Boobs (Lisa Portolan & Amanda Goff, Echo)

Boobs is an exploration of all things breasts. Combining personal insight with research, Amanda Goff (Misfit: The Unravelling of Samantha X) and Lisa Portolan examine the ways that breasts are perceived, augmented and policed in Western societies. They explore each topic – from Wonderbras to breastfeeding – through candid conversations with friends and colleagues, blending stories with sharp observation and humour. As co-authors, their dynamic forms the backbone of the book: Portolan brings a journalistic curiosity, while Goff shares her firsthand experiences with breast enlargement surgeries as a former escort. Goff’s story is one of hyperawareness: on the size of her breasts, on their look, and on the way others perceive her because of them – all crucial to her identity. Her narrative is juxtaposed with Portolan’s experiences as someone who has not paid her breasts much attention. As the two women grow closer, their perspectives change. Goff considers breast reduction options, and at the same time, Portolan becomes intensely immersed in the subject, particularly on the cultural meanings surrounding breasts, and even considers getting implants herself. Boobs is for readers drawn to personal explorations of female identity and the body. It is light on factual detail and heavy on dialogue, with a playful tone and bite-sized segments that will appeal to those who prefer shorter, fast-paced books. 

Books+Publishing reviewer: Lisandra Linde is an author based on Kaurna country. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

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