Blog Archives
The Significance of Curly Hair: A Loving Memoir of Life and Loss
The Significance of Curly Hair: A Loving Memoir of Life and Loss, by Kara Zajac, is an intimate and emotionally rich memoir that delves into the author’s family history, filled with poignant moments of grief, reflection, and self-discovery. At the heart of this memoir is Zajac’s deep bond with her grandmother, Gram, and the flood of memories and revelations that surface after her passing. As Zajac reflects on her grandmother’s life, the complexities of family, and her own process of healing, the story weaves together a beautiful and thoughtful narrative about love, loss, and legacy.
What really struck me was the depth of Zajac’s emotional connection with her grandmother. She brings Gram to life through vivid, heartfelt memories—whether it’s tender moments from childhood or the gut-wrenching reality of saying goodbye. One moment that resonated with me was the sheer vulnerability Kara shows when describing the whirlwind of emotions after learning Gram was dying. Her raw honesty is palpable, and it’s that openness that makes the book so relatable to anyone who has faced the loss of a loved one. You can almost feel her pain leap off the page, making her journey all the more profound. Zajac’s ability to use everyday objects to tell a much larger story also stands out. Simple things like old photographs, carefully tucked-away mementos, and letters between family members serve as keys to unlock hidden stories from Gram’s past. These tangible pieces of her grandmother’s life offer a layered, intimate view of who she was, reminding us of how much we can learn from the possessions left behind. The way Kara reveals her grandmother’s history through these small treasures adds richness and depth to the narrative.
What I loved most, though, was the balance between heartache and humor. There are lighter moments sprinkled throughout the memoir that offer relief from the weight of grief, and they beautifully capture the spirit of a family who, despite their pain, still find ways to laugh together. The laughter, alongside the sorrow, gives the book a sense of wholeness, an honest portrayal of how we remember those we love. Kara effortlessly brings to life the warmth and closeness that her family shares, even in the face of deep sadness.
The Significance of Curly Hair is a tender, reflective exploration of family, memory, and the complex emotions that come with loss. Kara Zajac has written a memoir that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. I’d recommend it to anyone who has lost someone they love or is interested in the way family legacies shape who we are. It’s the kind of book that lingers with you long after you’ve closed the final page, and it’s perfect for readers who appreciate a heartfelt, reflective narrative about the power of love and memory.
Pages: 402 | ASIN : B0D2FBXRXR
The Importance of Perspectives
You Are Allowed: A Story of Finding Where You Belong, Not Where You Began shares your story of searching for your birth mom while exploring your own emotions and memories of growing up and how it has impacted your personal identity. Why was this an important book for you to write?
It was an incredibly important book to write because I was feeling lost and without a true sense of belonging. Living that way, without roots or a solid foundation, is incredibly difficult. Writing this book helped me process those feelings and begin to find my own place in the world. Ultimately, I found my sense of belonging within the pages of my memoir—within myself.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
I think the whole book was difficult to write. Initially, I started writing from the perspective of a victim—being adopted made me feel like I had been abandoned. But as I wrote, the manuscript led me to face some of the hardest stories of my life. When I began, I never imagined I would share such intimate parts of my journey, but doing so allowed me to forgive and release. By the time I finished, I was grateful for my adoption. I let go of judgment and found internal peace and freedom.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
One of the most important ideas I wanted to share is the importance of perspectives. We all see things differently, and I believe this is an opportunity for connection between people. I’m sure my parents, my birth mom, and my sister all have very different views of what really happened with my adoption. But that’s the beauty and freedom that writing gives us—space to explore our own perspectives. Another key theme for me was the complexity of the relationship between a mother and her daughter, particularly being both a daughter and a mother myself. That dual experience really shaped my writing.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
I hope readers understand that they have the power to reflect on their own lives, release past hurts, and experience rebirth. But most importantly, I want them to take away that it’s essential to forgive themselves first, love themselves first, and respect themselves first.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Freegiftfromodelia | Amazon
Esther, a young woman living in a kibbutz in the south of Israel, undertakes a journey to find her biological mother who abandoned her at birth in Paris. She is fueled with the belief that reuniting with her birth mother will provide the answers she’s been searching for and will fill the void she’s been feeling her entire life.
In careful and precise writing, You ARE Allowed takes the reader through turbulent pieces of Esther’s life journey: her childhood in France, a relationship with an Israeli woman that exposes her to a world of crime and danger, an unplanned pregnancy, and a seemingly routine life in Israel filled with secrets and old wounds.
Encouragement and Solidarity
My Mother Only Had Me for the Check shares your story of survival and overcoming a childhood of abuse and neglect to become the strong woman you are today. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Writing this book was important because I wanted other women to know they were not alone in their struggles. Life can be incredibly tough, and sometimes, it feels like the challenges we face are insurmountable. But we have the strength to make it through no matter what life throws at us.
In sharing my struggles, I wanted to speak from a place of love and lived experience. I’ve been there, and I understand how it feels to be overwhelmed and underestimated. By opening up about my journey, I hope to offer encouragement and solidarity to other women who might feel isolated, defeated, and unloved.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
The hardest thing for me to write about was being raped by my uncle. For years, I carried the shame and guilt of that day. It felt like a dark cloud, constantly hovering over me, shadowing every moment of my life. I struggled for years, blaming myself for that incident, feeling like maybe if I had fought harder or screamed louder, then perhaps I could have changed my circumstances. But that’s the cruel trick of trauma—it distorts reality and makes you believe lies about yourself.
I was just a child, innocent and trusting, unable to comprehend the betrayal of someone who was supposed to protect and care for me. I remember the confusion, the fear, and the overwhelming sense of powerlessness. In the years that followed, those feelings morphed into a deep-seated guilt. I thought I was at fault, that somehow, I had invited or deserved what happened. I became my harshest critic, convinced that I was weak and unworthy.
It took decades for me to unpack the trauma of that day. Writing about this part of my life was excruciating but I knew it was necessary. I discovered the power of self-compassion. I forgave myself for all the times I thought I should have done more. I realized that a child should never have to fight or scream to be safe. The responsibility lay solely with my uncle, and his choices led to that dark day, not mine. Sharing that chapter was a way to reclaim my voice and break the silence that had imprisoned me for so long. I also hoped that other women who had suffered similar experiences might find solace in knowing they were not alone.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
One of the main ideas I’ve been passionate about sharing is encouraging women to embrace the importance of therapy.
As women, we often juggle countless roles—mothers, daughters, sisters, friends, professionals, and so much more. With all these responsibilities, putting our needs on the back burner is easy. But we need to take care of ourselves, too. And sometimes, taking care of ourselves means seeking help when we need it.
For decades, I used to think therapy was only for people facing a major crisis. But I’ve learned that therapy can benefit everyone. It’s a safe space where you can talk about anything without judgment. It’s a place to unpack your feelings, process your experiences, and develop healthier ways to cope with life’s challenges and trauma. I know the idea of going to therapy can be daunting, and it can feel vulnerable to admit we need help. But I’ve found that being open and sharing my traumatic experiences with my psychologist has helped me tremendously, and I hope it also encourages other women to seek the support they need.
Therapy isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of strength and self-awareness. It’s about recognizing that we all have areas where we can grow and improve. It’s about permitting ourselves to prioritize our mental and emotional well-being.
I encourage women to take that step. Reach out, talk to a therapist, and see how it feels. It might be one of the most empowering decisions you ever make.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
The one thing I hope readers, primarily women, take away from my story is to never give up on hope or themselves.
I want every woman reading this to know you are strong, beautiful, and capable. Your value isn’t determined by anyone else’s opinions or standards. Embrace your unique journey, celebrate your accomplishments, and be gentle with yourself when things don’t go as planned.
Remember, hope is a powerful force. It keeps us moving forward, even when the path is uncertain. So, hold onto it tightly. Believe in yourself, cherish your dreams, and never give up on the beautiful person you have the right to become.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Growing up in a world where safety and love were scarce commodities, she learned to navigate a landscape fraught with pain and uncertainty. Yet, amidst the darkness, she clung to the flicker of hope, determined to carve out a better future for herself.
Through the ups and downs, rejections, and setbacks, she never lost sight of her dreams. With unwavering determination, she pursued her passion for writing, turning her pain into purpose and her struggles into stories. Each word is a testament to her resilience, a defiant declaration that her past or illness would not define her.
Today, her autobiography is a beacon of hope for women who have walked similar paths. Her journey serves as a reminder that no matter how daunting the obstacles may seem, there is always light at the end of the tunnel for those who refuse to give up.
My Mother Only Had Me For The Check
My Mother Only Had Me for the Check by Crystal Bass is a poignant and compelling memoir that explores the author’s journey through childhood abuse, mental health challenges, and the pursuit of her dreams. Crystal Bass’s candid recounting of her experiences with depression and anxiety, borne from a traumatic upbringing, paints a vivid picture of resilience in the face of adversity. Her narrative doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of her life but instead showcases her unwavering determination to build a better future.
The autobiography is structured around a moment of reflection when Bass’s second daughter is born, prompting her to look back on the significant events that have shaped her life. The story unfolds chronologically, interspersed with flashbacks that provide deeper insights into her struggles and triumphs. Bass’s storytelling prowess shines through her vivid and evocative writing style, immersing readers in her world and allowing them to feel her pain and perseverance. One of the standout aspects is Bass’s ability to convey the emotional depth of her experiences. The detailed accounts of her battles with rape, domestic violence, anxiety, and depression are not just tales of suffering but also of survival and hope. Through her honest and heartfelt narrative, Bass becomes a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges, encouraging them to remain passionate about their dreams despite the obstacles. It is important to note that the book contains explicit depictions of mental and physical abuse, which could be triggering for some readers. Despite this, Bass’s courage in sharing her story is nothing short of remarkable. Her strength and resilience serve as an inspiration to women everywhere, reminding them that it is possible to overcome even the darkest of times.
In My Mother Only Had Me for the Check, Crystal Bass has created a powerful testament to hope and resilience. Her memoir is a must-read for those seeking an inspirational story of survival and the relentless pursuit of dreams. This book is especially resonant for women who have faced similar adversities, offering solace and strength through Bass’s extraordinary journey.
Pages: 150 | ASIN : B0CVZ4ZXKD
Delve Deeper Into Relationships
Growing Up, Rocky is a poignant journey through your childhood in rural Australia, revealing the profound impact of family dynamics and life’s tumultuous waves on shaping one’s character and destiny. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I wanted to show the backstory and intimate behind-the-scenes of a prominent, public family. You cannot judge others until you know their full story.
How did your family’s missionary background and rural Australia influence your perspective on life and relationships?
Watching my parents give their time, energy and love to others was inspirational. Later, even though I knew we were loved, I also realised that our family always came second, as an afterthought.
Looking back, what do you believe is the most significant lesson you learned from the challenges and experiences of your youth?
I learned to back myself, and that anything was achievable. I had two hands and a brain, the same as everyone else. How hard can it be?
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
To believe in yourself, be resilient and follow your dream. Delve deeper into relationships with your family. Things are not always as they seem. Perhaps there were reasons for neglect, as my parents also struggled with their own demons of depression and loneliness.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website | Amazon
This is the true story of the youngest daughter of a Sydney couple living at Lockhart River Mission for 9 years, raising their children within an Aboriginal village of five tribes.
Conceived on Cape York, and finally moving to Rockhampton as a young child. A family tragedy in 1971 with the shocking death of brother Chris, two days before a family wedding, sees the upheaval of family life.
Patty feels abandoned and has to educate and raise herself as well as learn to iron a cassock!
Patty brings herself up with her distracted parents, marries young and then flees a violent marriage. Patty dreamed of a bigger life than what was offered in her sleepy country town. Life became a series of ground-breaking adventures, and we follow her turbulent relationships and jobs, learning how to survive.
Share her adventures in this gentle, humorous and insightful early memoir.
My Unexpected Life: Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis
Jennifer Gasner’s memoir, My Unexpected Life: Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis, offers a poignant and insightful portrayal of her life after being diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA) at seventeen. Gasner’s narrative transcends the usual scope of disability literature by delving into the dynamics of her relationships and how others’ actions profoundly affected her life, presenting a multifaceted view of her experiences. The book addresses the complexities Gasner faced in accepting her diminishing physical abilities and seeking fulfillment in her academic and professional endeavors. She confronts the daunting reality of her shortened life expectancy, which adds a layer of urgency and poignancy to her story. Her resilience and unyielding spirit shine through as she encounters societal biases and misconceptions about disability.
A particularly revealing part of the memoir occurs during a routine medical examination. Gasner highlights the discrimination faced by disabled individuals through her interaction with a doctor who prioritizes their convenience over her medical needs. This incident, among others, reflects the broader societal challenges and misunderstandings about disability, including occasional oversights by her otherwise supportive family. Gasner’s writing is characterized by its candidness and emotional depth. She shares her fears, aspirations, and frustrations, allowing readers to connect deeply with her journey. Her successes and eventual acceptance of her life’s new path are marked by a sense of positivity and determination. Central to the memoir is Gasner’s advocacy for accessibility and inclusivity.
My Unexpected Life emphasizes the importance of understanding and accommodating people with disabilities. It invites readers to reflect on their actions and the imperative of cultivating a world that values and embraces the diversity of human experiences. This memoir is not just an account of Gasner’s life; it’s a call to action for societal change and greater empathy toward individuals with disabilities.
Pages: 357 | ASIN : B0CCGDLL16
LITERARY TITAN 