The View from Down Here by Lucy Webster is a searingly honest description of what life looks like from the perspective of a disabled woman. While it does not make for easy or pretty reading, I think it gives the reader plenty to think about and an insight into the challenges the author faces when it comes to even the most mundane of daily activities like going out with friends or even getting dressed, not to mention the bigger issues like dating, sex and having a family. However lest you get the impression that it is nothing but misery, let me disabuse you of that notion, the author's wit and sense of humor comes across very well and really makes you feel like you are getting to know her as a person. One of the most interesting concepts that she returns to several times is the idea of the social model of disability, i.e. she is disabled by ableism and inaccessibility rather than her physical impairment, which is not something I had really considered before, but which makes a lot of sense and really highlights the difference that accessibility accommodations can make in the life of a disabled person. The discussion of the intersection of feminism and disability activism also made for some thought provoking content, and I was appalled to learn that disabled women face higher rates of domestic and sexual abuse but are often trapped by their circumstances, something that is obvious once you think about it, but so heartbreaking to realise. I really appreciated the discussion of the importance of care and those who provide caring services, often women. These services are so valuable and important to the people who need them, but often looked down upon by those who do not realise that care is life enabling, and makes a well lived life possible for many people with disabilities. While the author does talk about how things have improved in the last number of years and the rising numbers of disabled role models on social media etc, it does seem that there is still a lot of work to be done in this arena. This is an important book, one that will educate and spark discussion, but also one that will make you feel, from the happy moments like the author finding her tribe at university, to the downright infuriating response she got from a dating site, it really is a glimpse into the author's world and I feel honored to have been able to learn and grow from the experience of reading it. I read a review copy courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.

As a disabled woman myself this was a must read for me but I honestly feel that this should be a must read for everyone. The View From Down Here is more than a memoir it’s inspiring and educational. This book has the power to make people feel less alone and isolated and also teach and educate others on the impact ableism and feminism has on disabled women. Lucy covers a variety of topics which the readers can relate to and can benefit from reading. Reading Lucy’s words made me feel less alone and also gave validation to my feelings and experiences as well. I really do feel that able-bodied people should read this as well to help them understand what we face and to help combat ableism and to help make the necessary changes.