I finished this brilliant book while lying on the beach, unable to go for a swim until I had absorbed every word. I got to learn about who Chanel Miller the person is behind the mask of Emily Doe, known for so long as an “unconscious woman raped by Brock Turner”. She is an artist, a magnificent writer, a fiercely protective sister & daughter and a cracking stand-up comedian etc etc etc. She is so many things and more. When I picked up this book, I knew it would be an important story, but I had no idea how amazing of a writer she is. It’s so hard to describe because she really manages to transport you into her shoes and understand what it is to have your identity stripped, your voice silenced and to have to rebuild your life after it was put on hold by a very public and gruelling court trial (AND appeal). Above all, she inspires so much hope and is able to bring levity to the story through her wicked sense of humour and fascinating personality. I enjoyed getting to know you and living in your world for a bit, Chanel. And if you’re reading this and are also a survivor, please know I’m with you. You are worthy. You are valued. You are strong ♥️
Here’s the second memoir I’ve read this month and I’m psyched to be recommending it to EVERYONE. If you’re curious about how Hollywood can traumatise a young person, read this book. I loved the audiobook as the story was told by Jennette herself and it brings you into the fascinating mind of Jennette McCurdy as she was experiencing every stage of becoming and eventually working as an actor. It’s written in the present tense so you feel you’re right there with her. It also sheds much light on healing from parental abuse to the point where I think a lot of non-actors with similar experiences can relate to. All of this darkness, however, is lightened by McCurdy’s hilarious sense of humour and unique way of looking at the world. Thumbs up from me!
Moderate: Child abuse, Emotional abuse, and Death of parent
Minor: Alcoholism
Here’s the second memoir I’ve read this month and I’m psyched to be recommending it to EVERYONE. If you’re curious about how Hollywood can traumatise a young person, read this book. I loved the audiobook as the story was told by Jennette herself and it brings you into the fascinating mind of Jennette McCurdy as she was experiencing every stage of becoming and eventually working as an actor. It’s written in the present tense so you feel you’re right there with her. It also sheds much light on healing from parental abuse to the point where I think a lot of non-actors with similar experiences can relate to. All of this darkness, however, is lightened by McCurdy’s hilarious sense of humour and unique way of looking at the world. Thumbs up from me!
I loved Charlie and Nora’s chemistry and the unconventional nature of the story. The characterisation of both Charlie and Nora was beautiful. I really felt I understood them both. The audiobook was excellent. Libby was really annoying throughout the book but I sort of got her perspective in the end. I also thought the last third of the book dragged too much. The conflict felt never-ending, especially when you know the romance would end happily for the couple. Other than that - a solid romance with beautiful writing!