Scan barcode
A review by aeahb2
Fierce: How Competing for Myself Changed Everything by Aly Raisman
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.