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A review by justfoxie
Maggie and Me by Damian Barr
3.0
Ok so I’ve been trying to figure out why I felt merely lukewarm about this book and I think it’s because I read it pretty close in time to We Were Always Here, which I think is a better example of this genre and one where it explores bigger and more relevant themes to modern queerness.
A good portion of not enjoying this book is largely my bias - I don’t enjoy reading stories or memoirs featuring abuse as device to shock or merely elicit sympathy. Is it horrible what the author went through? Absolutely. Should any child have to experience that? Never. Do I need to read another book about it without any other redeeming features? No. No I really don’t.
I gave this three stars instead of two since I recognise the writing skill and the bravery in putting this experience out in the world. But really if you want to read a transformation memoir read We Were Always Here instead.
A good portion of not enjoying this book is largely my bias - I don’t enjoy reading stories or memoirs featuring abuse as device to shock or merely elicit sympathy. Is it horrible what the author went through? Absolutely. Should any child have to experience that? Never. Do I need to read another book about it without any other redeeming features? No. No I really don’t.
I gave this three stars instead of two since I recognise the writing skill and the bravery in putting this experience out in the world. But really if you want to read a transformation memoir read We Were Always Here instead.