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4.09 AVERAGE
4.09 AVERAGE
Thoughts and Themes: I really enjoy reading memoirs and especially LGBTQ+ memoirs because I get to see different people’s lived experience. I like seeing that there are people with similar identities to me but they come to that conclusion differently and they all have a different way of viewing themselves.
There were so many times in this story that I was laughing out loud because of something said of because of the cleaver titles of the chapters. I do need to let you all know that this book is sexually explicit which some may find hard to read. I found those moments funny and liked to see how those moments helped Holly figure out her sexuality and gender identity.
I really enjoyed the honesty that you get from Holly throughout this book and how vulnerable the author is in these moments. I think that getting a chance to read these essays/short stories really gives you another perspective on who the author is. I would love to hear some of these pieces on audio because I think that they would be even better heard out loud.
Writing Style: This memoir is told through multiple short essays that have some humor mixed into each chapter. I really liked the variation in length of each of these short essays and how they are not always in chronological order. I liked that sometimes the essays went back in time to connect some of Holly’s past to her present.
There were so many times in this story that I was laughing out loud because of something said of because of the cleaver titles of the chapters. I do need to let you all know that this book is sexually explicit which some may find hard to read. I found those moments funny and liked to see how those moments helped Holly figure out her sexuality and gender identity.
I really enjoyed the honesty that you get from Holly throughout this book and how vulnerable the author is in these moments. I think that getting a chance to read these essays/short stories really gives you another perspective on who the author is. I would love to hear some of these pieces on audio because I think that they would be even better heard out loud.
Writing Style: This memoir is told through multiple short essays that have some humor mixed into each chapter. I really liked the variation in length of each of these short essays and how they are not always in chronological order. I liked that sometimes the essays went back in time to connect some of Holly’s past to her present.
That's the secret, isn't it? We are put here to be ourselves, to bumble and shine like the tenderhearted fools that we all are. My mom would tell you now if she could: don't hide yourself away. Even if your ship is a little ridiculous, you better learn to sail the s[--]t out of it, because if you do, it will eventually carry you somewhere beautiful.
Disclaimer - This book is geared more toward an older audience. But the topics discussed are the most important thing by far.
Firstly I'm.thankfuk to be able to receive this advanced copy. I love a good memoir especially when they can make me laugh and this one did exactly that. It was like a coaster ride or watching a movie. One moment I was laughing close to tears and next I was crying because of how sad it was. Then next I'm clapping because of the things Holly accomplished. This book shows a understanding of the true self, accepting who you are not what other want you to be. And doing your best at life.
Firstly I'm.thankfuk to be able to receive this advanced copy. I love a good memoir especially when they can make me laugh and this one did exactly that. It was like a coaster ride or watching a movie. One moment I was laughing close to tears and next I was crying because of how sad it was. Then next I'm clapping because of the things Holly accomplished. This book shows a understanding of the true self, accepting who you are not what other want you to be. And doing your best at life.
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
funny
hopeful
informative
medium-paced
Adding this to my shelf of books that make me feel seen. There’s honest discussion about the intersection of sexuality, gender, family relation and getting older but growing up, in a way that is so absolutely what I needed to hear. There’s a lot about shame and how the people who live us hurt us because they don’t know any better.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual assault, Sexual content, Medical content
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Homophobia, Transphobia, Death of parent
Thanks to Lorka's memoir, I know now that *at least* four Austinites (including my wife and I) dislike Mumford and Sons. Thank goodness.
Lorka's memoir was very relatable to this queer person. I laughed at the funny parts, gravely contemplated the serious parts, and squirmed uncomfortably at the frank truths within. (Like..."Fourth grade is easy for no one". Being raised Catholic and not understanding why you feel more tender toward girls than boys? So awkward.)
I largely connected with the geographic similarities (Woo, Austin!) between the author and I, as well as Lorka's raw admission of self-hatred and confusion during "2012 Bedpost Confessions". I actually wondered why that story wasn't at the end until I made it to the end. Very powerful.
On a lighter note, who but a Texan (native or transplant) understands how AWFUL it is to have your scooting (or skating) impeded by Texas Live Oak acorns??
Lastly, Lorka's story about the stuffed animal sorta broke my heart in a good way.
This is a beautiful and fulfilling book, one definitely worth reading!
Lorka's memoir was very relatable to this queer person. I laughed at the funny parts, gravely contemplated the serious parts, and squirmed uncomfortably at the frank truths within. (Like..."Fourth grade is easy for no one". Being raised Catholic and not understanding why you feel more tender toward girls than boys? So awkward.)
I largely connected with the geographic similarities (Woo, Austin!) between the author and I, as well as Lorka's raw admission of self-hatred and confusion during "2012 Bedpost Confessions". I actually wondered why that story wasn't at the end until I made it to the end. Very powerful.
On a lighter note, who but a Texan (native or transplant) understands how AWFUL it is to have your scooting (or skating) impeded by Texas Live Oak acorns??
Lastly, Lorka's story about the stuffed animal sorta broke my heart in a good way.
This is a beautiful and fulfilling book, one definitely worth reading!
"I'd shown these strangers all the scary and shameful parts of me, and they loved me for it."
This book is honest and funny. Holly explains what it's like to grow up in a body that doesn't feel right, and the journey to accepting that body. This book is raw and explains Holly's vulnerability, while also including life experiences that are funny and relatable.
This book made me laugh and cry, which is rare in a book. This book is so important for all people to read and to help them understand others. It is a true glimpse into gender, and so timely in the world we live in.
This book is honest and funny. Holly explains what it's like to grow up in a body that doesn't feel right, and the journey to accepting that body. This book is raw and explains Holly's vulnerability, while also including life experiences that are funny and relatable.
This book made me laugh and cry, which is rare in a book. This book is so important for all people to read and to help them understand others. It is a true glimpse into gender, and so timely in the world we live in.
emotional
funny
hopeful
fast-paced
Handsome is a lively collection of essays from Holly Lorka, ranging from incredibly poignant to laugh out loud funny (which is quite the balance to strike!). From an early age, she felt like something was missing- namely a penis. She was attracted to girls, but wanted to be a boy with them. She chronicles her journey to self-acceptance, highlighting relationships and experiences she's had along the way. With essays that can be about a rather serious topic, she will drop a one-liner, that is just perfect and hilarious. I also appreciated her clear enjoyment with being a nurse: how challenging, but rewarding the profession can be. The standout essay of Handsome is a transcript of her talk at Bedpost Confessions where she calls the baggage she carries through her life as loose change- something you would not think about all the time, but it is always there. One can imagine why she received a standing ovation after reading it. Highly recommend this joyous and moving essay collection.
Thank you to NetGalley and She Writes Press for providing me with an advance reader copy for review.
Thank you to NetGalley and She Writes Press for providing me with an advance reader copy for review.