The Bitch Is Back: Older, Wiser, and (Getting) Happier

"Born out of anger," the essays in The Bitch in the House chronicled the face of womanhood at the beginning of a new millennium. Now those funny, smart, passionate contributors—today less bitter and resentful, and more confident, competent, and content—capture the spirit of postfeminism in this equally provocative, illuminating, and compelling companion anthology.

Having aged into their forties, fifties, and sixties, these "bitches"—bestselling authors, renowned journalists, and critically acclaimed novelists—are back . . . and better than ever. In The Bitch Is Back, Cathi Hanauer, Kate Christensen, Sarah Crichton, Debora Spar, Ann Hood, Veronica Chambers, and nineteen other women offer unique views on womanhood and feminism today. Some of the "original bitches" (OBs) revisit their earlier essays to reflect on their previous selves. All reveal how their lives have changed in the intervening years—whether they stayed coupled, left marriages, or had affairs; developed cancer or other physical challenges; coped with partners who strayed, died, or remained faithful; became full-time wage earners or homemakers; opened up their marriages; remained childless or became parents; or experienced other meaningful life transitions.

As a "new wave" of feminists begins to take center stage, this powerful, timely collection sheds a much-needed light on both past and present, offering understanding, compassion, and wisdom for modern women’s lives, all the while pointing toward the exciting possibilities of tomorrow.

What happens after the anger fades and the real work of midlife begins?

• Marriage and Midlife: Candid stories of staying together, navigating separation, having affairs, or finding a new kind of partnership after decades together.
• Motherhood and The Empty Nest: Honest reflections on becoming a parent later in life, choosing to be child-free, or discovering who you are after the children leave home.
• Sex, Aging, and Body Image: Unflinching takes on menopause, the pressure to "have work done," and what happens to desire and intimacy in a long-term relationship.
• Postfeminism and Women's Choices: From being the primary breadwinner to becoming a single mother by choice, these stories explore the freedom and complexity of being a woman today.