She Said by Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey
She Said is a thrilling account of Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey’s New York Times article breaking the Harvey Weinstein scandal. Written in a logic driven, traditional style of investigative journalism, the book takes us through the painstaking research process, whereby facts are checked through complicated document trails and chasing down tips. We also gain insight into the human aspect of the journalistic process and the development of relationships with sources, underpinned by constant contact and cultivating trust.
Although this book follows the Harvey Weinstein scandal in particular, the Kantor and Twohey focus on the enabling structures that allowed Weinstein, and others like him, to use their power to exploit women and get away with it, both in a toxic Hollywood context, but also in the structures of American society itself. I found Chapter 3, “How to Silence a Victim” particularly enthralling, as the authors dig into previous cases of workplace sexual harassment/assault by powerful men and explore how the complex network of legal and social mechanisms in order work to silence women, facilitating reinforcement of the abusive behavior.
Current events in Denmark, with Sofie Lindes speech drawing attention to sexual harassment in the workplace, the following declarations from Danish academic, political, media, and film branches denouncing sexism, and the Morten Østergaard #MeToo scandal, make this a highly relevant read. After reading this, I feel that I can apply to the current debates a more nuanced and critical perspective on how social structures perpetuate and enable sexist behavior in this society.
Infuriating at times but a must read, enjoy!
Reviewed by Emma Mikkelsen