I'm Glad My Mom Died
By Jennette McCurdy
- Release Date: 2022-08-09
- Genre: Biographies & Memoirs
Description
* #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER * #1 INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER * MORE THAN 2 MILLION COPIES SOLD!
A heartbreaking and hilarious memoir by iCarly and Sam & Cat star Jennette McCurdy about her struggles as a former child actor—including eating disorders, addiction, and a complicated relationship with her overbearing mother—and how she retook control of her life.
Jennette McCurdy was six years old when she had her first acting audition. Her mother’s dream was for her only daughter to become a star, and Jennette would do anything to make her mother happy. So she went along with what Mom called “calorie restriction,” eating little and weighing herself five times a day. She endured extensive at-home makeovers while Mom chided, “Your eyelashes are invisible, okay? You think Dakota Fanning doesn’t tint hers?” She was even showered by Mom until age sixteen while sharing her diaries, email, and all her income.
In I’m Glad My Mom Died, Jennette recounts all this in unflinching detail—just as she chronicles what happens when the dream finally comes true. Cast in a new Nickelodeon series called iCarly, she is thrust into fame. Though Mom is ecstatic, emailing fan club moderators and getting on a first-name basis with the paparazzi (“Hi Gale!”), Jennette is riddled with anxiety, shame, and self-loathing, which manifest into eating disorders, addiction, and a series of unhealthy relationships. These issues only get worse when, soon after taking the lead in the iCarly spinoff Sam & Cat alongside Ariana Grande, her mother dies of cancer. Finally, after discovering therapy and quitting acting, Jennette embarks on recovery and decides for the first time in her life what she really wants.
Told with refreshing candor and dark humor, I’m Glad My Mom Died is an inspiring story of resilience, independence, and the joy of shampooing your own hair.
Reviews
One word……..yes !
5By 2chainsatthebeach- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"I'm Glad My Mom Died" is an incredibly powerful and emotional memoir that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced the complexities of relationships with narcissistic figures, whether in family or friendship. Jeannette McCurdy’s raw honesty and vulnerability make this book not only a captivating read but also a profound exploration of trauma, identity, and recovery.McCurdy’s writing is refreshingly candid, shedding light on her tumultuous relationship with her mother and the impact it had on her life. Her experiences mirror many of my own, particularly the traits of narcissism that can often go unchecked in family dynamics. It’s both heartbreaking and enlightening to witness her journey as she navigates the pain and confusion of growing up in such an environment.What I admire most is her ability to turn her struggles into strength. McCurdy’s journey through recovery from eating disorders and her decision to leave acting behind are testaments to her resilience. Her transformation is not just about escaping her past but about reclaiming her narrative and finding joy in her own voice. The way she articulates her feelings about her relationships, both familial and platonic, is incredibly relatable. I found myself reflecting on my own experiences with narcissistic friends and family, which made her story even more impactful. McCurdy's honesty serves as a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles, and her triumphs inspire hope for healing and self-acceptance.Overall, "I'm Glad My Mom Died" is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of emotional trauma and the power of self-advocacy. McCurdy’s journey is one of courage, hard work, and ultimately, empowerment. This book left me feeling both uplifted and seen, and I can't recommend it enough!Powerful yet sad
5By R.M. SapphireThank you for being so honest about what you went through, and for showing the raw emotion that many of us are afraid to show ourselves. Your story is definitely worth writing about, inspiring, even. My best way to respond is that I’m so sorry you went through what you did, but I’m glad you found ways to overcome it. Famous or not, you are human like the rest of us and you prove it with every word you’ve written. Well done.I read this in 5 days
5By LisafussAny free moment I had, I read. This was incredible! I have not talked to my mom in over 5 years because she is a narcissist as well and toxic beyond belief. This was healing for me. Just another check mark in my mind on how I am doing the right thing for my family and my sanity. Jeanette, I hope you keep writing girl because you are super talented. Much love 🩷Deep and Powerful
5By MiMi(=I recommend this book to any adult with a mature and open mind. She really did spill her heart in this one. You’re an excellent writer chick. Thank you for sharing your life with us♥️Wow.
4By d.lzdAfter reading this you will look at child actors and mental health in a completely different way. This was a great readAmazing read!
5By Tiajah M.This was such a deeply personal and vivid experience. I’ve loved reading since forever, but this, this was beautifully put. Emotionally well made and very insightful! I wish Jennette the very best and thank you for our childhoods! I’m sorry you were robbed of yours, I hope life is a joyous one for you from here on out.Thought provoking
5By Ghost Egg GuesserReally well written, easy to read.<3
5By jdhdifnriMy heart goes out to Jennette.Loved it
5By theoOo219Absolutely life changingThis was written so beautifully
5By cuevastephThis book was hard to read from a stand point of a mother and yet healing to know that I’m not the only person that struggled with a dysfunctional mother. I truly feel all the things she described about her mother and that intense feeling . Props to her , it’s not that easy to unpack that much trauma . I’m glad I read this book , I needed this in the moment .