4.5 rounded up

I haven’t read a book this fast in ages. I could not put this book down. Sarah’s story and writing is captivating, wholehearted, and inspiring, to say the least. I cried many tears and felt many emotions along the way. I encourage all humans to read this.

Such a powerful and poignant memoir.

Sarah McBride is a pillar of strength and her resilience in the face of adversity is inspiring. She doesn't dress up her writing in fancy prose or adjectives because her life experiences speak for themselves.

In 2016, Sarah was the first openly transgender woman to speak at a major national political convention but she had been an activist powerhouse for so many years. As a teenager she worked with Illinois state governor Jack Markell and Beau Biden on both of their campaigns for election. She interned at The White House and lobbied for the rights of transgender people in her home state of Delaware.

The emotional center of the book revolves around Sarah's love story with Andy, her boyfriend and later husband. Andy develops cancer and I felt myself holding my arms to my chest as I read their struggle through their pages. It's harrowing and raw and just utterly heartbreaking.

The foreword is written by Joe Biden, but I recommend reading it again once you have finished because the words make even more of an emotional impact.