I’m Glad My Mom Died is buzzing around the bookish parts of the Internet and topping the charts. While I’m sure the attention grabbing title fuels some of this, Jennette McCurdy has written a memoir worthy of the praise. McCurdy lays bare the events of her childhood and young adult years, rife with trauma, abuse, and toxic relationships. 

I will admit that I don’t find the title as upsetting as many. I think those who experience abuse have a right to heal and a right to feel, not deny, any feelings towards their abuser. Jennette went through many kinds of emotional and physical abuse, and this memoir makes it clear that the title is not a sentiment she arrived at quickly or easily. It is the result of time, hard work in and out of therapy, and an intense desire to live a healthier, happier life from now on. 

I found this memoir relatable, but that will not be the experience for every reader. I also think Jennette was matter of fact and clear, not cold and distant as some have criticized. Perception is our reality, so I think this is a memoir that will hit it out of the park for many and be a foul ball for others. If you want to hear her recount stories both harrowing and humorous and are ready for very heavy topics, I think this is a wonderful book. I commend people like Jennette McCurdy who are challenging their dysfunctional family relationships and setting the course for a healthy future.