If you know me, you know I like to read. I’m drawn to memoirs and biographies mostly, however, I will read a good novel if it is recommended. Over the past two years, I’ve set up a Goodreads challenge, with their app and have read many books that have stories of resilience and compassion. This post contains a list of books that I’ve enjoyed and recommended reading for you.
What We Will Become by Mimi Lemay
I will confidently say that this is my favourite book in 2019. Mimi Lemay beautifully shares her memoir of her child who is transgender – female to male. The story takes you through his journey of self-discovery while navigating his change. Also, readers are taken through his experience of being raised in an ultra-Orthodox Jewish home, and ultimately leaving that community.
I Might Regret This by Abbi Jacobson
One of my favourite comedians, Abbi Jacobson of the hit show Broad City, wrote this book as she drove across America. She shares her experience of navigating her sexuality, heartbreak, and her solo trip across the country. I suggest this book gets added to your list.
Life Will Be the Death of Me by Chelsea Handler
This isn’t the first time I’m talking about Chelsea Handler on this blog, as I’ve also recommended her podcast in the past. In this book, Chelsea openly and vulnerably shares her experience of processing loss, experiencing grief and navigating her mental health experience. I would recommend listening to the audiobook as you can hear the raw, emotional experience in her voice.
By Chance Alone by Max Eisen
Max Eisen, a holocaust survivor, writes about his experience in Auschwitz-Birkenau as a 15-year-old boy. This is a very powerful story of resilience and survival.
Beautiful Boy by David Sheff
Popularized by the movie with Steve Carrell and Timothy Chalamet, Beautiful Boy is a memoir by David Sheff, father of Nic who struggled from a young age with addiction. David openly shares his experience with supporting his son through recovery and relapsing. Nic Sheff has since become clean and has also written memoirs of his own (Tweak is just one of a few).
I’m always looking for more book recommendations. What are some other books that highlight stories of resilience? Comment below.
Are you ready to share your story of RESILIENCE? You can do that HERE and thank you for being brave and sharing your journey.
Written by Alana Kaplan, Project Manager for the I Am Resilient Project.