"Trailblazer" by Jane Robinson features Barbara Leigh Smith Bodichon's life and works. It promotes a lesser-known Victorian feminist in particular. Bodichon's impact was felt across many human rights movements, including feminism, equal opportunities, and mental health awareness. Even though she is not featured in any history books, Bodichon was essential in paving the way for other revolutionary leaders. As humorous, friendly, and kind as she was, her role in founding the British suffrage movement and Girton College is beyond doubt.
Robinson's book celebrates Bodichon's multifaceted legacy as a campaigner, artist, and advocate for human rights. It sheds light on a remarkable woman who lived on her terms and made significant contributions to societal progress, deserving recognition and gratitude from contemporary audiences.
Robinson, a social historian and writer with a lifelong connection to Somerville College, hailed from Edinburgh and grew up near the North Yorkshire Moors. An avid reader since childhood, she was once banned from a local library for using a jam-tart bookmark in a book. After studying English Language and Literature at Somerville College, Robinson worked in the antiquarian book trade in London, where her first book, "Wayward Women," was commissioned.
Now a full-time writer and lecturer, Robinson focuses on social history from women's perspectives, with over a dozen books covering topics like women's education and the suffrage movement. She resides near Oxford but regularly visits the Somerville archives to catalog Special Collections.
The Guardian commented that Bodichon, a renowned figure in Victorian literary society, is somewhat unappreciated by history. However, her worthy contribution to feminism and education is considerable. Robinson's "Trailblazer" attempts to fix this injustice, depicting Bodichon as a multifaceted trailblazer.
From the role she played in founding Girton College to the fact that she was associated with notable personages like George Eliot and Florence Nightingale, Bodichon's life is as eventful and unusual. Robinson explores Bodichon's domestic existence, especially her relations with men like John Chapman or her eccentric marriage to a French doctor.
Robinson's narrative stings in overly playful mode, eroding its seriousness. Overall, "Trailblazer" thoroughly introduces Bodichon's life and accomplishments, bringing to light a Victorian feminist of no ordinary.
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A review from Goodreads by Shari Burke said that Bodichon, though lesser-known, was a formidable figure in Victorian society, renowned for her activism, artistry, and influential connections. Robinson's biography delves into Bodichon's life, exploring possible reasons for her relative obscurity, such as her unconventional upbringing and private nature. The reviewer applauded the writer, saying that despite limited resources, Robinson paints a vivid portrait of Bodichon, analyzing her impact on society and personal relationships.
While occasionally incorporating speculation, the biography offers insight into Bodichon's character and achievements, making it a compelling and informative read. Robinson's thorough examination of Bodichon's life contributes significantly to women's social history, making the book a recommended and enlightening read.
In a media review published by Waterstones, Daisy Goodwin praised Robinson's biography of Bodichon, which she had described as a valuable historical account, as a fascinating study of a Victorian feminist heroine. Contrary to previous perceptions, Bodichon's multifaceted experiences in education and social reform are adopted, portraying that she was a significant figure for women's entry into the political and professional realms.
Robinson pays tribute to Bodichon's shrewdness, originality, and iron will by narrating stories and disclosing profound analysis. Susan J. Smith, the former head of Girton College, speaks well of the book, for she is the one who highlights its value, informing of Bodichon being one of the transformative agents in gender equality.
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