Child stars have a certain reputation. They are either super successful when they are young and then burn out as adults. The other narrative is that due to a number of factors, they are able to continue their career and be seen as a performer, not just a child performer.
Former Nickelodeon star, Jennette McCurdy‘s new autobiography/memoir, I’m Glad My Mom Died was published in August. Known for the early aughts television shows iCarly and Sam & Cat, she was pushed into show business by her late mother. Frustrated by their poverty and her own unfulfilled Hollywood dreams, she manipulated Jennette into a career in show business.
From an early age, McCurdy learned to yes to the authority figures around her and put aside her own needs. Developing an eating disorder as a pre-teen, she was convinced that she needed to be a certain weight. It was only after her mom died that was she able to confront the physical and mental health issues that had been thrust upon her.
While listening to this book, I had two reactions. The first was that I wanted to shake her mother and knock some sense into her. I also wanted to hug McCurdy and show her the love that she was sorely missing from her life.
The abuse that was put upon this girl was mouth-dropping. With every chapter, I could feel the level of uncomfortableness rise. By the time the book ended, I could feel the relief flooding through me. Somehow, McCurdy was able to come through all of this with inner strength and confidence is awe-inspiring.
Do I recommend it? Absolutely. I would advocate that it is one of the best books of the year.
I’m Glad My Mom Died is available wherever books are sold.
Writergurlny 