With all the hype surrounding this book and the stories of stores out of stock, I jumped at the chance to buy “I’m Glad My Mom Died” by Jennette McCurdy when I saw it at Content Bookstore last weekend. The title is incredibly controversial, and I did take off the book jacket as soon as I got back to my place. I feared I’d get some judgment if anyone saw me reading a book with a cover expressing something other than grief over the loss of a mother. That being said, after completing the book, I love the title.
This book is written in a series of very short chapters, typically two to four pages. There are 91 chapters in this 304-page book, so it’s the perfect book to pick up for ten minutes before bed or when you have some free time before classes. You have the chance to consume this memoir in short snapshots instead of getting sucked into the commitment of a 30-page chapter that loses you in the middle. I rarely read because I can never find the time, but this memoir was incredibly approachable and addictive.
The book is written in the present tense, allowing readers to peer into the key moments of the author’s life. I’m generally not a huge fan of the present tense, but because each chapter is so short and jumps from moment to moment, I didn’t hate this writing style. McCurdy is also able to pack in some humor and a lot of personality, making her voice come across more clearly.
For the most part, this is a straightforward life story with lots of trying circumstances, trauma, healing, and growth. I do not have any experience with eating disorders, but I would advise caution for anyone sensitive to certain ED triggers. I learned a lot and got a different perspective on issues centered around eating, as well as what recovery and healing can look like. This book is incredibly honest and raw. I would say that the last chapter of the book, in which McCurdy reflects back on all of the trauma her mother caused her, was my favorite. It definitely earns the controversial title. Overall, I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an insightful and inspirational read.
