expectations raised in 1992, when women's stunning victories in national, state, and local elections prompted the press to declare it "The Year of the Woman." This is the first book to analyze the barriers to women's political advancement from the perspective of women politicians themselves--those on the national scene as well as those at the grassroots level. The author conducted extensive interviews with women officeholders across the country. Their colorful and candid remarks and personal experiences dramatically illustrate why political parity has proven so illusive. The author analyzes women politicians' motives for continuing in public office despite the odds. She examines their powerful impact on legislative issues. Finally, she presents persuasive arguments on how the female majority can come together to control the very electoral process that makes them feel so powerless.

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