I’M GLAD MY MUM DIED

By: Adebisi Amori

A shocking title, a more mind-boggling story. For most Genz’s, Jennette McCurdy was a presence that graced our TVs on nickelodeon shows. From iCarly to Sam and Cat. These TV shows were staples for many of us while growing up.

McCurdy puts to paper her story, taking readers on a ride through multilayers of what we could not see beyond the many laughs, friendship bonds of our beloved sitcoms.

While a very unusual title for a book, the sentiment behind the title is very easily understood when readers begin flipping through the pages of the book.

I'm glad my mum died chronicles the toxic relationship between Jennette and her mum, as well as the eating disorder and mental pressure caused by her mum's forceful desire to see her daughter achieve her own dream, a dream she could never make a reality.

“My mother emotionally, physically and mentally abused me in ways that will forever impact me.”

In this book, McCurdy skillfully writes about her journey as a child actor, the demands of acting, the pressure that came with the fame of iCarly’s success - among others. The book further discusses the impact her childhood had on her, even in adulthood.

Her prowess as a writer shines through in narrating her struggles on sexual harassment while on set and body image.

“I was conditioned to believe any boundary I wanted was a betrayal of her, so I stayed silent.”

While she may have stayed silent for many years, her writing is bold. She reclaims her voice in the pages of these books, masterfully injecting her signature humour in a story that ordinarily would evoke little laughter.

Despite the fact that this is a heavy read, one is very easily immersed in it.

The book deals with triggering topics, particularly eating disorders so readers should take care. All in all, this memoir was a remarkable debut.

Verdict: 5 out of 5 stars.