Wow, tough question! I’ll choose, The Female Man by Joanna Russ. An
exciting, subversive and very witty Feminist Sci-fi novel. It had a massive
impact on me when I first read it, and still continues to influence my
outlook on life. Through a plurality of narrative voices, each one existing
in a different time/space, Russ explores the fragmentary existence which
patriarchal society enforces on female identity. Also, it triggered my
recognition that; being female is NOT the same as being feminine!
Must also include, Tales Of Mystery and Imagination by Edgar Allan
Poe. Like a favourite pair of slippers or a comfort blanket, this is the
book which comes on holiday with me every time – just as ’emergency
back-up!’ Its delightful sense of ‘the uncanny’ and just its sheer
Gothic-ness never lets me down!
