The Most Normal Woman : Essays on Appearances - Roisin Kiberd
Roisin Kiberd
- Pages · n/a
- Publication Date · 27/08/2026
- Genre · Literary essays
In this dynamic new collection of essays, critically acclaimed author Roisin Kiberd dissects the business of attaining perfection - or even normality - through consumption and body modification. Linking her personal experiences with Botox and eating disorders to broader phenomena, the author explores subcultures including the underground drag scene and competitive dog shows to better understand how differing groups define and judge excellence. From Westport to Paris, Dublin to Berlin, Versailles to the Ringsend Recycling Centre, Kiberd takes us on a journey of obsession with an unanticipated answer to the question: am I normal yet?
Only at Gulp Fiction
Book Lovers' Happy Hour
An hour and a half at the bar, with three cocktails matched to your taste and three books chosen for you. Tell us what you like when you book, and we'll have them waiting when you arrive.
- 1½ hours
- £60 per person
- 3 cocktails, 3 books
Up to four of you can come — book a place each and choose the same time slot, then tell us who you're with. For larger groups, email gulpfictionbooks@gmail.com and we'll arrange it.
Collect in store
Order online and pick it up from the shop. It's free, and usually quicker than the post.
Find us
Units 28–29, Covered Market, Oxford OX1 3DU. Mon–Wed 10–5, Thu–Sat 10–10, Sun 11–4.
Book a table
The bar is open late Thursday to Saturday. Reserve a table for a drink among the books.