Person
Every book Moira Weigel recommended on podcasts
Moira Weigel appears on The Book Review to discuss the cultural history of mid-century media, feminism, and publishing, specifically focusing on the life and legacy of Helen Gurley Brown. As a scholar and critic, Weigel brings historical depth to discussions surrounding gender roles and media figures. During the conversation, she recommends Jennifer Scanlon's 2009 book Bad Girls Go Everywhere, written by a gender and women's studies professor, as an essential read on the subject. Weigel also examines the initial critical reception of Helen Gurley Brown's breakout 1962 book Sex and the Single Girl, noting a famously harsh review written by Gloria Steinem. Furthermore, Weigel references biographical details unearthed in Jerry Hershey's research regarding Helen Gurley Brown's husband, David Brown, and his professional associations within the film industry, including an anecdote about film producer Darryl Zanuck appearing at a funeral. Through her detailed commentary, Weigel presents herself as a rigorous cultural historian who unpacks the complex intersections of media, gender politics, and literary criticism in twentieth-century America.
Books recommended by Moira Weigel
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Bad Girls Go Everywhere
Bad Girls Go Everywhere is a biographical study by Jennifer Scanlon that examines the life, career, and cultural impact of legendary Cosmopolitan editor Helen Gurley Brown.
Recommended“I might also recommend this 2009 book called bad girls go everywhere that by a gender and women studies Professor named Jennifer scandin”
Where to get it
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Portrait of a marriage
Discussed“I think in the Hershey book it comes up that at his funeral Daryl Zano the film producer who had worked with him GLE Brown's husband was a film producer David Brown”
Where to get it
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Sex and the single girl
Sex and the Single Girl by Helen Gurley Brown is a groundbreaking 1962 bestseller and cultural phenomenon that encouraged financially independent women to embrace their careers and personal autonomy before marriage.
Discussed“Gloria dyam writes a really mean review of uh of Sex and the single girl which was Helen Gurley Brown's breakout book in 1962”
Where to get it
Appearances
| Episode | Podcast | Date | Books |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inside The New York Times Book Review: The Life of Helen Gurley Brown | The Book Review | 2024-07-18 | 4 |