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aeahb2's review
4.0
I read a fair amount of memoirs (This is the 20th book I've shelved under that tag and probably more out there that I've read and haven't logged). I make it a point not to read books that are rushed into publication to capitalize on the subject's current 15 minutes of fame, as they tend to be heavily ghostwritten and offer a series of platitudes and flimsy introspections. Sometimes the details of the subject's life aren't even correct (like, seriously ghostwritter, just do a quick google search or something).
HOWEVER.
Raisman is far enough removed from her "celebrity" moment - the 2016 Olympics were over a year and a half ago, and the 2012 Olympics are even further back. She has also been outspoken on body positivity in an era that desperately needs her voice. Also, I have such a soft spot for her I decided to take the plunge.
It was so worth it.
Yes, there are a few moments of "you can do it" and "be your best self" messages in there, but it wasn't overly cloying. The overall message is an important one, and I applaud Aly (and it definitely felt like Aly wrote MOST of this book and only used a ghostwriter to put some shine on her narrative) for the incredibly bravery it took to publish some of the stories that didn't shine a favorable light on USA Gymnastics, an organization that she may hope to continue competing for in the future. I was also honestly surprised at just how good the writing was.
This story is important, bold, honest, and moving. I only hope Aly's voice inspires many to achieve their dreams, but also to speak up if something isn't right, and to have confidence in their own person and body.
My younger self would have LOVED this book and I think that the younger generation will too. There's a future Olympian in that crowd somewhere.
HOWEVER.
Raisman is far enough removed from her "celebrity" moment - the 2016 Olympics were over a year and a half ago, and the 2012 Olympics are even further back. She has also been outspoken on body positivity in an era that desperately needs her voice. Also, I have such a soft spot for her I decided to take the plunge.
It was so worth it.
Yes, there are a few moments of "you can do it" and "be your best self" messages in there, but it wasn't overly cloying. The overall message is an important one, and I applaud Aly (and it definitely felt like Aly wrote MOST of this book and only used a ghostwriter to put some shine on her narrative) for the incredibly bravery it took to publish some of the stories that didn't shine a favorable light on USA Gymnastics, an organization that she may hope to continue competing for in the future. I was also honestly surprised at just how good the writing was.
This story is important, bold, honest, and moving. I only hope Aly's voice inspires many to achieve their dreams, but also to speak up if something isn't right, and to have confidence in their own person and body.
My younger self would have LOVED this book and I think that the younger generation will too. There's a future Olympian in that crowd somewhere.
lauraleethomas's review against another edition
4.0
I love Aly Raisman and I really enjoyed listening to her Olympic journey. I wish she had narrated the entire book.
hedytf's review
3.0
To begin with, I had requested this book from my library far before Aly Became a national hero for her testimony against Larry Nassar. As such, from the very beginning there were side mentions of things like the Karolyi Ranch and her first meeting with Nassar that felt like horror-movie level foreshadowing. She addresses the abuse briefly in the book. I get the feeling she's trying to provide positive body image inspo for her younger fan, but I worry that details of her diet could hurt them.
In short, a good read, but I'm too old and Aly's narrative had changed too much for it.
In short, a good read, but I'm too old and Aly's narrative had changed too much for it.
aggieags17's review against another edition
5.0
Aly Raisman is a golden human being and deserves only the best in life.
-Still too lazy to write a full book review but this book was amazing
-Still too lazy to write a full book review but this book was amazing
serena520's review
5.0
Aly Raisman is one of my biggest inspirations and I absolutely loved this book. That’s all I can even say.
marawoo's review against another edition
4.0
I really enjoyed this behind the scenes look at Aly’s life, including both her Olympics. Her statements about body image, depression, and abuse are very timely, and she’s a great role model for many girls.
I did the audiobook, and while I enjoyed the content, I was not a fan of the narrator’s tone throughout. I felt everything was said with an explanation point on the end. It’s definitely not the only reason, but I felt nearly sick when the statement “Not everyone wears gloves” was said (very stark from the tone of the rest of the narrators voice). I’m glad the Nassar case was brought up, and I appreciate her sharing about the scandal, but I’m so glad the book was not defined by it, just as her life isn’t either. She’s so strong and brave I’m so many ways. I recommend this book to many.
I did the audiobook, and while I enjoyed the content, I was not a fan of the narrator’s tone throughout. I felt everything was said with an explanation point on the end. It’s definitely not the only reason, but I felt nearly sick when the statement “Not everyone wears gloves” was said (very stark from the tone of the rest of the narrators voice). I’m glad the Nassar case was brought up, and I appreciate her sharing about the scandal, but I’m so glad the book was not defined by it, just as her life isn’t either. She’s so strong and brave I’m so many ways. I recommend this book to many.