A review by _chrstnlvly
I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

dark emotional sad fast-paced

5.0

I’ve been wanting to read I’m Glad My Mom Died since it was released, but I didn’t have the courage to. At that point, I hadn’t been to therapy yet, and I was still avoiding confronting my traumatic experiences head-on. One therapy session later, I finally gave in and listened to the audiobook. 

In this memoir, Jennette McCardy shares her painful journey growing up with an emotionally abusive, controlling mother who pushed her into acting, monitored every aspect of her life, and instilled deep-seated guilt and fear in her. She writes about the impact of this abuse on her mental health, including struggles with eating disorders, unhealthy relationships, and the long road to reclaiming her identity after her mother’s death. 

I admit: this book triggered a lot for me. Jennette’s mom was like mine when it came to emotional abuse - the manipulation, the guilt, the control. But I’m at a point now where I’m allowing myself to feel everything, knowing that’s the only way to heal. I read this book at the right time. 

When I was almost done, I went on Reddit to see what others thought, and it broke my heart how many people related to Jennette’s story - just like I did. But at the same time, it was oddly comforting to know that I’m not alone. 

I admire Jennette for her courage to share her truth. In a twisted way, it was refreshing to see my experiences reflected in someone else’s story. Jennette, you’re not alone either. And as my therapist has reminded me over and over: YOU ARE NOW SAFE. 
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