Girl, Arise!: A Catholic Feminist's Invitation to Live Boldly, Love Your Faith, and Change the World

by Claire Swinarski

Winner of a 2020 Catholic Press Association book award (second place, gender issues-inclusion in the Church).


Is it possible to be both a Catholic and a feminist? Claire Swinarski, writer and creator of The Catholic Feminist podcast, believes it is: “I’m a feminist for the same reason I’m bold and honest and sometimes ragey: because Jesus was all of those things.”

In Girl, Arise!, Swinarski reconciles the two identities by demonstrating the strength and abilities women have to share with the Body of Christ, the importance of women throughout the history of the faith, and how the love you experience through Christ and the Church can change you and the world around you.

In Girl, Arise!:A Catholic Feminist’s Invitation to Live Boldly, Love Your Faith, and Change the World Swinarski points out that while both “feminism” and “Catholicism” can mean different things to different people, both feminists and Catholics desire to make the world a better, fairer place. And she shows that by treating women with dignity equal to that of men—by calling them his friends and teaching them—Jesus acted as a feminist as well.

With humor and sass, Swinarski addresses her frustration with the traditional concerns churches ascribe to women, as shown by the many talks directed at women focused on marriage and modesty rather than social justice. But she pinpoints the areas where modern feminism goes too far, arguing against abortion and exploring what it means to serve others rather than focus on our own needs first.

Swinarski also tells the stories of holy women—including Vashti in the book of Esther, Sts. Thérèse of Lisieux and Joan of Arc, Mary Magdalene, and the Blessed Virgin Mary—to show how their faith influenced their actions, even when those actions went against traditional norms and roles of women.

You will be empowered to embrace your God-given abilities as you follow the women who have gone before you in faith who—by announcing Christ to his disciples, believing in God’s promises, and being faithful in hardship—changed the world.

Genres: Catholic, Nonfiction, Faith, Religion, Spirituality, Christian, Christianity

128 pages, Paperback

First published February 8, 2019

About the author

Claire Swinarski is the author of multiple books for both kids and adults. Her writing has been featured in The Washington Post, Seventeen, Milwaukee Magazine, and many other publications. She lives in small town Wisconsin with her husband and three kids, where she writes books, wears babies, and wrangles bread dough. You can follow her on Instagram @claireswinarski.

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not recommend this book highly enough. At approximately 100 pages it’s a quick read, but that doesn’t mean it lacks content. Claire puts into words everything that has been on my mind and in my heart for quite some time. Love Jesus and love your neighbor. Ask the Holy Spirit what that means for you at whatever stage of life you are in at this current moment because not doing anything is not an option.

[Maureen · Rating 2 out of 5]

There just isn’t much in here. Yes, it can be seen as a contradiction to be a Catholic and a feminist but some of these points could be made in a blog post and not repeated for over 100 pages.

Maybe I’m a bit older than her intended audience. Sometimes this felt juvenile to me. And her repetition of “for the love” got on my nerves.

Some good points are made (loving your neighbor, caring for everyone) but these could be made in a few pages.

[Emma Smith · Rating 2 out of 5]

With all due respect, I found that the author depended almost entirely on anecdotal evidence and strawmen to sustain her premise that the Church needs feminism because women who do not fit the “married with ten children and homeschooling” mold have been left out of the conversation. The problem is her premise is totally false. Her desire to inspire is noteworthy, and she makes some good points about serving and loving others, but overall she seems completely misguided and clueless about the deep-rooted issues actually plaguing the Church. Swinarksi loves to talk about feminism, but never talks about femininity or the role of male and female. Dismissive and arrogant and unreceptive to criticism, Swinarski could have used a better editor to remove the repetitive and demeaning phrases (like the pearl-clutching one). Ultimately, this book won’t be going down in history as a spiritual classic. Do yourself a favor and read Carrie Gress’s latest book instead if you want something fresh and timely.

[Anne Farrington · Rating 1 out of 5]

Our church book club selected this book because we thought it would provide interesting insight into “catholic feminism” and ideas on how to become more involved in the church. There were a few chapters and points that were of merit, but much of the book seemed fraught with generalizations and statements that I felt were not representative of current reality (or at least not my reality). For such a young woman, the author seems to convey the feeling that women are still considered second class citizens with minor roles, and have to fight to be heard. While there is obviously still room for improvement, the thought that women’s church roles are focused on things like just baking and making sure their skirts are the right length seems absurd to me (and to the other members of our club). There are some valid points about how to share your particular gifts, how to get more involved and care for others, but overall this made me feel like the author was writing about a period 40 years ago. It’s a short and easy read, but I can’t recommend that it’s worth the time spent.

[Morgan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This whole book is a conversation with Claire which I love. While not every chapter hit home for me, this book has opened my heart to ways I want to strive to be a Catholic feminist. It’s spoken to my individualism and also to the way I’ve boxed myself in.

[Jaclyn Ekhoff · Rating 1 out of 5]

It’s not contradictory at all to be a Catholic and a Feminist. But Claire is not that at all. I read this with hope. But I also read it and followed the author on Instagram in the wake of George Floyd’s murder. And as the months went on...whew...I had to unfollow her and reflect on this book as pretty much a huge lie for a publishing deal. Catholic literally means “universal” - and to be a feminist means wanting equality for all (women to have the same opportunities as men, yes), helping elevate voices of women who go unheard, and also - as women - celebrating each other even if the accomplishments or goals of one woman is different than our own. Claire exhibits none of this in her life on Instagram. So who is the real Claire? The one in the book (which was honestly maybe a 2.5 star book)? Or the person on social media? Regardless, I will probably never read anything by her again or suggest this to any of my fellow Catholic sisters. Holding out hope that there is a real Catholic feminist out there who can speak to the masses without demonstrating judgement, flippancy, or completely backwards thinking.

[Jeannette · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this book, Swinarski discusses the way Catholicism and feminism overlap, from their calls to treat all with justice and dignity to their promotion of action to do this. She includes stories of strong women in Church history, from the Bible to the saints. It's not a long book, but it is full of encouragement, a bit of sass, and a few interesting statistics and facts. Coming from the background and community that I do, I didn't really find much new here, but I liked the call to action and reminder to look for ways to serve your community.

[Faith Elizabeth Hough · Rating 4 out of 5]

Claire Swinarski writes like a hard-hitting, no-nonsense, but very bubbly cheerleader. While that voice isn't really my cup of tea (honestly, I felt so OLD at 32 while reading this), I think it's a very needed voice in the Catholic Church, in the world of feminism, and in the world as a whole! She writes powerfully of the need for standing up for women, loving ourselves and others, and fulfilling our mission to serve the world, while gracefully acknowledging that such service is going to look different for everyone. I particularly appreciated her section on being a pro-life feminist, which offered some concrete challenges to those on either side of the debate. (Abortion is a symptom of a problem--a grievous lack of respect and help for women--not the solution...but similarly, an end to that symptom still won't solve the problem, so pro-life activists must challenge themselves to help women much, much more.)
Altogether, GIRL, ARISE was powerful, thoughtful, and honest, and I'd definitely recommend it to anyone who likes a good dose of sass with their inspirational reads. 😄

[Jill · Rating 3 out of 5]

While it has some excellent moments, this book is really directed at much younger women than myself. The writer seems to be very judgmental about certain choices. In her enthusiasm to embrace those who are questioning their place in the church, she is quick to exclude those who are comfortable serving on boards as well as (gasp!) bringing casseroles for the women’s luncheons. She strongly implies that you can’t veil and be feminist or have traditional preferences for liturgy while also caring about social injustice. Simultaneously, she suggests that women shouldn’t be pigeonholed and that there many ways to be holy. I found this rather off putting and inconsistent, but admit I am probably not the target audience. I will share this with some of my younger friends (teens and early twenties) who may find her point of view more relatable, but wouldn’t recommend it to the more mature ladies.

[Natalie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wasn't familiar with the author's popular podcast prior to reading this book, and so I went into reading it with higher expectations than were fair. If you're over 30 or have explored intersectional feminism (even the bare basics), you're likely going to feel frustrated with a dozen elements, among them: the lack of actual critique of the Catholic Church and the failure to include white privilege as a major player in why women with the most power to change things, simply, don't.

This said, I'm happy this book exists, and I hope Catholic teens and college students will read it, and it can be a jumping off point to even more growth and depth and change mentioned in these brief pages. The author ultimately succeeds in what she set out to do; she offers an invitation to conversation about issues that are easier left unexamined for the bulk of white, cradle Catholic millennials.

[Librarian Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not only a beautiful explanation of what feminism is and should look like within the Church but also a call to those who read it to stand up and BE Catholic Feminists. Claire doesn't mince words here, she admits that everyone has their place in the church and their role to play but she criticizes the way the Church and the people of the world have put women into boxes. If you must be a "good Catholic woman" you have to be quiet and meek and have 6.5 kids all impeccably dressed and behaved. If you must be a feminist then you have to be a pro-abortion man hater. But being a woman, a Catholic, and a feminist is SO much more than that. This book should be read by everyone, in every walk and season of life

[Valerie Kollar · Rating 2 out of 5]

I fully agree that you can be a Catholic feminist, even though that seems like an oxymoron; but this woman has no idea what true femininity is, and she makes me ashamed for those of us who do believe in the existence of Catholic Feminists, because her understanding of what one looks like is entirely skewed, and she is honestly just describing your average non-Catholic feminist. For those interested to see what a real Catholic feminist looks like, might I suggest “The Awakening of Miss Prim” by Natalia Sanmartin Fenollera. And for a general re-education on what it is to be a woman in general, I recommend “The Nature, Dignity, and Mission of Woman” by Karl Stehlin and “The Eternal Woman: The timeless meaning of the feminine” by Gertrude von le Fort.

[Lisa Kendzior · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very encouraging and empowering read. By sharing her own struggles with faith and femininity, Claire shows a way to embrace our Catholic faith and boldly live it out. Would recommend for any young woman who wants to grow but isn't always sure how to dig her way through the different opinions one sees online. After reading, I feel empowered to find my own path and stop listening to what others say I should be but listen to who God says I am.

[Kelly G · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book. It’s a quick read, but full of important thought provoking questions and ideas for a Catholic woman who wants to live out her faith in a confused and messed up world. Claire’s writing style made me feel like I was hanging out and chatting with a smart, loving, energetic friend. I love her podcast, and hopes she writes more in the future!

[Leah · Rating 1 out of 5]

Gave up on this one about halfway through. The author didn't seem to have much to say other than 'Hey, homegirl, Catholicism is, like, totally cool now!". The only chapter with any substance was the one about abortion, which itself I didn't think much of. There are some decent defenses for the pro-life movement, and this book has none of them.

[M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maybe I'm also out of the age range for the intended audience, again, girls in their late teens and early adulthood seem to be the public this is aimed at. And also because Claire Swinarski comes from a pretty liberal background and it shows (but she's pro-life, something it gained her many jabs at, and a good piece at Vox that you should check out). Her style is conversational and sometimes a bit juvenile ("Myriam was a rockstar").

This is not academic, it never intended to be, it reads like blog posts, because after all she was a podcaster. This is your classic "St. John Paul II was the most feminist pope we ever had" (probably true), and "it's OK if you struggle as long as you're open to an answer, even if it is not what you wanted to hear", it's more aimed at convincing liberals like she was that maybe indignation doesn't always mean you're right, and I think it's something a lot of people need to hear nowadays.

Especially liked the chapters on service-leadership and their intrinsic connection in Jesus, the chapter on forgiveness, and the chapter on abortion, or the saying that there is room for both contemplative and active in the Church (St. Joan and St. Therese). I'd say the book got better as it went on.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. We're the same kind of Catholic, and it's so refreshing to walk with her in the nuance between right and left. Prolife and pro-immigrant and anti-racism and love through service and evangelize through relationship and serve in person and bring a meal and watch a kid and donate blood and wear the damn mask and and and. It's not difficult. We live a life of love through action. We offer fraternal correction only if in a loving relationship. We confess. We repent. We pray. We try again. We get to know God in our neighbor, the poor, the child, the addict, the inappropriately dressed for mass . . . so we can BE God to them. Quick read. Good chapter length for a meditation or journal prompt.

[Maureen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really appreciated the positivity of this book at a time where I am pretty disenchanted many people who claim to be Christians. That being said, it seems to be written by and for someone who feels firmly planted in Catholicism and needs help seeing how to bring feminism into that space, whereas I am confidently feminist and less sold on some of the practices I see from Catholics and the church. I needed the author to engage more deeply with the questions I have about the church instead of remaining so superficial in her defense

[Jessy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I might have loved this book had it been my first introduction to Claire, or if I had read it back in college. As it is, the book didn’t offer much to me that I hadn’t already heard on the Catholic Feminist podcast. If you’ve read the book and liked it, I recommend the podcast. If you’ve listened to the podcast and liked it, you may not need the book.

[Norman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll say first of all that I’m a man who, while disliking labels, would be thought of by the Catholic community as, well, Protestant. Claire Swinarski’s book is me trying to broaden my horizons by reading Girl, Arise! which is effectively a full on attempt at a Catholic Feminist manifesto. I say ‘full on’ because the author doesn’t mess about but jumps straight in to argue for the freeing of Catholic women from more traditional roles in the church, and, how can I put it, let them loose to effect change in the world. It reads like a rallying cry to light the fires of “moxie” (energy, determination etc) in the lives of Catholic women. The trouble with lighting fires of “moxie” is that people can be swept along on a tide of emotional energy only to find this extinguished when that initial energy fades. However, I think Swinarski avoids this danger by rooting her feminist theology in the Bible with multiple examples of women in the Old and New Testaments...and in Apocryphal books Protestants would consider non-canonical. There is much to learn here if one is willing to listen. I was particularly taken with Swinarski’s way of dealing with the Apostle Paul and his frequently considered hostility towards woman. Swinarski highlights the cultural and temporal meaning of some of Paul’s views. It is a very fair reading of Paul although the author does say she’d rather deal with Job than Paul (a sentiment probably shared by many)! I found the book thoroughly engaging and would like to revisit it after the dust has settled on a first reading. Swinarski sounds a bit like a civil rights leader or a firecracker which you let loose then stand back and expect a hard hitting fireworks display (which is delivered) but that’s no bad thing. I suspect Paul would very much like Swinarski. I’ve already stated I dislike labels and while I understand the use of the phrase “Catholic feminist” I would have preferred these arguments (battle cries?) to simply come under the banner of ‘living for Jesus’. At the end of the day I don’t think Swinarski would disagree with that. Apparently the author has a podcast and I’ll be intrigued to listen to it now. Recommended reading, primarily presumably for Catholics but others traditions will benefit as well, I did.

Review via NetGalley/Ave Maria Press ARC.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you've ever questioned how a Catholic could be a feminist, then this book is perfect for you. While it is a bit more tailored toward Catholic Women, it is perfect for any young adult Catholic who is trying to find their voice in this world while staying true to the faith.

As a young adult woman in the 21st century, I observe from the sidelines how people argue about what is right and i too have been burned by the word Feminist. To me, it's a negative word almost akin to a curse word.

In Girl, Arise!, Claire Swinarski visits different traits and ways where to be Catholic in of itself is to be a Feminist. From how being Pro-Life is being Pro-Women to Loving JOY (Jesus, Others & Yourself). Claire's voice is clear and evident in every passage. If you've listened to any episode of The Catholic Feminist Podcast, you already know Claire's voice and Girl, Arise is an extension of that all around combining our beautiful Catholic Faith with being a true Catholic Feminist in our modern world where we are told day in and day out to be Catholic AND a Feminist is impossible.

This book is is already one of my favorite books that i have read this year and one I hope to recommend to the women of my church and community. It is a must have for the young adult women of the Catholic faith in this day and age who are looking for answers as to where to stand and how to fight back.

[Kristina Gutilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is refreshing and an absolute affirmation to any woman trying to be strong in her faith in today’s world. Every sentence is packed with love and truth and wisdom. It is easy and fun to read. With every page, I thought of another person in my life I wanted to share this book with. This book will be a staple on my bookshelf. I’ve just finished reading it for the first time, and the next time will be with a pencil and a highlighter. A book like this is rare, and I’m certain the lessons in it are timeless, especially since they are derived from the teachings of our Catholic Church. Beautifully done!

[Marissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I was even more pleasantly surprised how much I learned. As a fan of the Catholic Feminist Podcast, I was not sure if I would gain that much more in reading the book since I feel like much of the content gets discussed on the show. However, it was refreshing to hear everything from Claire's perspective and learn about the theology and philosophy that drives her faith and her feminism. Excellent book!

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

My biggest piece of advice when reading this is to do so with a pen and/or highlighter in hand. While I do think this was more so targeted towards younger women, it is a book every woman (young or old, Catholic or not) could benefit from reading. I can’t say I agreed 100% with everything she said throughout, but what person do we agree with 100%? We need more women like Swinarski in this world. I found myself mentally applauding on virtually every page. I can’t wait to read her next book.

[Karla Labanda Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book!! Just what I needed. I'll re-read it soon, I want to take notes to understand it better.

The book helped me to understand where I stand in this wide spectrum of feminist, catholic women. Obviosuly, I didn't agree with everything that was written, but in general it was a very interesting point of view.

We are daughters of God!!

[Sherry Campeau · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's refreshing to see a book that is both feminist AND Catholic, acknowledging that women can be powerful, but not needing to bash men to make the point. As a cradle Catholic who was fairly well catechized there is nothing earth shattering in this book, but it's nice to know that i am not alone on the journey. it's an interesting and enjoyable read.

[Ella Brickman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. Goodness. I am on FIRE for the Holy Spirit right now!! Claire writes absolutely everything that a Catholic woman, feminist or not, needs to read. She hits every issue and then some, and she is not afraid to write the truth. Her call for true Catholicism in our world is much needed, and this book WILL bring you closer to God and love His Church all the more!

[Kellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Girl, Arise! is relevant, honest, thought-provoking, relatable, humorous, and full of moxie! @thecatholicfeminist did a brilliant job of addressing hot-button issues without fear! This is a must-read for any Catholic woman seeking their place in the vast world of feminism! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Alli Shoemaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

😭 finally someone who gets me. Such a refreshing, hilarious, poignant voice in the world of feminism. I found myself laughing and getting the chills all within 100ish pages. Also, I’m glad I’m not the only millennial who was deeply affected by The Prince of Egypt movie 😂

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love so much that Claire is not afraid of being completely honest with her opinions which leads to being a little “sweary” and enraged. Not only did she speak out loud the truth I’ve personally felt, but she also gave some beautiful parting thoughts to more fully engage my next steps.