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youngthespian42's review against another edition
4.0
This book was so good. While I do note have a lot of personal experience with institutional racism I do struggle with eating and my weight and the way it is written about makes me feel so seen. The writing is beautiful. The sharing is shockingly personal. Such a raw and personal portrait of the human experience.
michiedorn's review against another edition
5.0
Heartbreaking and painful, but also absolutely amazing. I loved it so much.
ashablue's review against another edition
5.0
Beautiful. Gut-wrenching. Sublime. Difficult. Rarely is something both a page turner and so very emotionally difficult to read at the same time. My clumsy review could never do it justice so I will just say I recommend it. A lot.
kayleigh214's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
4.0
jr2234's review against another edition
4.0
This book was exceptionally written in a stripped down and honest way. Laymon writes candidly about his experiences of being in a large body, his mom’s gambling addiction, his navigation through academia, his relationship with his grandmother, and so many more topics. The recounting of Laymon’s life experiences has a way of sticking with you and burrowing into your brain and psyche. Deeply reflective and heavy. Could be a wonderful pick for deeper discussions in a group with the right individuals.
obvious_lia's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
5.0
Laymon writes about the anti blackness of life in America under white supremacist capitalist patriarchy. He tells us of violence done to bodies, whether by systems, self, or those who love us most. I felt seen in his relationships with food, family, and addiction. I was altered by his words on teaching, writing, and revision. Uniquely compelling and emotional. I didn't have time to stop reading and cry, I had to keep going. Deep gratitude for this book; I can see why it's one of my partner's favorites.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body shaming, Fatphobia, Racial slurs, Child abuse, Eating disorder, Physical abuse, Self harm, Suicidal thoughts, Addiction, and Racism
Minor: Suicidal thoughts, Islamophobia, Grief, Sexual violence, Alcoholism, Gun violence, Police brutality, and Alcohol