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Lady, You're Not a Man! : The Adventures of a Woman at Work
Todays woman wants to make a success of both family and career and is unwilling to compromise on either. But the burden of coping with deadlines, recalcitrant children, lazy husbands, difficult bosses and equally difficult in-laws can be daunting, even overwhelming. In this book, Apurva Purohit, CEO of Radio City 91.1 FM, shows how women can accept, adapt and achieve their way to the highest rung in every arena. Through real-life stories and funny anecdotes, she provides pithy tips on a multitude of topics: from training husbands to training interns, from the right attitude to getting it right with kids, from dealing with household crises to office emergencies, from building a reputation to paving ones way to the top. Warm, witty and empathetic, Lady, Youre Not a Man! is a must-read for every woman on the quest for work-home balance and determined to succeed in her career and live a happy and fulfilling life.
192 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
98 people are currently reading
699 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
July 2, 2020
Naive immature writing with a lot of problematic and self contradicting parts. If there's a better book addressing similar concerns, I'd advise you to leave this one out.
The author judges women who call their husbands by their initials while does calls her husband HD in the entire book. She talks about Husband training (?!), Men not being able to multitask (very factually), believing that women need no support or help from society and there should be no reservations - well as a privileged women you may never have felt the need for it. There is some cringey part in one of the chapters that says mothers and sisters should train their sons to be good boys so that their appeal to the female segment goes up, sons becoming attractive marriage partners so that they are not left on the shelf.
How is this not sexist or offensive. I found some parts of the book very irresponsibility written and with very little social knowledge.
At an overall level it's a quick read, little depth and a few points that you can incorporate in your life.
The author judges women who call their husbands by their initials while does calls her husband HD in the entire book. She talks about Husband training (?!), Men not being able to multitask (very factually), believing that women need no support or help from society and there should be no reservations - well as a privileged women you may never have felt the need for it. There is some cringey part in one of the chapters that says mothers and sisters should train their sons to be good boys so that their appeal to the female segment goes up, sons becoming attractive marriage partners so that they are not left on the shelf.
How is this not sexist or offensive. I found some parts of the book very irresponsibility written and with very little social knowledge.
At an overall level it's a quick read, little depth and a few points that you can incorporate in your life.
April 8, 2017
It was last year, on international women's day when Apurva Purohit came to our workplace to deliver a message and inspiring us. That's where few of us got a copy of her book. Clearly I missed the workshop and hence it took a year to finally read this little yet powerful book.
Working in corporate sectors over a decade, I know what the lady, a former CEO of radio city, a radio channel and a former head of Zee TV, is talking about. Yes, we're not man. We should accept that. And this is where the real journey starts. The book gives insights of lady's struggle in corporate world and ways to win it big. Of course, a tiny book of 180 pages would never suffice to tell the story. But Apurva got most of the issues and presented in a candid manners. The book goes humorous time to time and I can't help chuckle. Also she has given examples of her own household and workplace which are to-the-point and well-fitted. Her own journey is marvelous. I'm summarizing few points below, mostly for my own recollection. It's a book one should pick up occasionally and keep revisiting.
*Women are multitasking and hence they end up doing more work. But we should be grateful and take it as our strength.
*women should stop playing a martyr's rule. It's something comes to them very naturally.
*women grow confident with age and only grow better with time
*women should accept that they can be their own worst enemy.
*we should ask help, work hard, shouldn't take advantage of privileges, turn their family members into support system, be a team player at workplace.
*we should build relationships beyond work and use power of networking. Women often neglect this important task to rush to home after work.
*we shouldn't walk away from opportunities given to us, anticipating that sooner or later the family will take precedence.
*we should celebrate our success, take pride in our successful, smart single-hood.
*when it is in our hands we should bring up responsible kids who respect gender equality.
*building a good reputation is important than building a CV.
It's a summarized summary of her book. Though the book is written mostly for Indian working women, I think every women should read it. Because sisterhood is to celebrate, worldwide.
Working in corporate sectors over a decade, I know what the lady, a former CEO of radio city, a radio channel and a former head of Zee TV, is talking about. Yes, we're not man. We should accept that. And this is where the real journey starts. The book gives insights of lady's struggle in corporate world and ways to win it big. Of course, a tiny book of 180 pages would never suffice to tell the story. But Apurva got most of the issues and presented in a candid manners. The book goes humorous time to time and I can't help chuckle. Also she has given examples of her own household and workplace which are to-the-point and well-fitted. Her own journey is marvelous. I'm summarizing few points below, mostly for my own recollection. It's a book one should pick up occasionally and keep revisiting.
*Women are multitasking and hence they end up doing more work. But we should be grateful and take it as our strength.
*women should stop playing a martyr's rule. It's something comes to them very naturally.
*women grow confident with age and only grow better with time
*women should accept that they can be their own worst enemy.
*we should ask help, work hard, shouldn't take advantage of privileges, turn their family members into support system, be a team player at workplace.
*we should build relationships beyond work and use power of networking. Women often neglect this important task to rush to home after work.
*we shouldn't walk away from opportunities given to us, anticipating that sooner or later the family will take precedence.
*we should celebrate our success, take pride in our successful, smart single-hood.
*when it is in our hands we should bring up responsible kids who respect gender equality.
*building a good reputation is important than building a CV.
It's a summarized summary of her book. Though the book is written mostly for Indian working women, I think every women should read it. Because sisterhood is to celebrate, worldwide.
May 9, 2020
Hello everyone this year I promised myself to read something once a while that will empower me and so here I am with a review of this wonderful book.
A smart and brilliant book(guide) for working women, about the challenges they encounter as they endeavour to juggle work and home. This book is cheerful, amusing, practical and empathetic also, a must-read for every woman who is on the quest of balancing their work and home lives.
Read on to know more about this great book and about why I think you should most definitely give it a try!!
Now, this article is classified into four sections.
• Ratings and info about the book.
• The outline of the book.
• About the writing style.
• My views on the book.
Ratings and Info About the Book:
⁃ Title: Lady, you're not a man.
⁃ Author: Apurva Purohit
⁃ Rating:
↪ Botopsy rating: 5/5✨
↪ Goodreads: 3.9/5
↪ Amazon: 4.4/5
⁃ Length of the book: 185 pages long.
⁃ Genre: NonFiction/ Self-help.
⁃ First Published: 2013
⁃ Publisher: Rupa Publications.
⁃ Series: Standalone.
⁃ Format: Kindle edition.
⁃ Source: Amazon.
Outline
Today's woman yearns for perfect work and home equilibrium in her life and is reluctant to jeopardize either. But the challenges she confronts each day are more rigorous than the previous one, with meeting deadlines, child's responsibility, difficult bosses and lazy husbands(in some cases).
This book is distributed into three broad stages – Accept, Adapt and Achieve, wherein each step is explained in a comprehensive way with the help of chapters encompassing every aspect of a working woman’s life.
In this book, the author, Apurva Purohit, explains how women should accept, adapt and achieve their way to triumph. Through real-life stories, examples, and cheerful accounts, she provided small pieces of advice on multiple topics from the right attitude to getting it right with the kids, from office situations to household hardships, from building a reputation to pavings one's way to the top. This book gives an account of everything that would probably have happened or will happen in a working woman's life.
Writing Style
I really liked the way the author chose to narrate in the second person, it is like chatting over a hot cup of coffee. With simple and appropriate usage of words, this book enables the reader to flip through it easily, at the same time articulating and sowing the message deep into the reader's mind which is commendable.
The author pursued to not only amuse the reader but also to elucidate the importance of working while balancing home and that there's no need to sacrifice either thing. From the first page, she carried a sense of practicality throughout the book providing footnotes after every chapter and also at the end of each segment.
My Views
Revolving and juggling around personal and professional life there are many dilemmas encountered by women. This book can be labelled as a guide to working women, constructed with an impressive methodology to manage several kinds of people at work and home, and about how to work smoothly at both the ends. One can note that her primary aim is to make a woman realize that to steer an optimistic and fulfilling life it is important to efficiently maintain symmetry between home and work.
I truly enjoyed myself reading this book on top of it I learnt many important elements that will help me in most of the work-home situations.
I loved the way the author made an effort to invigorate women with empathising with fellow men, urging women to stand up for women's rights and advising women not to take undue advantage of the special benefits accrued to women on account of their gender.
There is a narrow line of humour throughout the novel, which will guarantee that the tiny smile lingering on your lips will remain there till the border of the book. The phrases like “women only get better with age”, or that “your male subordinates are wired differently, poor things” or tips on “training husbands” (you heard it right!) will keep you engaged and entertained.
⁃ You would pick this book if:
You are going through the dilemma of stabilizing work-home life.
You want to learn about the importance of individuality and self-esteem.
You want to learn some handy tips and tricks for problems in work and home.
To know that you are not alone in this battle
⁃ You wouldn't like pick this book if:
You are a man. Because this book primarily addresses women and provides tips for them.
You are an unmarried female. Because you wouldn't be able to directly relate to the book.
Author’s words of wisdom are truly impressive and the reader can grasp the abundant amount of knowledge through it. A woman can wholly connect herself to the short anecdotes in the book and can use the great remedies explained in the book for almost every complication faced by a woman in her routine.
All in all this book is an incredible and short read for women, I think we need to highlight the point- for women only. My personal experience with the book was particularly enlightening and I'd recommend this book to every woman who is aspiring to work.
A smart and brilliant book(guide) for working women, about the challenges they encounter as they endeavour to juggle work and home. This book is cheerful, amusing, practical and empathetic also, a must-read for every woman who is on the quest of balancing their work and home lives.
Read on to know more about this great book and about why I think you should most definitely give it a try!!
Now, this article is classified into four sections.
• Ratings and info about the book.
• The outline of the book.
• About the writing style.
• My views on the book.
Ratings and Info About the Book:
⁃ Title: Lady, you're not a man.
⁃ Author: Apurva Purohit
⁃ Rating:
↪ Botopsy rating: 5/5✨
↪ Goodreads: 3.9/5
↪ Amazon: 4.4/5
⁃ Length of the book: 185 pages long.
⁃ Genre: NonFiction/ Self-help.
⁃ First Published: 2013
⁃ Publisher: Rupa Publications.
⁃ Series: Standalone.
⁃ Format: Kindle edition.
⁃ Source: Amazon.
Outline
Today's woman yearns for perfect work and home equilibrium in her life and is reluctant to jeopardize either. But the challenges she confronts each day are more rigorous than the previous one, with meeting deadlines, child's responsibility, difficult bosses and lazy husbands(in some cases).
This book is distributed into three broad stages – Accept, Adapt and Achieve, wherein each step is explained in a comprehensive way with the help of chapters encompassing every aspect of a working woman’s life.
In this book, the author, Apurva Purohit, explains how women should accept, adapt and achieve their way to triumph. Through real-life stories, examples, and cheerful accounts, she provided small pieces of advice on multiple topics from the right attitude to getting it right with the kids, from office situations to household hardships, from building a reputation to pavings one's way to the top. This book gives an account of everything that would probably have happened or will happen in a working woman's life.
Writing Style
I really liked the way the author chose to narrate in the second person, it is like chatting over a hot cup of coffee. With simple and appropriate usage of words, this book enables the reader to flip through it easily, at the same time articulating and sowing the message deep into the reader's mind which is commendable.
The author pursued to not only amuse the reader but also to elucidate the importance of working while balancing home and that there's no need to sacrifice either thing. From the first page, she carried a sense of practicality throughout the book providing footnotes after every chapter and also at the end of each segment.
My Views
Revolving and juggling around personal and professional life there are many dilemmas encountered by women. This book can be labelled as a guide to working women, constructed with an impressive methodology to manage several kinds of people at work and home, and about how to work smoothly at both the ends. One can note that her primary aim is to make a woman realize that to steer an optimistic and fulfilling life it is important to efficiently maintain symmetry between home and work.
I truly enjoyed myself reading this book on top of it I learnt many important elements that will help me in most of the work-home situations.
I loved the way the author made an effort to invigorate women with empathising with fellow men, urging women to stand up for women's rights and advising women not to take undue advantage of the special benefits accrued to women on account of their gender.
There is a narrow line of humour throughout the novel, which will guarantee that the tiny smile lingering on your lips will remain there till the border of the book. The phrases like “women only get better with age”, or that “your male subordinates are wired differently, poor things” or tips on “training husbands” (you heard it right!) will keep you engaged and entertained.
⁃ You would pick this book if:
You are going through the dilemma of stabilizing work-home life.
You want to learn about the importance of individuality and self-esteem.
You want to learn some handy tips and tricks for problems in work and home.
To know that you are not alone in this battle
⁃ You wouldn't like pick this book if:
You are a man. Because this book primarily addresses women and provides tips for them.
You are an unmarried female. Because you wouldn't be able to directly relate to the book.
Author’s words of wisdom are truly impressive and the reader can grasp the abundant amount of knowledge through it. A woman can wholly connect herself to the short anecdotes in the book and can use the great remedies explained in the book for almost every complication faced by a woman in her routine.
All in all this book is an incredible and short read for women, I think we need to highlight the point- for women only. My personal experience with the book was particularly enlightening and I'd recommend this book to every woman who is aspiring to work.
September 17, 2022
I rarely give one star ratings to books because I respect authors for putting in so much time and effort into their work, but this was a no-brainer by the time I finished reading it.
In my quest for good Indian literature on women balancing personal and professional lives, I picked this up after reading the author's (then) impressive bio, thinking that I would find some interesting insights in contexts I could relate to as opposed to reading works by Western authors. However, this book was extremely problematic for the following reasons:
- The author doesn't seem to have a proper understanding of crucial concepts such as feminism, sensitivity, and the role of reservation for marginalised groups
- She generalises men a lot and is extremely unfair to them, making a lot of statements which made my blood boil even as a woman myself (I apologise to the decent men out there who may or may not have read this work; she is not representative of women as a whole, I assure you)
- She doesn't seem to understand the difference between special treatment and making everything a level-playing field when it comes to work environments
- She oscillates between sharing inane thoughts with very few sensible chapters in between
- She uses sophisticated words unnecessarily which also irked me to an extent
In short, I wouldn't recommend this to anyone. If you are looking for feministic perspectives on work-life balance and other issues faced by women, there are way better books out there. For now, my quest to find good books by Indian authors on this topic continues.
In my quest for good Indian literature on women balancing personal and professional lives, I picked this up after reading the author's (then) impressive bio, thinking that I would find some interesting insights in contexts I could relate to as opposed to reading works by Western authors. However, this book was extremely problematic for the following reasons:
- The author doesn't seem to have a proper understanding of crucial concepts such as feminism, sensitivity, and the role of reservation for marginalised groups
- She generalises men a lot and is extremely unfair to them, making a lot of statements which made my blood boil even as a woman myself (I apologise to the decent men out there who may or may not have read this work; she is not representative of women as a whole, I assure you)
- She doesn't seem to understand the difference between special treatment and making everything a level-playing field when it comes to work environments
- She oscillates between sharing inane thoughts with very few sensible chapters in between
- She uses sophisticated words unnecessarily which also irked me to an extent
In short, I wouldn't recommend this to anyone. If you are looking for feministic perspectives on work-life balance and other issues faced by women, there are way better books out there. For now, my quest to find good books by Indian authors on this topic continues.
December 14, 2018
The book is not bad. But, I guess I don't have it in me to take so much preaching. The author presenting her life as an example of perfection irritated me a bit.
Also, there was some stereotyping there when she said that (all?) men have huge egos and are incapable of taking instructions. Her advice was to let them think that they are doing what you want, out of their own volition. I think it was quite unnecessary and rather stupid. We women don't need to put up with such nonsense.
Most of her other points were valid. And she came across as unbiased in general.
Also, there was some stereotyping there when she said that (all?) men have huge egos and are incapable of taking instructions. Her advice was to let them think that they are doing what you want, out of their own volition. I think it was quite unnecessary and rather stupid. We women don't need to put up with such nonsense.
Most of her other points were valid. And she came across as unbiased in general.
November 23, 2017
The tagline and contents of the book are totally misleading.Except for a couple of chapters,which talks about women in the corporate world,most of it is comparision of the two genders.
August 27, 2013
If some women out there don't feel motivated or have lost that spark in themselves with time then this is the book for you.
It'll guide you well and clear out all the dark skies to give a ray of hope towards a positive future. :)
It has been penned down to perfection and there's a lot for working women to read and look forward to in the book.
Men might learn a few things too from the book. But it ain't about the gender.
The message is simple and pretty much loud and clear.
It's not the end of the road. Pick up from where you left off and life will guide you in the right direction. Be prepared for obstacles and once you overcome all the odds life will be merrier and prettier again. :)
Excellent motivational book to be read and enjoyed.
It'll guide you well and clear out all the dark skies to give a ray of hope towards a positive future. :)
It has been penned down to perfection and there's a lot for working women to read and look forward to in the book.
Men might learn a few things too from the book. But it ain't about the gender.
The message is simple and pretty much loud and clear.
It's not the end of the road. Pick up from where you left off and life will guide you in the right direction. Be prepared for obstacles and once you overcome all the odds life will be merrier and prettier again. :)
Excellent motivational book to be read and enjoyed.
October 3, 2013
The book is an amazing piece of work ! With a slight subtle way of delivering humor this book will capture you till the very end.When i was reading the book i felt different .. different in a nice way :)...it was like a check list for me to understand what i learnt and what I did not. After all life is journey and this book will just let you see it the way it is - simple. Its always nice to hear your own giggles when you read a perfectly written book right? For those giggles and much more - just buy the book :)
February 11, 2019
This book has been written in a peppy manner. Great read for working women professionals. The key takeaway for me from this book is "Acceptance". Any change begins with acceptance. Acceptance of one's own limitations, like being guilty comes along as a part of the territory of being a woman. We just need to ensure which guilt are we more comfortable with. Post acceptance, comes adapting . Adapting to the best of current environmental needs. It is followed by Achievement.
Few highlights I like from this book are:
1. Be confident in your femininity. Do not apologize for being a woman and accept yourself as you are.
2. Life in indeed unfair but it is pretty democratic in its unfairness. In some way or the other, life will be unfair to everyone.
3. We should stop playing the roles of Suffering Sitas. Suffering is no longer seen as noble, it is deemed downright impractical and foolish.
Few highlights I like from this book are:
1. Be confident in your femininity. Do not apologize for being a woman and accept yourself as you are.
2. Life in indeed unfair but it is pretty democratic in its unfairness. In some way or the other, life will be unfair to everyone.
3. We should stop playing the roles of Suffering Sitas. Suffering is no longer seen as noble, it is deemed downright impractical and foolish.
July 30, 2018
Short Take: Quick, effective read! Particularly for aspiring career women in India! ;)
Complete take at:
https://ibookreads.blogspot.com/2018/...
Complete take at:
https://ibookreads.blogspot.com/2018/...
September 6, 2017
A book all working women must read. Many a times we feel that the guilt we are going through is just with us and knowing that all women have to go through it makes things acceptable.
A great book for educated but non working women to come out for stereotype way of thinking and get to move the things.
A book to be read by men to understand female's juggling while handling home and office.
All in all a great book for all.
A great book for educated but non working women to come out for stereotype way of thinking and get to move the things.
A book to be read by men to understand female's juggling while handling home and office.
All in all a great book for all.
February 20, 2021
I'm so glad I read this book - feel so empowered and grateful for the fact that I can go to work and how to navigate the world of work with a backdrop of being a woman in a man's world.
July 20, 2018
It's easy to be overwhelmed for women who work to earn and try to manage the home front. This book assists you to get your priorities right again... Look at same things differently and remember there is a way. I found this worth the read.
February 6, 2017
Practical, witty and empathetic towards both genders. The author has presented a very unbiased perspective on the issues faced by both men and women when working together, the not-so-subtle differences in thought process of both genders, and how to deal with them without any hysteria.
October 18, 2023
This book relates with you on so many levels as an Indian, it is hilarious and speaks something I have been longing to hear.
There are differences between men and women and we have to accept that, adapt to the new situation, and achieve what we actually want to achieve 🤗
There are differences between men and women and we have to accept that, adapt to the new situation, and achieve what we actually want to achieve 🤗
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2020
While the author Apurva Purohit tries to motivate women to pursue their careers aggressively and not give up easily, there were a lot of problematic parts.
There was an entire chapter on 'husband training': if that doesn't sound offensive, imagine a chapter titled 'wife training'. There were a lot of stereotypes, such as women are good in taking instructions and women are multi-taskers while men are lazy, difficult, and self absorbed. There was a chapter that talks about how to deal with male subordinates, explaining that women bosses should try to nudge them carefully into doing work instead of being straight forward with them, as if men are some babies who who can only work when they are handed work in the same way babies are made to eat food by swooshing it around as an airplane. Throughout the read all my energy went into calming myself down.
I won't skip the good parts though. I could as well relate to a lot of incidents that the author describes, even though the solutions were not discussed in detail. I liked how the author is deeply attached to her career and persuades all the women to not give up on their career for the sake of family. Also, it imaprts hope to all working middle class women to not give up on the men in the house and raise their sons and daughters in a gender-equal home. It is, afterall possible to go all the way to the top as well as have a wonderful family.
There was an entire chapter on 'husband training': if that doesn't sound offensive, imagine a chapter titled 'wife training'. There were a lot of stereotypes, such as women are good in taking instructions and women are multi-taskers while men are lazy, difficult, and self absorbed. There was a chapter that talks about how to deal with male subordinates, explaining that women bosses should try to nudge them carefully into doing work instead of being straight forward with them, as if men are some babies who who can only work when they are handed work in the same way babies are made to eat food by swooshing it around as an airplane. Throughout the read all my energy went into calming myself down.
I won't skip the good parts though. I could as well relate to a lot of incidents that the author describes, even though the solutions were not discussed in detail. I liked how the author is deeply attached to her career and persuades all the women to not give up on their career for the sake of family. Also, it imaprts hope to all working middle class women to not give up on the men in the house and raise their sons and daughters in a gender-equal home. It is, afterall possible to go all the way to the top as well as have a wonderful family.
June 28, 2020
This book is hilarious in parts, and down right true. Every word in the book resonates with you.
November 7, 2016
Very well written! I could totally relate this book to my mother and hence I loved how correctly it depicted the life and the thought process of a working woman who's got a lot on her plate. A very good self help book.
December 30, 2020
A must read book for all the ladies out there, who aspire to fulfill their dreams , breaking barriers, tackling the odds, untangling the relationships, and trying to own it right.
The book that doesn't fail in boosting one's morale.
The book that doesn't fail in boosting one's morale.
October 16, 2015
Nice!! A must read for working woman. Some really useful and practical messages have been presented in a simple, clear and funny manner
October 16, 2025
It began with a chuckle. A friend had once told me, “Women don’t juggle—they perform a circus act with grace.” I didn’t quite get it until I read Lady, You’re Not a Man! by Apoorva Purohit. Somewhere between her witty anecdotes about lazy husbands, sulky interns, and those sacred office coffee breaks that save one’s sanity, I found myself nodding, smiling, and occasionally sighing at the mirror she held up — not just to women, but to the world that expects them to be superheroes in sarees and suits alike.
Apoorva Purohit, the CEO of Radio City 91.1 FM, isn’t merely a business leader writing a self-help manual. She’s a storyteller disguised as a strategist. She doesn’t preach; she confides. Her book reads like a long, heartfelt conversation with that one wise friend who tells you the truth with a wink and a nudge. Through three broad sections — Accept, Adapt, and Achieve — she explores the rollercoaster that is a woman’s professional and personal life, weaving in her own corporate escapades and sharp, self-aware humor.
The premise is deceptively simple. Today’s woman, she argues, doesn’t want to choose between boardrooms and bedrooms, between ambition and affection. She wants both — and why shouldn’t she? But this “have it all” ideal comes with its own paradoxes. Apoorva’s genius lies in showing that balance isn’t a tightrope; it’s a dance. You sway, stumble, sometimes spin, but the rhythm is yours to create.
Her writing style is what makes this book a delight. Conversational yet crisp, it feels as if she’s sitting across from you with a cappuccino, rolling her eyes at yet another “mansplaining” episode, and reminding you to laugh before you lose your cool. She writes in the second person — a rare, intimate choice — and it works beautifully. You’re not just reading about someone’s experiences; you’re part of them. Her humour sparkles, her insights cut through the noise, and her tone carries that blend of empathy and authority only someone who has truly “been there” can achieve.
What I found most refreshing was her honesty about the small, unglamorous battles — the late-night guilt trips, the networking fatigue, the double standards that lurk in even the most progressive offices. Her chapters about “training husbands” and “managing male subordinates” could’ve easily turned into clichés, but she sidesteps that trap with elegance. Her wit is never caustic; it’s compassionate. She doesn’t mock — she understands.
Some sections, particularly in Adapt, veer slightly toward the instructive, but even then, there’s warmth in her words. She calls out women who misuse privileges or play the victim card, but not with judgment — with the gentleness of someone who genuinely wants her reader to grow. Her message isn’t just about breaking glass ceilings; it’s about cleaning up the shards so others can walk through without bleeding.
There’s a moment that stayed with me — her reflection on why women approaching forty often feel the pressure to appear younger, to “compete” with their own past selves. Apoorva quips that every age has its own beauty, its own flavor, and that chasing youth is like reheating yesterday’s coffee — you lose both warmth and taste. It’s such a simple thought, yet so liberating.
As I turned the last page, I realized this wasn’t just a book — it was a mirror, a toolkit, and a friend. It reminded me of all the incredible women I’ve seen navigating chaos with calm, blending grace with grit. And it reminded me of the men who could stand to read this too — not to “understand women” (as if that’s a solvable puzzle) but to appreciate the unseen labor, emotional and otherwise, that goes into every success story.
Lady, You’re Not a Man! isn’t merely a guidebook for working women; it’s a manifesto for balance — witty, wise, and wonderfully real. If you’ve ever found yourself spinning between ambition and expectation, this book won’t just make you laugh — it’ll make you pause, reflect, and perhaps, forgive yourself for not being perfect. Because as Apoorva gently reminds us, you don’t have to be “a man” to succeed — you just have to be fully, fearlessly, and unapologetically you.
☕ Pick this one up, ladies (and curious gentlemen). It’s not just a read — it’s a conversation you’ll want to keep going.
April 2, 2020
I feel that this book is a must read for each and every woman. The author described the ventures of women in a very frank and a practical manner. The book reveals the startling realities related to a woman’s life. A woman life basically revolves around her career & her married life. Through simple short stories the author is capable in giving some of the most overwhelming tips to handle any kind of situation that occurs in a woman’s day to day life either at home or at office. The fundamental aim of author is to make a woman realize that to lead a happy & a fulfilling life it is important to efficiently maintain a balance between home & work.
The author narrated real life instances to make it very clear that there’s no need to sacrifice your talent & brilliance for your marriage but rather a woman can be a multitask manager with an extensive support provided by her family. The author emphasized on the three extremely major points for a woman to lead a contented & a peaceful life namely acceptance , adaptation & achievement.
I loved the way how the author is successful in imparting immense knowledge of work-life balance with an amazing simplicity. A woman can entirely relate herself to the short tales in the book. The book consists of great remedies for each complication faced by a woman in her routine.
This book is certainly capable to make a woman realize the worth of herself, her career, her individuality & her confidence. At the same time, the author described about the fundamentals of marriage & an utter significance to compromise & work with a well planned strategy at home which makes you an efficient home-maker. This book can be called as a guide which is composed of impressive methodology to manage several kind of people at work & home , & how to work smoothly at both the ends.
I am truly inspired & this book exerted a great influence in my life. While reading this book, I realized that it is like a set of tools to succeed professionally & personally. I came to know about the most astonishing facts which are part of a woman’s life. As a student, it really helped me to understand how things work at office & at home. It answered all my untold questions which was incredible.
Through hilarity & simplicity the author depicted some of the supreme issues of a woman’s life which is commendable. I liked the plausible explanation of author. The author indeed deserves a huge amount of appreciation for describing various things in such an exceedingly simple yet effective manner. I became fully aware of particular things which can be resolved through a very pragmatic approach.
Author’s words of wisdom are truly impressive & one can grasp abundant amount of knowledge through it. It cleared my confusion & bewilderment about certain things. At present, I am more serene & self assured. I am well informed about diverse issues & situations related to a woman’s life for which I am set .My personal experience with the book was very enlightening.
The author narrated real life instances to make it very clear that there’s no need to sacrifice your talent & brilliance for your marriage but rather a woman can be a multitask manager with an extensive support provided by her family. The author emphasized on the three extremely major points for a woman to lead a contented & a peaceful life namely acceptance , adaptation & achievement.
I loved the way how the author is successful in imparting immense knowledge of work-life balance with an amazing simplicity. A woman can entirely relate herself to the short tales in the book. The book consists of great remedies for each complication faced by a woman in her routine.
This book is certainly capable to make a woman realize the worth of herself, her career, her individuality & her confidence. At the same time, the author described about the fundamentals of marriage & an utter significance to compromise & work with a well planned strategy at home which makes you an efficient home-maker. This book can be called as a guide which is composed of impressive methodology to manage several kind of people at work & home , & how to work smoothly at both the ends.
I am truly inspired & this book exerted a great influence in my life. While reading this book, I realized that it is like a set of tools to succeed professionally & personally. I came to know about the most astonishing facts which are part of a woman’s life. As a student, it really helped me to understand how things work at office & at home. It answered all my untold questions which was incredible.
Through hilarity & simplicity the author depicted some of the supreme issues of a woman’s life which is commendable. I liked the plausible explanation of author. The author indeed deserves a huge amount of appreciation for describing various things in such an exceedingly simple yet effective manner. I became fully aware of particular things which can be resolved through a very pragmatic approach.
Author’s words of wisdom are truly impressive & one can grasp abundant amount of knowledge through it. It cleared my confusion & bewilderment about certain things. At present, I am more serene & self assured. I am well informed about diverse issues & situations related to a woman’s life for which I am set .My personal experience with the book was very enlightening.
January 6, 2020
This is a commendable book. Every chapter is well woven with examples where any woman can relate those things in their day to day life and would definitely gain motivation from those.
This book gives you all the ingredients required for an inspirational and at the same time the moral values you need to have and follow to grow in your career. You would just be glad for reading this one. By giving this a read, most of the women who are at very low times or having a guilt in their career whether it be their office/home will definitely realise that we ourselves have taken our lives towards a self-inflicted failure, pushed into that direction only by our own mindset. This book is narrated in a non controversial way in support of every lady out there working and struggling with their daily means..say it, a house wife, an employee, to-be bride or the unmarried who is facing difficulty in dealing with the number of questions from her relatives and other common problems which we encounter in a women's lives.
Few points will really make sense who have a misconception on their mother in laws, on another woman in their office/neighbour. Even a man can have a good idea from this how the women does multi-tasking everyday and the author neatly explains multi - tasking as our asset and how women can do and think about multiple things at a time . And one can realise that hardworking is a non - negotiable factor for to succeed.
Points which I got inspired from and to be remembered:
▪️ It is our own negativity that prevents us from trying to overcome the challenges in front of us.
▪️In a choice between skill & great attitude, attitude always wins.
▪️ Running away from hard-work is running from success.
▪️Being able to prioritise what is important and what is not is an important skill for success.
Later reading this book, I started adoring Apurva Purohit because I was greatly impressed by the way she bought the very sensitive and small issues which usually goes wrong in our daily routine to light.
This book gives you all the ingredients required for an inspirational and at the same time the moral values you need to have and follow to grow in your career. You would just be glad for reading this one. By giving this a read, most of the women who are at very low times or having a guilt in their career whether it be their office/home will definitely realise that we ourselves have taken our lives towards a self-inflicted failure, pushed into that direction only by our own mindset. This book is narrated in a non controversial way in support of every lady out there working and struggling with their daily means..say it, a house wife, an employee, to-be bride or the unmarried who is facing difficulty in dealing with the number of questions from her relatives and other common problems which we encounter in a women's lives.
Few points will really make sense who have a misconception on their mother in laws, on another woman in their office/neighbour. Even a man can have a good idea from this how the women does multi-tasking everyday and the author neatly explains multi - tasking as our asset and how women can do and think about multiple things at a time . And one can realise that hardworking is a non - negotiable factor for to succeed.
Points which I got inspired from and to be remembered:
▪️ It is our own negativity that prevents us from trying to overcome the challenges in front of us.
▪️In a choice between skill & great attitude, attitude always wins.
▪️ Running away from hard-work is running from success.
▪️Being able to prioritise what is important and what is not is an important skill for success.
Later reading this book, I started adoring Apurva Purohit because I was greatly impressed by the way she bought the very sensitive and small issues which usually goes wrong in our daily routine to light.
November 28, 2018
I took some time to read this highly insightful and entertaining book written by Apurva Purohit.
I realized that my friend who had initially suggested it to me was damn right about it. She had waved it in front of my uppity nose and swore her cat's ass about its ability to elicit laughs.
Elicit laughs, it surely did. It also struck a cord and kept me hooked till the end.
The core idea is that women at the workplace tend to behave like their male counterparts and somewhere miss out on benefiting from the advantages that Nature has kindly bestowed on us. Certain skills like empathy and compassion, unparalleled soft skills, can be gained and used to perfection by women, much better than men.
The book is divided into interesting chapters called: Acceptance, Adapting, and Achievement. Each chapter has tips called Ten Lessons. The chapters are laid out in a way that makes it very easy to assimilate and enjoy.
The book keeps circling back to the core idea of women staying true to their natural genders and not metamorphose into men just to climb the corporate ladder or to get that coveted promotion.
Lady, You're Not a Man! is a book that is a must read for all women slogging in their corporate jobs, spending their productive years in front of a computer.
My personal takeaway has been this: Prioritize tasks or decentralize, ask for help when you need.
There were some instances which didn't go down well with me.
Rating: 4/5
I realized that my friend who had initially suggested it to me was damn right about it. She had waved it in front of my uppity nose and swore her cat's ass about its ability to elicit laughs.
Elicit laughs, it surely did. It also struck a cord and kept me hooked till the end.
The core idea is that women at the workplace tend to behave like their male counterparts and somewhere miss out on benefiting from the advantages that Nature has kindly bestowed on us. Certain skills like empathy and compassion, unparalleled soft skills, can be gained and used to perfection by women, much better than men.
The book is divided into interesting chapters called: Acceptance, Adapting, and Achievement. Each chapter has tips called Ten Lessons. The chapters are laid out in a way that makes it very easy to assimilate and enjoy.
The book keeps circling back to the core idea of women staying true to their natural genders and not metamorphose into men just to climb the corporate ladder or to get that coveted promotion.
Lady, You're Not a Man! is a book that is a must read for all women slogging in their corporate jobs, spending their productive years in front of a computer.
My personal takeaway has been this: Prioritize tasks or decentralize, ask for help when you need.
There were some instances which didn't go down well with me.
Rating: 4/5
March 8, 2025
Not the best today, but it might've been a dacade ago..maybe
I rated it 2 stars because the book is solely based on the author's personal opinions of whatever "once" happened with her and lacks research a big deal!
I read this book for research purposes. The life has changed a lot today. Although, a few things might still be a little same-like the suffering sita syndrome. I have seen many women do that but for the rest of it, it felt like some aunty has written this book. And she contradicted herself a lot. for instance, don't wanna go much into details but, once she advises women to go next time and stand at the bar where all the men are instead of sitting on the sofa and talking about shopping. Literally contradicting the title itself. Like why do you wanna be someone you're not? I mean girl! Oh wait, woman!(She doesn't like to be called a girl), people can sit on a sofa, and still talk business and other important stuff, not to mention, discussing shopping isn't a sin either. And if men wanna be a part of group, heck they'll come and sit on the sofa with us. The same thing when she talks about having male and female juniors- that only males are capable of having a counter argument when you give them a task, and the women will just accept it because apparently men are born to lead and women are usually a yes mam types. This is so stupid! Anyone who "understands" their field or have even a little bit of corousity will do so...like wtf!?
I rated it 2 stars because the book is solely based on the author's personal opinions of whatever "once" happened with her and lacks research a big deal!
I read this book for research purposes. The life has changed a lot today. Although, a few things might still be a little same-like the suffering sita syndrome. I have seen many women do that but for the rest of it, it felt like some aunty has written this book. And she contradicted herself a lot. for instance, don't wanna go much into details but, once she advises women to go next time and stand at the bar where all the men are instead of sitting on the sofa and talking about shopping. Literally contradicting the title itself. Like why do you wanna be someone you're not? I mean girl! Oh wait, woman!(She doesn't like to be called a girl), people can sit on a sofa, and still talk business and other important stuff, not to mention, discussing shopping isn't a sin either. And if men wanna be a part of group, heck they'll come and sit on the sofa with us. The same thing when she talks about having male and female juniors- that only males are capable of having a counter argument when you give them a task, and the women will just accept it because apparently men are born to lead and women are usually a yes mam types. This is so stupid! Anyone who "understands" their field or have even a little bit of corousity will do so...like wtf!?
August 12, 2021
Apurva Purohit goes into numerous nuances of what it means to be a woman, especially a working woman in today's India. It's indeed an interesting read. This book is a must read for most women in India. The book's title should not dissuade men from reading this for I found many perspectives useful for a synergistic co-existence of both genders.
A book like this one can easily become prescriptive and by extension a boring read. Apurva Purohit prevents this by weaving stories across different stages of her life to ultimately reach her conclusions. Despite being a self-proclaimed feminist, Apurva Purohit takes a moderate view, not succumbing to either the extremes on the role, stature and characteristics of men and women in India. There are however, a few sweeping statements that attempt to paint the whole society with a single brush stroke, whereas, each person(gender neutrality intentional) comes with their own strengths, weakness and behavior patterns.
A book like this one can easily become prescriptive and by extension a boring read. Apurva Purohit prevents this by weaving stories across different stages of her life to ultimately reach her conclusions. Despite being a self-proclaimed feminist, Apurva Purohit takes a moderate view, not succumbing to either the extremes on the role, stature and characteristics of men and women in India. There are however, a few sweeping statements that attempt to paint the whole society with a single brush stroke, whereas, each person(gender neutrality intentional) comes with their own strengths, weakness and behavior patterns.
October 1, 2018
Easy, breezy without being preachy or queasy
I feel the book is an essential handbook for all the women who are trying to find their way through the corporate bylanes. Their are some really relevant sections on how to juggle work and family effectively without going on a guilt trip and maintaing your sanity.
I selected the book mainly because of it's catchy title , but I was hooked from the word go. It's contents are quite relevant in the current scenario. I liked the fact that this book addressed several important issues being faced by women in daily life without sounding overtly self important.
However, the content is mostly addressed to women in private sector job and the government sector work culture and biases have not been touched upon at all, as the writer primarily dips into the rich reservoirs of her own experience. Further, I would have loved to read a bit more about the single women in workplace.
Overall it's a fun ride with author and her quirky sense of humour. So glad I am not a man...😊😊
I feel the book is an essential handbook for all the women who are trying to find their way through the corporate bylanes. Their are some really relevant sections on how to juggle work and family effectively without going on a guilt trip and maintaing your sanity.
I selected the book mainly because of it's catchy title , but I was hooked from the word go. It's contents are quite relevant in the current scenario. I liked the fact that this book addressed several important issues being faced by women in daily life without sounding overtly self important.
However, the content is mostly addressed to women in private sector job and the government sector work culture and biases have not been touched upon at all, as the writer primarily dips into the rich reservoirs of her own experience. Further, I would have loved to read a bit more about the single women in workplace.
Overall it's a fun ride with author and her quirky sense of humour. So glad I am not a man...😊😊
December 31, 2021
This is a very simple read but a must read for all men and working women and mother out there. I had heard a lot about this book and hence have started it and I was startled by the way Apurva illustrated the known and true facts about men. The book contains many situations that we as working women face every time in life and the way she has portrayed the concept that you are not unique everybody faces all this has made our struggle bit easier. The writing style is highly relatable with tons of humour added. Great learnings, especially for women and filled with fun office anecdotes that will make you think of similar incidents or people at work.One of the best features of this book is it can help the reader develop some empathy and will help in dealing with real life situations more calmly and maturely. I strongly recommend it to both women and men! It will lessen down the number of fights between husband wife and Women and their MILs
April 15, 2022
Read this book in one go. It took me 2.5 hours to read the entire book. If you are a feminist and an advocate of gender equality skip this book as the book focuses on the fact that Women are different from men and how they can use this difference to their own benefit.
Good things about the book-
1. Excellent compilation of thoughts. After each chapter there is a summary or conclusion highlighting the essence of the chapter
2. Very easy read. No need to open dictionary for meaning of difficult words or wikipedia for confirming the facts. The book is a simple read through.
Things that could be improved-
1. The examples are far from the real life and can’t be connected with. Irrelevant examples in most of the chapters.
2. No proofreading before publishing the book. There are so many grammatical/ factual errors in the book.
A good one time read. Please go through my notes/ highlights. I tried to capture the essence of the book in it.
Good things about the book-
1. Excellent compilation of thoughts. After each chapter there is a summary or conclusion highlighting the essence of the chapter
2. Very easy read. No need to open dictionary for meaning of difficult words or wikipedia for confirming the facts. The book is a simple read through.
Things that could be improved-
1. The examples are far from the real life and can’t be connected with. Irrelevant examples in most of the chapters.
2. No proofreading before publishing the book. There are so many grammatical/ factual errors in the book.
A good one time read. Please go through my notes/ highlights. I tried to capture the essence of the book in it.
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