Review: Sex, Lies and Question Time by Kate Ellis

Former member for Adelaide Kate Ellis explores what it means to be a woman inside one of the most volatile workplaces in Australia--Parliament House, Canberra. Leveraging on her own experiences as a Member of Parliament in Opposition, in Cabinet and as a Backbencher, and with interviews with other MPs past and present across all parties, Kate Ellis paints a picture of the unique struggles faced by female politicians--sexism, malicious gossip and the expectations by the public and the media of how each individual juggles their career with motherhood (or the choice not to be a mother at all.)

My interest in this one was piqued in part by the recent, disgraceful scandals that have rocked Parliament in recent times, ones that I'm sure need no introduction or further commentary here. I was keen to see what a former politician, one who left on her own terms, would have to say about working in Parliament House. The picture Ellis paints isn't pretty. There is sleaze, the expectations of the public and the media, rumours and some nasty internet trolls. However, the work is a long way from being a scandal rag. Ellis offers insight into her experiences, has accompanied it with research and most important of all, she interviewed a number of other female politicians, from across parties, eras and all who have their own unique experiences, stories and coping methods. 

Although written in an intelligent, conversational style, this one isn't always the easiest of reads due to the heavy subject matter. Still, it's an important subject and one well worth educating yourself about--don't forget, these are the people who are essentially running the country.

Recommended.

This book counts toward my reading goal for the Aussie Author Challenge 2021

This book counts toward my reading goal for the Non-Fiction Reader Challenge

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