Reviews with content warning for Sexual assault - Shit Cassandra Saw: Stories

I may have been drawn to Shit Cassandra Saw by the title - apart from its obvious appeal my mother wanted to name me Cassandra so I have a bit of an affinity for the name - but I definitely stayed for the stories. They were rollicking and ferocious, overtly feminist, and a compelling mix of historical and contemporary. They not only highlighted the rough deal women have often received, but the many and varied ways, real and imaginary, they have fought back. Cassandra, justifiably peeved with men, is delighted to know the name Trojan will forever become synonymous with condoms, and at the opportunities condoms will provide for women. In another story, women, after being bitten by radioactive cockroaches, have developed a range of powers - think fangs and claws as well as a remote control to switch men off - to deal with the many aggressions both large and small that they have to contend with. I also liked the historical stories which included a prostitute in Patagonia lamenting being shamed for her work when there are really no other choices available, the first known witch hanged in Wales, and crossing dressing pirates relishing their freedom. The collection also acknowledges the ways the patriarchy can harm men. My favourite story in this category was formatted as a Yelp restaurant review but actually examined how the male narrator struggled with stereotypical roles and issues within his marriage. This wasn’t a perfect feminist collection - for instance there is a lack of intersectionality - and not all of the stories worked for me. Those that did were real standouts with pithy pointed observations, fresh and fun perspectives, and zingy prose. I enjoyed my time with these and will be on the lookout for more by their author.

Content Warnings