Chapter 14, Let a Thousand Flowers Bloom Summary and Analysis

In this chapter, Dr. Pipher reviews the histories of several strong young women. These are strong girls know who they are and value themselves. Girls who already have a purpose in life, like taking care of an ill parent or helping others, tend to fare better in adolescence. Strong girls usually have a close relationship with at least one family member, even in dysfunctional families. They maintain their childhood relationships and interests. They may be more perceptive than other girls their age. Some realize that they are being pressured by unhealthy cultural influences in their lives.

Ironically, Dr. Pipher notes that many female leaders, including Marie Curie, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Maya Angelou, describe being isolated as adolescents. As young girls, all refuse to acknowledge gender limitations. Dr. Pipher explains that isolation...