I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

Rating: ★★★★★

Dates Read: 8/13/2022 - 8/13/2022

TW: anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, dieting, sexual abuse, rape, child abuse, religious trauma, drugs and alcohol abuse, and grooming.

    A heartbreaking and hilarious memoir by iCarly and Sam & Cat star Jennette McCurdy about her struggles as a former child actor—including eating disorders, addiction, and a complicated relationship with her overbearing mother—and how she retook control of her life.

    This was an incredibly revealing and raw memoir that left me in awe. I didn't know much about Jennette McCurdy before picking up this book, but the title intrigued me, and I'm so glad I read it. In just a few hours, I was completely absorbed in her story, unable to put it down.

    This memoir sheds light on the dark side of Hollywood, especially when it comes to child actors. Jennette's journey from her first acting audition at six years old to her rise to fame on Nickelodeon's "iCarly" and "Sam & Cat" alongside Ariana Grande is both fascinating and heartbreaking. Behind the laughter she brought to millions, she was struggling with anxiety, shame, and self-loathing, battling eating disorders, addiction, and unhealthy relationships.

    The exploration of Jennette's relationship with her mother is truly eye-opening. It's a brutally honest portrayal of a toxic mother-daughter bond that was exploitative and manipulative. The title itself, "I'm Glad My Mom Died," may seem provocative, but once you delve into the book, you'll understand the significance behind it and the immense pain Jennette endured.

    Reading about her journey through the "before" and "after" sections, divided by her mother's death, was an emotional rollercoaster. Jennette's skillful writing conveyed the haunting feeling her mother's presence left, even after she was gone. It's clear that this memoir comes straight from Jennette's heart, and her talent as a writer shines through effortlessly. It's an honest and graphic account of her pain, but also a testament to the strength and resilience she found during her recovery.

    It was touching to learn that, despite her success in acting, Jennette's true passion lies in writing. Her unique writing style and genuine talent are evident throughout the book. It's clear that writing is her calling, and I hope she continues to pursue it in the future.