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3.78 AVERAGE
3.78 AVERAGE
Pleasantly surprised by how written and thoughtful these "letters" were, maybe even more insightful and raw than a traditional memoir.
This is not your typical memoir. Ms. Parker writes 34 short letters to various men who have had an impact on her life. In these letters she expresses her gratitude, love, joy, and sometimes despair. There are also letters of apology. She also gives advice to her daughter's future partner in a letter "Dear Future Man who loves by Daughter" which was one of my favorites. She is a talented writer--witty, poetic, and humorous.
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
fast-paced
Every one of Mary-Louise Parker's performances, from Fried Green Tomatoes to The West Wing to Weeds, has carried with it a raw authenticity that I've totally bought, and this book is no exception. Even when I don't like her, I get her. (Small quibble: I am not a fan of breathy sex talk from my audiobook narrators. Waaay to intimate for my tastes.)
Not a straightforward memoir, and all the better for it. Much more poetic and philosophical than I expected. I'm eagerly awaiting a follow-up: Dear Ms. You.
Not a straightforward memoir, and all the better for it. Much more poetic and philosophical than I expected. I'm eagerly awaiting a follow-up: Dear Ms. You.
I'd probably give this one 3.5 stars, but I rounded up. I had a hard time getting into the writing and the style at first, but the more I read the more I appreciated the creative, haunting (at times) voice and one-of-a-kind style. This book is like nothing else I've read. Particularly the later chapters about her deep experiences with family and friends drew me in and alternately warmed/ripped at my heart. Best enjoyed with some comforting tea and a blanket.
The idea of a memoir through letters to major players in your life, is a creative one. Some letters were quite moving while others left me wanting more or confused. Parker does write well and it's not a very long book, so if you're a fan, you may still want to check it out.
Not starring this one as I just couldn't get into it, but that's not necessarily a failing of the book. Maybe it will be a better read another time.