Diane Gallo

Elaine Auerbach's book, Dirty Linen, is a must-read. It is the story of Elaine's and her colleagues' campaign to publicize and end sexual discrimination at Reader's Digest. Dirty Linen is an uplifting and personal look at talented women who wouldn't settle for being mistreated and had the courage to speak up and keep at it. For many women, advocating for change is hard. Women are not expected to raise their voices and ask for what they need, and when they do, they are seen as aggressive. Dirty Linen succeeds in making this a personal story that is heartfelt and honest. You really feel what Elaine and her co-workers were going through, both on a personal and a corporate level. The legal battle they waged was fascinating to learn about. And they were successful, though it took many years of hard work. Although written about something that took place decades ago, the sad thing is that this book and it’s story are still so relevant today, where women are still discriminated against and harassed in the workplace. I recommend Dirty Linen to all readers who wish to understand and to change the workplace conditions that are a hindrance for so many…and who want to curl up with a good book!