Editorial review
The Exclusion Effect: How the Sciences Discourage Girls & Women
By Kirsty Duncan
Both illuminating and revealing, Kirsty Duncan’s The Exclusion Effect: How the Sciences Discourage Girls & Women offers an action-driven narrative that is as personal as it is informative, with scientific research to bac...
Reviewed by CANREADS
Both illuminating and revealing, Kirsty Duncan’s The Exclusion Effect: How the Sciences Discourage Girls & Women offers an action-driven narrative that is as personal as it is informative, with scientific research to back it up. This book raises a past and current dilemma to the surface, and the author makes a solution imperative.
Duncan’s latest work is a well-researched critique of women’s exclusion in STEM fields, spanning from the early years of childhood to adulthood. Delivered through the lens of the author’s own experiences and supported by credible sources, Duncan weaves a call to action into her personal narrative, alerting readers to the ongoing relevance of this topic.
Duncan’s message, though at times repetitive, remains engaging and thought-provoking. While the book may appeal to a feminist audience, Duncan maintains a respectful and informative tone throughout, focusing on systemic issues rather than attributing responsibility to individuals such as men, parents, or educators. Her anecdotes are shared thoughtfully, and the historical tidbits in addition to the scientific findings on sexist behaviours, bias, and exclusion, are refreshing and eye-opening. For readers that love a little historical reference, it’s certainly worth a read.
Altogether, whether your interests lie in social issues, science, or history, Duncan’s novel is a worthy read that is all too relevant to today’s pop culture, backed by evidence, and strengthened with a stirring personal account.
—CANREADS TORONTO BOOK REVIEW
Published by Sutherland House Books