In “Women in Politics" Mary Hayashi tells of her personal experience that led her to a career in public service and politics. Hayashi was born in South Korea and moved with her family to America before she entered her teens. She started her American education not speaking English and being a minority in her school. Her childhood was traumatized by the suicide of her older sister. Raised in a shame-based household, her sister had no way of getting help. Hayashi witnessed how her parents worked to erase the fact that her sister had ever existed. Hayashi became motivated to make a change and to find help for those who need it. She has been a champion in the world of mental health advocacy. In a world where women are “seen and not heard” and expected to manage the house and children rather than be educated, Mary decided to bridge the gap, attending college in the 1980’s.

Hayashi shares her story and explores the stories of other women who are engaged in the political world. Her central idea is that although much progress has been made there is still much work left to be done. There is still an American bias against women serving in positions of power. Hayashi appeals to her female readers to take hold of the power they have within themselves to speak and be heard. She points out that it is women who are needed to address the issues that affect the well being of children and families. She advocates for true representation. Women making up 51% of the population should have equal representation in the political world.

Hayashi’s book is both encouraging and motivating. In a world where we are being told what we should NOT read, here is a book that EVERY women SHOULD read. Especially those young enough to take it to heart and use their own careers to better our world. I would recommend this book to all high school and college students…not just the women! If you have a high school or college student I would encourage you to read Hayashi’s book and share it with your student.