Not Captivated

This is most certainly not a full review, but I was bought the book Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge for Christmas, and felt obliged to read it, despite some misgivings. I write hesitatingly, as I don't want to be too harsh or unkind, but the book troubled me. It made many assumptions about women, ranging from all girls wanting to be princesses, the majority of girls having a twirly skirt stage, as well as loving horses and all females wanting to have their Question answered: Am I lovely?

The book made me cross and most of all saddened me, as I felt it pigeonholed women and relied on thoughtless sterotypes, despite at various points claiming not to be doing this. It saddens me that so many have read it, and although on one level I am of course pleased that they found some sort of encouragement through it, I also find it worrying that it IS so popular and women feel able to connect with it, despite its reliance on gender stereotypes.

I felt it would have made a much better autobiography, as Stasi has obviously had some horrid and hurtful experiences, and her relationship with God has sustained her in these times. I just wish the book didn't revert to unhelpful generalisations and attempt to speak on behalf of all women.


What do others think? Have other people read it and take a different perspective? Or have they read the original for Alpha Males - Wild at Heart??