I loved this memoir. It's the story that sometimes gets limited to Jerry Springer, but it's a story that people should know about. There are hidden unI loved this memoir. It's the story that sometimes gets limited to Jerry Springer, but it's a story that people should know about. There are hidden un-talked about aspects of our society and this book just shows that with a little bit of help, someone from the worst of the worst backgrounds can make something of themselves. There should be more about what individuals can do to help people who have the desire to move up, but are struggling with the invisible and sometimes invincible barriers society puts up. It's a hopeful story that shows the strength of what happens to a person who feels as if everyone is against her and in contrast, what she can do when she knows she has people who support her. ...more
Heavy and sad. It was difficult to relate; no matter how messed up parents can be, to publically ignore them was just so rough. Because of that, no maHeavy and sad. It was difficult to relate; no matter how messed up parents can be, to publically ignore them was just so rough. Because of that, no matter how much the narrator needed to get a way to a better environment, it was difficult to empathize with her. ...more
A story that, unfortunately, is becoming more and more familiar. It's a story of an injured girl who becomes a refugee and how she adjusts to a compleA story that, unfortunately, is becoming more and more familiar. It's a story of an injured girl who becomes a refugee and how she adjusts to a completely different society. Too often, and too easily, people are willing to divide human beings as being on one side or another, forgetting that we're all human beings. Sure, some have different view points, but ultimately, what individual doesn't? We're all unique, yet we are all part of what humanity is.
If this book can do anything for its mostly young adult audience is to show just how similar we all are in our hopes, desires, dreams and what it takes to belong, no matter what society. ...more
This book is a perfect summation why Americans have a bad reputation when they travel. Twain is bluntly honest and mocking of Americans and includes hThis book is a perfect summation why Americans have a bad reputation when they travel. Twain is bluntly honest and mocking of Americans and includes himself in his own lampooning of his travels in Europe. Very cringe worthy - but still witty. ...more