Ruth Bader Ginsburg's My Own Words is celebrated for its insightful glimpse into her legal mind and personal anecdotes. Readers praise its clarity and inspirational nature, though some find it lacking in depth and cohesion. Overall, it's a compelling introduction to Ginsburg's legacy but may not fully satisfy those seeking comprehensive legal analysis.

Readers who enjoy My Own Words by Ruth Bader Ginsburg are likely interested in legal history, feminist thought, and personal narratives from influential figures. Comparable to fans of Becoming by Michelle Obama and The Nine by Jeffrey Toobin, they appreciate insights into the Supreme Court and judicial processes from a pioneering woman's perspective.

My Own Words by Ruth Bader Ginsburg, with coauthors Mary Hartnett and Wendy W. Williams, chronicles Ginsburg's journey from her childhood to her tenure as a Supreme Court Justice, focusing on her work in gender equality, legal writings, and significant court opinions. This collection includes essays, lectures, and personal reflections showcasing her extensive career and enduring legacy.

Informative / Inspirational / Contemplative / Hopeful

- My Own Words is the first book by Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg since she became a justice in 1993, providing readers insight into her personal and professional life as well as her thoughts on significant legal issues.
- The book includes a collection of Justice Ginsburg's writings and speeches throughout her career, co-authored by Mary Hartnett and Wendy W. Williams, who also worked on her official biography.
- One unique aspect of My Own Words is that it begins with Ginsburg’s writings from the eighth grade, offering a glimpse of her early intellectual development and interests before her distinguished legal career.

**Ruth Bader Ginsburg**  
A pioneering advocate for gender equality and the second woman justice on the US Supreme Court, who rose to iconic status through her extensive legal work and dedication to social justice.

**Martin “Marty” Ginsburg**  
Ruth's supportive husband and a prominent tax attorney known for his humor and culinary skills, who played a vital role in empowering her throughout her legal career.

**Mary Hartnett**  
An adjunct professor involved in the Women's Law and Public Policy Fellowship program, who sought to assist Ginsburg in documenting her life through selected writings and biographies.

**Wendy W. Williams**  
A colleague of Ginsburg's with a focus on gender issues in the family, advocating for equal rights and participating in documenting Ginsburg's life story.

**Celia Bader**  
Ruth's mother, whom Ruth remembers as a brave and strong influence, offering inspiration despite her early death when Ruth was 17.

**Justice Antonin Scalia**  
A Supreme Court justice known for his opposing views to Ginsburg in many respects, yet regarded by her as a true friend with whom she shared a collegial relationship.

**Justice Sandra Day O’Connor**  
The first woman on the Supreme Court and a personal friend and mentor to Ginsburg, known for their productive collaboration despite differing judicial philosophies.

**Chief Justice William Rehnquist**  
Remembered by Ginsburg for his fairness and leadership abilities during his tenure on the Supreme Court.

**Justice Louis Brandeis**  
One of the Jewish justices discussed by Ginsburg for his contributions to the court, reflecting her pride in her Jewish heritage.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

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Part 1: “Early Years and Lighter Side”

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Part 2: “Tributes to Waypavers and Pathmarkers”

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Part 3: “On Gender Equality: Women and the Law”

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Part 4: “A Judge Becomes a Justice”

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Part 5: “The Justice on Judging and Justice”

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