni Mubarak. As the revolution unfolds, the lives of the four main characters intersect, each with their own unique experiences and perspectives. We have a young girl named Hend who is just discovering her sexuality and dealing with the expectations of her conservative family. Then there is Mariam, an activist fighting for a better future for her country. The third character is Reem, a queer woman who struggles to find acceptance in a society that she considers deviant. Finally, we have Amal, a middle-aged woman who has spent her entire life caring for her family and now questions the purpose of her existence.
As the story progresses, we see these four women navigate through a country in crisis. The author does an excellent job of portraying the realities of life in Egypt, especially for women, and the daily struggles they face. The story is not just about the revolution but also about the broader struggle for women’s rights and equality.
Radius: A History of Feminist Revolution is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding women’s struggles in Egypt and other patriarchal societies. The novel offers a powerful and revealing account of the feminist movement in Egypt and its challenges and triumphs. The book is a reminder of the importance of fighting for women’s rights and equality, not only in Egypt but around the world.
If you want to read this thought-provoking novel, you can download the PDF version for free here:
Reading this book will open your eyes to the realities of women’s lives in Egypt and inspire you to join the fight for gender equality.