Today on the blog we welcome author Elizabeth McGivern, with her guest post ‘It’s Time to Claim Back the Phrase ‘Chick-Lit’‘, as part of the blog tour for her latest book, ‘Amy Cole has lost her mind’, which was released on 25th May 2018. Post contains affiliate links.

Elizabeth McGivern is a former journalist turned hostage-in-her-own-home surrounded by three men and a horrible dog named Dougal.

In an effort to keep her sanity she decided to write a parenting blog after the birth of her first son so she can pinpoint the exact moment she failed as a mother.

In an unexpected turn of events, the blog helped her to find a voice and connect with parents in similar situations; namely those who were struggling with mental health issues and parenting. It was because of this encouragement – and wanting to avoid her children as much as possible – her debut novel, Amy Cole has lost her mind, was born.

Elizabeth lives in Northern Ireland although wishes she could relocate to Iceland on a daily basis.

It’s Time to Claim Back the Phrase ‘Chick-Lit’

When I was preparing to launch this book I ran through possible interview questions – an old habit from journalist days – and there was always a phrase that would make my skin bristle: chick lit.

We’ve all heard it, we all know the imagery it brings to mind and the negative connotations that are associated with it. Before now I would hate to have my book categorized under this title. I found it reductive and negative. I could hear the words ‘fluff’ ringing in my ears every time I came across a book labelled as such. I felt books that were under this hideous umbrella term were frivolous and basically tripe. As you can probably tell I had a strong opinion on this.

I found myself nodding in agreement with other authors who felt the same way and shuddered at another cover reveal that had a shoe on it. What is it about putting shoes on the covers of books aimed towards women? I’m getting off-tangent.

Anyway, back to chick-lit. I was preparing my stance on it, should an unfortunate interviewer describe by baby in this derogatory way and I came across a tweet. It was from a librarian who described a conversation between herself and a patron who was apologising for her ‘frivolous’ choice in books. The librarian reassured her that as long as enjoyed her choices then she shouldn’t apologise for it. I don’t know if this story is true or if it was one of those tales that do the rounds on the internet to pull at heartstrings but it got me thinking. Since when was I a book snob? I will never be the author of some great literary work – for God’s sake it’s a comedy about female friendship, it’s never going to change the world.

Chick Lit makes people happy, it’s filled with joy and hugely popular. Honestly, I would be extremely lucky to be included in this genre and the only person who is regarding this as a negative thing is me. It’s not like I’m constantly reading from The Classics section or choosing books that make you really ‘think’ about the cosmos or the meaning of life. I’m of the opinion that if I’m reading, I get to escape reality for a spell so why on earth would I want to read something that doesn’t make my heart swell with happiness.

One woman’s fluff is another woman’s Man Booker Prize winner. Read whatever the hell you want, but just keep reading. Read what makes you happy, otherwise what is the point?

Today is the official launch of my debut novel and if someone categorises it under the label chick-lit then that’s exactly what it is, especially if someone chooses this piece of work to escape a bad day or just fancies a laugh. Chick-Lit is engaging, funny, imaginative and explores a tonne of topics so re-evaluating my poorly thought out argument against it has led me to asking myself one important question: Am I proud of this label?

My answer is simple: You’re damn right I am

Amy Cole is a stay-at-home mum and a woman on the edge.

After a very public breakdown and failed suicide attempt, Amy finds herself trying to make it through her everyday life as a high-functioning zombie.

Elle De Bruyn is a force of nature ready to shake Amy back to life whether she likes it or not.

After a fortuitous meeting, the two embark on a journey together which will change them both and help them find out exactly what they’re capable of when rock bottom is just the beginning.