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sweetearlgrey's reviews
148 reviews
Strong Female Character by Fern Brady
Strong Female Character is a fantastic read. Fern’s storytelling blends her usual sharp humour with raw, emotional honesty, making for a book that is as engaging as it is deeply moving. While there are plenty of moments that will make you laugh, there are some parts that really hurt.
I also loved learning more about ASD and how different it can look for different people. Fern’s experiences highlight just how flawed our medical systems can be—it didn’t leave me with much hope in that regard. But by sharing her story so openly, I'm sure she will help many autistic women finally get diagnosed and get the support they need.
Beyond that, I really appreciated her discussions on sex work and class. Fern has already lived a very interesting life and has a lot to say, so I'm looking forward to her stand-up and future writing endeavours.
I also loved learning more about ASD and how different it can look for different people. Fern’s experiences highlight just how flawed our medical systems can be—it didn’t leave me with much hope in that regard. But by sharing her story so openly, I'm sure she will help many autistic women finally get diagnosed and get the support they need.
Beyond that, I really appreciated her discussions on sex work and class. Fern has already lived a very interesting life and has a lot to say, so I'm looking forward to her stand-up and future writing endeavours.
I'm Sorry You Feel That Way by Rebecca Wait
emotional
4.5
God, I love a character-driven book, and this is exactly that. But that also means it can be unbearable at times, as much of the story revolves around constant miscommunication between the characters. That said, it’s incredibly well done—their flaws and struggles make them feel all the more real. It’s deeply emotional and even made me tear up at times. An exhilarating read for anyone who enjoys exploring complex emotional dynamics.
Sovietistan by Erika Fatland
5.0
In Sovietistan, Erika Fatland combines her own travel experiences with historical accounts to create a fascinating and immersive book. Her personal stories bring the places and people to life, making the history feel immediate and relevant.
Most importantly, she humanizes the people she meets. I loved reading about the locals who welcomed her into their homes and lives, sharing their stories, struggles, and traditions. Her ability to connect with them—and their openness in return—made this book feel deeply personal and moving.
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes by Caitlin Doughty
4.5
I had never heard of Caitlin Doughty or her channel before, but I am definitely following her work from now on. This book offers a fascinating glimpse into the funeral industry, an area I had no prior contact with or knowledge of. Caitlin's voice shines throughout, perfectly blending macabre humour with profound reflections on death—and how weird we are about it in general. Read it. You won't regret it.
The Science of Beauty: Debunk the Myths and Discover What Goes Into Your Beauty Routine by Michelle Wong
informative
This is a well-researched and accessible book on all things skincare. Having watched Michelle’s channel before, there wasn’t much here that surprised me. It’s very much a Beauty 101, but it does an excellent job of dispelling the many myths that are so prevalent online.
Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton
Rating someone’s life story feels strange, so I’ve decided to forgo assigning a star rating.
Admittedly, I picked this book up mainly because of its quirky title and my recent interest in exploring other people’s experiences with love after realising I might be aromantic, so any expectations I had were probably misplaced. That said, I appreciate Dolly’s openness and vulnerability in sharing her story, but there simply wasn't much for me to get out of it.
Admittedly, I picked this book up mainly because of its quirky title and my recent interest in exploring other people’s experiences with love after realising I might be aromantic, so any expectations I had were probably misplaced. That said, I appreciate Dolly’s openness and vulnerability in sharing her story, but there simply wasn't much for me to get out of it.
Ghosts of the Tsunami: Death and Life in Japan by Richard Lloyd Parry
The insight into the political climate surrounding the tsunami, the pitfalls of Japanese authorities, and the society’s response was particularly interesting. What is most terrifying, though, is that despite the country’s preparedness, lives will still be lost in future disasters. This made me consider what it’s like to live under the constant threat of natural disaster, with the possibility of losing loved ones, a home you spent a lifetime making your own, or even your own life. It reminded me to be grateful for what I have.
4.5
This was as horrifying as it was incredible. A powerful retelling of one of the most devastating natural disasters in recent decades, coupled with personal accounts from survivors. Some scenes are truly disturbing — please take care to read the content warnings.
The insight into the political climate surrounding the tsunami, the pitfalls of Japanese authorities, and the society’s response was particularly interesting. What is most terrifying, though, is that despite the country’s preparedness, lives will still be lost in future disasters. This made me consider what it’s like to live under the constant threat of natural disaster, with the possibility of losing loved ones, a home you spent a lifetime making your own, or even your own life. It reminded me to be grateful for what I have.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Death, Medical content, Grief, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Gore