The Review Studio

Reviews of books, movies, plays and artwork.

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Long Legs - Oz Perkins

Image taken from YouTube

Rating: 5/5

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

'Long Legs', directed by Oz Perkins, is nothing short of a cinematic triumph that exemplifies the heights horror can reach when crafted with care, intelligence, and a deep understanding of the genre's psychological roots. From the opening scene, both Perkins and Nicolas Cage transported me into a world that is hauntingly beautiful yet profoundly disturbing, a place where every shadow seems to hide a dark secret and every sound could be a prelude to something terrifying.

What made 'Long Legs' truly exceptional for me was its ability to sustain an atmosphere of palpable dread without ever feeling contrived or forced. Perkins built tension through the subtlety of his direction, allowing the horror to creep up on me gradually, embedding itself in my psyche. The pacing is deliberately slow, but this is a major strength, not a weakness. It allowed me to become fully immersed in the film's world, to absorb every nuance and detail, and to feel the weight of the suspense as it tightened like a noose.

The cinematography in 'Long Legs' is simply breathtaking. Each shot is composed with an artist's eye, creating visuals that are as unsettling as they are beautiful. The use of shadow and light is particularly effective, casting an eerie, dreamlike quality over the entire film. The result is a visual experience that is as memorable as the story itself, one that lingered in my mind, long after the movie ended.

The performances in 'Long Legs' are excellent, with each actor and actress bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. The characters are complex and well-developed, and the cast delivers their lines with a sense of quiet intensity that perfectly complements the film's mood. These are not just villains or victims-they are fully realised individuals with their own desires, fears, and secrets, which makes the horror all the more effective.

Perkins' script is another standout aspect of the movie. The dialogue is sparse but when they speak, it is loaded with meaning, often leaving more unsaid than said, only adding to the film's unsettling atmosphere. The plot is intricate and layered, with twists that kept me guessing up until the very end. But what truly sets the script apart is its thematic depth. 'Long Legs' is not just a horror movie; it is a meditation on loneliness, fear, and the human condition, exploring how our darkest impulses can be both our greatest weakness and our most powerful motivator.

The sound design and score further enhance the film's eerie atmosphere. The music is haunting yet angelic, perfectly enhancing the tension at key moments. The sound effects are equally effective, adding an extra layer of unease to the already thick sense of dread, which had me curling up in my seat.

To conclude, 'Long Legs' is a masterpiece of modern horror that transcends the genre to become something truly special. Oz Perkins has made a story that is as intellectually stimulating as it is terrifying, a film that challenged me to think as much as it dared me to feel. It is a slow-burn horror that rewarded my patience with a payoff that is both psychologically and emotionally satisfying. For anyone who appreciates horror with artistry, depth, and atmosphere, 'Long Legs' is a must-see!

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The Help - Kathryn Stockett

Image taken from Business Insider

Rating: 5/5

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️

Stockett's 'The Help' is an unbelievable novel that gripped me from the very first page and would not let me go. Set against the backdrop of 1960s Mississippi (Jackson specifically), this novel dives deep into the complexities of class, race, and the unbreakable bonds of humanity.

Stockett's writing is nothing short of exquisite. She weaves together the narratives of three different yet equally brilliant women - Skeeter, a young white journalist who is determined to tell the truth with grace, integrity, and authenticity; Aibileen, a compassionate and wise black maid and, finally, Minnie, her fiery and courageous friend. Each character has a distinct and richly developed voice, which drew me into their world with an emotionally powerful pull.

The book is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. It challenged me to confront the uncomfortable yet real truths about racism and the inequalities that have plagued society for generations, and are unfortunately still around today. Yet, it also offered me hope, showing how friendship, courage, and love can spark change even in the darkest of times.

What truly sets 'The Help' apart for me is its ability to evoke such a wide range of emotions from me - anger at the injustices depicted, admiration for the strength of the characters, and deep empathy for their struggles. This is a story that lingered in my mind and heart long after I had finished reading.

In summary, 'The Help' is definitely a must-read. Stockett has crafted a novel that is not only a captivating story but also an important social commentary. It is a book that will stay with you, provoke deep thought, and inspire you to look at the world through a more empathetic lens.

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The Thornthwaite Inheritance - Gareth P.Jones

Image taken from Isha's Website

Rating: 4.3/5

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

"The Thornthwaite Inheritance" written by Gareth P. Jones is a delightfully dark humorous mystery that captivated me from the first page, at the age of twelve. The story surrounds twins Lorelli and Ovid Thornthwaite, who live in mansion laden with traps and secrets. Since childhood, they have been caught in a strange and deadly game of trying to kill each other - a bizarre tradition rooted in their family's twisted heritage.

Jones blends elements of mystery, gothic fiction, and dark comedy, creating an atmosphere that is equally eerie and entertaining. The Thornthwaite mansion becomes a character itself, with its booby traps, hidden passages, and the ever-present sense of danger. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, which kept me on edge throughout.

The characters if Lorelli and Ovid are richly developed, with their sibling rivalry evolving into a complex relationship that adds depth to the narrative. Their interactions are laced with wit and dark humour, making their journey from enemies to allies both engaging and moving.

Jones' writing is crisp and clever, with a fast-paced account that balances suspense and humour. The book also touches on themes of trust, family, and the possibility of redemption, making it more than just a quirky mystery.

Overall, "The Thornthwaite Inheritance" is a thoroughly enjoyable red, perfect for fans of darkly comedic mysteries and gothic tales. Jones has crafted a unique and memorable story that left me anticipating each twist and revelation.

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The Ridiculous 6 - Frank Coraci

Image taken from Netflix

Rating: 0 / 5

"The Ridiculous 6" is a film that falls squarely into the category of Adam Sandler's brand of humor, which can be an acquired taste for some and a complete turn-off for others. Released on Netflix in 2015, this Western comedy attempts to blend slapstick humor with a wild west backdrop, and the result is, unfortunately, a film that misses the mark on almost every level.

First and foremost, the film's plot is paper-thin and filled with tired clichés. It follows Tommy "White Knife" Stockburn (played by Sandler), a white man raised by Native Americans who embarks on a journey to rescue his long-lost outlaw father and, in the process, finds himself tangled up with his five half-brothers, each embodying a different stereotype. This film seems to revel in its lack of originality, recycling jokes and gags that have been done to death in countless other comedies.

One of the most glaring issues with "The Ridiculous 6" is its reliance on offensive humor. The film is rife with racial and cultural stereotypes, and it often feels like it's trying to shock and offend the audience for cheap laughs. The portrayal of Native American characters is particularly problematic, with characters named things like "Beaver Breath" and "Never Wears Bra" that serve no purpose other than to perpetuate harmful stereotypes.

The performances in the film are, for the most part, lackluster. Sandler himself seems disinterested in the material, sleepwalking through his role as the lead. The supporting cast, which includes actors like Terry Crews, Taylor Lautner, and Rob Schneider, doesn't fare much better. It's clear that many of them were simply cashing in a paycheck rather than delivering genuine comedic performances.

The film's attempts at humor often fall flat, relying on juvenile and crass jokes that feel out of place in a Western setting. There are moments of physical comedy that might appeal to some, but they are few and far between. The overall tone of the film is inconsistent, veering between slapstick humor and moments of attempted sentimentality, creating a jarring viewing experience.

Visually, "The Ridiculous 6" fails to capture the grandeur and beauty of the Western landscape. The cinematography and production design lack the authenticity and attention to detail that would have made the setting come alive. It feels like a missed opportunity to create a visually stunning Western comedy.

In conclusion, "The Ridiculous 6" is a film that relies on offensive humor, tired clichés, and lackluster performances. While it may find an audience among die-hard Adam Sandler fans or those with a penchant for lowbrow humor, it ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying comedic experience. It's a film that feels like a missed opportunity to create a genuinely funny and original Western comedy, and instead, it settles for mediocrity and offensiveness.

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Mystic River - Clint Eastwood

Image taken from Medium

Rating: 4.9 / 5

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"Mystic River" directed by Clint Eastwood, is a thought-provoking and compelling film that explores difficult themes such as trauma, relationships, and the haunting impact of a tragic childhood incident. This movie is a masterclass in storytelling and character development, offering a unique blend of drama, mystery, and psychological tension that kept me on edge from start to finish.

One of the stand-out elements is its exceptional cast. Sean Penn delivers a powerhouse performance as Jimmy Markunm a character consumed by grief and tormented by his past. His portrayal is both emotionally charged and riveting, earning him a well-deserved Academy Award for Best Actor. Tim Robbins, who plays Dave Boyle, is equally as brilliant, capturing the essence of a man plagued by childhood trauma. The chemistry between Robbins and Penn is palpable and tense, adding authenticity to the characters' complex relationship.

The film's supporting cast is similarly impressive, with Kevin Bacon as Sean Devine, the childhood friend turned detective who becomes entangled in the tragedy, and Marcia Gay Harden as Dave's wife, Celeste, who grapples with her husband's inner demons. These actors contribute significantly to the film's emotional resonance and overall impact.

Clint Eastwood's direction is impeccable, as he skilfully navigates the dark gritty streets of Boston, setting the stage for a narrative that explores the dark underbelly of human nature. The film's cinematography by Tom Stern is evocative capturing the moody atmosphere of the neighbourhood and enhancing the overall sense of tension and unease.

Dennis Lehane's source material, on which the film is based, is a masterful work of fiction and screenwriter Brian Helgeland does justice to the deeply flawed characters and intricate plot. The movie's narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion that kept me engaged as the storyline weaved together past and present events, slowly revealing the lies and secrets that have plagued these characters for decades.

At its core, "Mystic River" is a meditation on the long-lasting consequences of childhood trauma and the choices we make as adults in an attempt to cope with our past. It raises thought-provoking questions about justice, morality, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. The film does not offer easy answers but encouraged me to ponder the complexities of human nature and the results of our actions.

While "Mystic River" is undoubtedly a cinematic masterpiece, it is not without its flaws. The pacing did slow down at times, as the film took its time to delve into the character's motivations and emotions. As well as this, the subject matter is undeniably heavy and dark, making it a challenging watch.

In essence, "Mystic River" is a gem that stands out as one of Clint Eastwood's finest directorial masterpieces. The intricate storytelling, powerful performance, and exploration of profound themes make it a must-see for those who appreciate stimulating and emotionally resonant cinema. While it is definitely not suitable for all ages due to the intense subjects discussed, those who are willing to engage with its challenging narrative with be rewarded with a haunting yet unforgettable cinematic experience.

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Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban - J.K. Rowling

Image taken from Jactionary

Rating: 5 / 5

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" is a masterpiece that stands out as my favourite entry in the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. This third instalment takes the wizarding world to new heights, delivering an enchanting blend of mystery, magic, and character development that captivated me instantly.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is how it effortlessly evolved from the more childish beginning of "Philosopher's Stone" into a darker and more complex narrative. The story takes a much more mature turn, delving into themes of the past, friendship, and identity, which made it relatable and engaging to read this book growing up alongside Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

Rowling's world-building continued to amaze me, with the introduction of the Marauder's Mapa and new creatures such as Hippogriffs, which added intrigue and depth to the Hogwarts setting. The expansion of the wizarding world with locations like the Shrieking Shack and Hogsmeade added layers to the story, which made the universe feel more lived-in and expansive.

The character development in this novel is nothing short of extraordinary. Harry, Ron, and Hermione all face growth and personal challenges, and their evolving friendship is a central theme. Harry's struggle to come to terms with his history and identity is particularly relatable and poignant, making him a more sympathetic and well-rounded character.

One of the most memorable and my favourite, aspects of the book is the introduction of Remus Lupin and Sirius Black, two complex and multi-dimensional characters who challenge the preconceived notions of evil and good in the wizarding world. Their presence in the story added ambiguity that elevated the storyline even more.

The plot itself is a thrilling rollercoaster ride, filled with unexpected twists and turns. The mystery surrounding Black's true intentions and the truth about what happened to Harry's parents kept me on the edge of my seat. The revelation about the time-travel element and the Marauder's Map added complexity that further showcased Rowling's storytelling prowess.

Furthermore, "Prisoner of Azkaban" perfectly addressed themes of injustice and the consequences of one's actions, as exemplified by the wrongly accused Sirius Black. It teaches valuable life lessons about forgiveness, empathy, and the importance of looking beyond appearances.

In terms of criticism, it is difficult to find fault with "Prisoner of Azkaban". You could argue that the time-travel angle can be confusing, but it actually adds to the story's complexity and richness. Additionally, while the book is darker than its predecessors, it is precisely this evolution that made it so compelling for me.

In conclusion, "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" successfully takes the series to a new level of maturity while retaining the magical charm that has enchanted me from the beginning. This book is not just a pivotal moment in the Harry Potter series; it is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with me to this day.

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Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets - J.K. Rowling

Image taken from Sunlit Pages

Rating: 5 / 5

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" is an excellent continuation of J.K. Rowling's magical world and an all-time personal favourite of mine. The novel manages to capture the essence of pure adventure and wonder that made the first book so successful. This instalment within the series took me on an exhilarating journey filled with danger, mystery, and character growth.

One of the standout aspects of this book is Rowling's ability to expand on the universe she created in the first story. I delved deeper into the mythology and history of the wizarding world, learning about the Chamber of Secrets and the legend of the Heir of Slytherin. This world-building is both intricate and rich, adding multiple layers of complexity to the story and making it even more immersive. Rowling's vivid descriptions of locations like the Burrow, Diagon Alley, and the Hogwarts Castle made me feel as though I was actually there, experiencing the magic alongside the Golden Trio.

The characters continue to shine through in this book. Harry, Ron, and Hermione's friendship deepened as they face new challenges. It is heartwarming to see their unwavering loyalty, and their support is one of the driving forces behind the series. As well as this, new characters such as Gilderoy Lockhart and Dobby the House-elf bring intrigue and humour to the story.

The plot of "Chamber of Secrets" is tightly woven with a compelling mystery at its core. The question of who, or most likely what is responsible for the attacks on Muggle-born students kept me engaged and guessing until the very end. Rowling's ability to craft intricate plots with unexpected twists is on full display.

Furthermore, this book explores important themes like the danger of believing stereotypes and prejudice. The notion of "Muggle-borne" being impure is reminiscent of real-world discrimination, and it serves as a powerful allegory for the consequences of intolerance and hatred.

It is worth mentioning, however, that I did find the pacing slower in the middle of the book when compared to the high-adrenaline moments of the beginning and end. Nevertheless, the slower pace did allow for needed character development and the exploration of essential themes.

To conclude, "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" is a literary gem that successfully builds upon the foundation laid in the first novel, offering a deeper dive into the characters, magical world, and thrilling mystery. While it may have a few minor pacing issues, its themes of bravery, friendship, and the battle against prejudice make it a timeless and thought-provoking read. This installment solidifies the series as a classic in the world of literature.

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George Harrison: Behind The Locked Door - Graeme Thomson

Image taken from Spotify

Rating: 5 / 5

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This has to be the definitive George Harrison biography! His life from February 25th 1943 to his passing in November 29th 2001 has been thoroughly documented in the 408 page volume. All notes have been referred to an extensive amount of promising sources from colleagues to family and friends and fellow (well-known) musicians. “Behind Closed Doors” highlights the ups and downs of his private and performing life, while providing us with an emotional connection to the man and his music.

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Biographic: The Beatles - Viv Croot

Image taken from Amazon

Rating: 5 / 5

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

This iconographic book takes readers on an extraordinary journey through the lives and careers of the legendary Fab Four. Providing a captivating blend of visual storytelling and well-researched facts. Author Viv Croot has masterfully crafted a unique biographic experience by combining concise yet insightful text with visually striking illustrations, infographics, and photographs. The result in not only a book that educates but also immerses readers into The Beatles’ world. This eye-catching publication is a delightful tr=ribete to the world’s most iconic band.

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In His Own Write - John Lennon

Image taken from Financial Times

Rating: 4 / 5

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“In His Own Write” by John Lennon is a whimsical and delightful collection of drawings, short stories, and poems that offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative mind of the legendary songwriter and musician. Lennon’s unique sense of humour and wit shine through in these surreal and offbeat tales, which often border on the absurd. While the book may not be a literary masterpiece, it is an enjoyable read for fans of Lennon’s work and anyone interested in the counterculture of the 1960s. It exhibits his talent for wordplay and his ability to craft thought-provoking and imaginative narratives. “In His Own Write” is an eccentric and charming work that captures a slice of Lennon’s artistic genius outside of his musical career.

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Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone - J.K. Rowling

Taken from Metro UK

Rating: 5 / 5

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

"Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" by J.K. Rowling is an extraordinary literary gem that continues to captivate readers of all ages, myself included. Rowling's mastery of storytelling transports us to a world where magic, mystery, and camaraderie blend seamlessly. This book introduces us to the unforgettable and remarkable character of Harry Potter, a young wizard who discovers his true identity and embarks on an awe-inspiring journey at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Rowling's brilliant narrative shines through every page, creating an enchanting and vivid realm that readers long to be a part of. Her descriptive prose paints a detailed portrait of the magical world, from the eccentric shops in Diagon Alley to the awe-inspiring Great Hall of Hogwarts. The characters are beautifully layered, each with their complexities and quirks. Harry, Ron, Hermione and the rest of the personalities come alive, making me root for them while empathising with their struggles.

One of the most amazing aspects of the book is its ability to appeal to a wide range of readers. It is a coming-of-age story that speaks to young readers, who can relate to Harry's journey of the challenges of growing up and the journey of self-discovery. At the same time, adults can appreciate the intricate world-building, the deep layers of narrative, and the exploration of themes like good vs. evil.

The novel's themes of bravery, friendship, and the power of love are some things that are timeless and universal. It teaches us that even in the darkest of times, light can be found. These themes resonate with readers on a profound level and have made "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" more than just a book; it's a cultural phenomenon that has left a mark on literature and popular culture.

My main qualm with the novel is how one-dimensional the character of Draco Malloy initially appears. However, this is a minor aspect and as the series continues, his character develops over time. Another issue I had was the slow pacing in the early chapters as Rowling does take her time to introduce the wizarding world. Again, however, this is just a minor problem.

In conclusion, the book may have some flaws, but they are outweighed by its countless strengths. Rowling's debut novel is a literary phenomenon that has been one of my favourites for about ten years now. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport me to a world of wonder, magic, and profound life. Despite any of my criticisms, this book remains my beloved classic that has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

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The Night She Disappeared- Lisa Jewell

Image taken from BookTrib

Rating: 2.9 / 5

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

"The Night She Disappeared" is a novel that had great potential to be a gripping thriller but ultimately left me with a sense of unfulfilled promise. While it had its moments of suspense, mystery, and intrigue, there were significant flaws that hindered its overall impact.

One of the most notable issues was the narrative structure. The story is told from multiple perspectives and employs a non-linear timeline, a technique often used to create ambiguity and suspense. However, in this case, it felt like a missed opportunity. The shifts between timelines and viewpoints were sometimes confusing, making it challenging to connect with the characters and their motivations. Rather than enhancing the mystery, the approach ended up disrupting the flow of the plot, leaving me feeling disoriented.

Some character developments also fell short of expectations. While I enjoyed the character of Kim, that was the only role I liked. Whilst other characters had the potential to be intriguing, many of their actions appeared contrived to serve the plot rather than arising naturally from their personalities or motivations. Tallulah, the central character whose disappearance drives the story, remained frustratingly enigmatic. Her story seemed to be more about the people around her than her and this lack of insight into her character made it difficult to empathise with her plight or become invested in her fate.

Moreover, the pacing of the novel was slightly uneven. It began with a promising hook, but there were stretches in the middle where the story seemed to lose momentum. Despite this, Jewell still managed to keep the tension steady throughout and left me wanting to know what happened to Tullulah.

The plot twists, while abundant, sometimes felt forced and unrealistic. Some revelations seemed to come out of nowhere, straining the boundaries of believability. Most of the plot twists were shocking and needed however some felt like cheap attempts to surprise the reader.

Additionally, the novel's thematic exploration left something to be desired. While it hinted at themes of betrayal, trust, and the consequences of secrets, these themes remained somewhat underdeveloped. The story grazed the surface of these ideas without delving deeply into their complexities or implications.

To conclude, "The Night She Disappeared" was an easy read with a satisfying end, it had much more potential to be a compelling thriller but was marred by its narrative structure, underdeveloped characters, some forced plot twists, and uneven pacing. Nonetheless, it offers a quick mystery read that you want to know how it ends.

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Jack Reacher: Killing Floor- Lee Child

Image taken from CBC

Rating: 4.1 / 5

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Killing Floor is the debut novel of prolific crime writer Lee Child and was originally published in March 1997.

This book introduces us to Jack Reacher, an ex-military man turned drifter, who finds himself in Georgia arrested for murder. Reacher needs to get to the bottom of this mystery and soon delves into the lives of the residents of the small town of Margrave

When beginning the story, it did start quite slowly as it was spent introducing necessary characters important to the plot and unfortunately, a majority of the characters were fairly forgettable and if not, slightly cliche. Nonetheless, the action described in the novel was incredible description and made it impossible to put the book down.

The slowly unravelling plot possesses suspense right up until the last page. What keeps the reader's interest is the type of crimes Child incorporated into the novel: it ranges from kidnapping to murder, all the way to fraud.

Our main character, Jack Reacher, is the narrator of the piece and we get to experience the action through his logical and analytical mind. Probably the most well-known feature of Reacher's thinking is his ability to study the opening scenes of an oncoming fight, he can analyse them in slow motion and is able to win 99% of the time. Child's to-the-point writing gives an extremely clear description of what Reacher is thinking and seeing. It helps the reader paint a perfect picture in their mind. For example, the motel fight sign, Roscoe's door caved in, and the barbershop shaving scene. The in-depth detail even goes as far as to describe the cars perfectly.

My main qualm with the book is the lack of personality to Reacher and no back story for the main character- the main focus seems to just be sex and action when the characters could have been explored a lot more. However, the villains in Killing Floor make up more than enough for the dearth of character development as they are exceedingly evil, making it almost impossible to trust anyone you are reading about.

Lee Child has created a whole world with this book series, and Killing Floor is an excellent gateway to the rest of the books. The characters may not be as detailed as I would have liked, but the excessive detail of scenes more than makes up for that and I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a bit of action.

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I’m Glad My Mom Died- Jeanette McCurdy Review

Image taken from Entertainment Weekly.

Rating: 5 / 5

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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 wants.

Told with refreshing candour and dark humour, I'm Glad My Mom Died is an inspiring story of resilience, independence, and the joy of shampooing your own hair.

McCurdy is probably best known for her role as Sam in the sitcom iCarly. After quitting acting, she turned to writing and created this amazing memoir that paints the real picture of her life as a child celebrity. In the beginning pages, an all-grown-up Jeanette McCurdy is watching her mother in a coma, while witnessing her three brothers whisper to her parent in hopes of waking her. When it’s the author's turn to address her mother, she tells her that her weight is 98 pounds- the goal her mother wanted McCurdy to reach.

This is the first sign of the emotional, physical, and mental abuse McCurdy suffered at the hands of her mother. This tells the reader what book they have signed up to read: a heartbreaking memoir about a woman trying to find a balance between violence and love.

Recently, abused celebrities, such as Paris Hilton, have taken the stand against the physical and mental abuse they endured growing up. This display of honesty shows their vulnerable side and ensures the reader's belief in their statements. 

McCurdy is not stating I WAS ABUSED, she is attempting to navigate the difficulties she went through as a child and if she owes her mother anything. She includes her child-self’s P.O.V. and recounts her thoughts ‘I’m glad mom gets what she wants’, as it was earlier than dealing with the tantrums her mother threw regularly. Another heart-wrenching anecdote is when McCurdy realises she has hit puberty and her breasts are coming in, something which should be avoided to stop weight gain. She asked her mum to ‘stop the boobies coming’, and she helped her with the secrets of losing weight- calorie restriction which turned into a multitude of eating disorders as McCurdy got older. The author has a special talent for putting the reader in the child’s shoes, making them feel and see the whole innocence behind asking for a mother's help. 

The author has taken time to remember the arduous stages of her life and translated that into an understandable text for the reader. This memoir is an absolute triumph and credit to McCurdy and an excellent read that I highly recommend.