If you’re bothered by the title and not what she’s been through. You’re part of the problem. This book is her her truth and kudos to her.

There have been so many moments where tears welled in my eyes. It gives it so much more meaning and sadness hearing the words come directly from her mouth. I highly recommend this to absolutely anyone who is considering reading or listening to the book. There is so much emotion and so much depth.

Worth the read :) thank you for being so brave, Jenette! Books like this are so very helpful for me.

She is truly able to capture the chaos and the pain that manifests from childhood abuse. Many justify extreme parenting with disregard to the impact it has on the child. Parents can make mistakes because of their own trauma and it needs to be acknowledged

The title could come across as needlessly provocative, but Jennette's story is nuanced. As much as the story can be sad, it is equally funny, colorful and engaging, thanks to great writing and delivery in this audio form, by McCurdy herself.

What a talented writer. Listened over three days while out walking and today…I miss her.

This is the first audiobook I listened to in it's entirety. and in a few days time no less. Jennette's reading pace is quite fast but I enjoyed hearing her delivery and impressions. Her memoir is darkly funny and emotionally impactful. I feel like I really got to know the person behind the character I grew up loving. I was shocked but pleasantly surprised with how different Jennette's personality is from how I imagined her to be. I relate a lot to her humorously cynical view of people and the world. I'm glad she's faced her demons and come out on top. I highly recommend you listen to her story especially if you had not so great parents.

Moving, groundbreaking, painful

This is my favorite memoir this far! It is so raw, relatable, and funny, all at the same time. I cannot recommend this enough! I didn’t want it to end!

Jennette is so brave for speaking out. My whole life surrounding iCarly feels like a lie. She is such a good actor. I had no idea any of that was happening... I'm glad she was able to write a book. It must have been therapeutic to write under her own discretion. I'm sure she has seen it but if not I hope she would watch the Disney movie Tangled. I bet that the mom in Tangled will be eerily familiar.... I noticed you weren't in the commercials I saw for the iCarly Reboot but I never realized what was happening... I respect your decision for not being apart of the new show.

At first , when she was reading it I could only see her as “Sam” which she explained in the book and that’s how so many people viewed her . As her story about her life continued I only see her as Jennette now . Not some girl from I Carly. The way she carried herself her whole life , what she did for her family. Speechless. . I loved it , I wish the book was longer , just because hearing about her life and how she was so open about everything. I pray she is doing better . She is such an inspiration. I hope everyone gets a chance to read this book !

As someone who grew up watching iCarly, this helped me gain a lot more insight into Jennette’s childhood and the challenges she has overcome.

I had to listen all in one sitting, Jeanette is so enrapturing in her storytelling. Absolutely recommend it, listening to the author herself read is such a worthwhile experience I can't imagine anyone else doing it.

I couldn't stop listening. Very honest but so sad. I'm so glad her therapist got through to her realizing she was abused. The only thing was there were no funny parts. I only point that out because it's described as hilarious. Not once did I find anything funny.

Beautifully moving, a story of healing after trauma and loss. Being narrated by Jennette made it that much more powerful. A book I will truly remember.

Incredible. I wish I could write Jennette herself a message, an I’m so proud of you letter. She deserves one.

I didn't know who the author was before (or really even until midway through). I bought the book for the title (we have something in common). But I finished it in two sittings because it was so good & fast paced. Absolutely recommend. Especially if you (like me) had a mentally ill parent and finally, well into adulthood, you realized how bad the abuse was, how weird your childhood was and that you were utterly unprepared for to be a responsible, good person in the world.

The way I was on the edge of my seat the whole time waiting for the Momster to croak...

Jennette McCurdy is such an amazing author and I’m so glad I decided to listen to her audio book instead of reading it myself. Something about listening to her read the story just feels more personal like a friend telling me their life story, rather than reading about the life story of some celebrity I know nothing about. Such a phenomenal story!

Great book for a rainy day

As someone who grew up with a mentally and emotionally abusive mother, and an absent father, she is tremendously brave for facing her past trauma and sharing it with the world.

I loved this memoir! Growing up as an iCarly fan, it kind of hit harder for me knowing everything that she went through during those years of production. Aside from her experience as an actor, this book was very informative on the importance of mother-daughter relationships in the early stages in life. This is an all around good listen for woman of all ages. Honorable mentions; this is read by Jeannette which makes it an even better listen!

Excellent book accurately demonstrating the emotional battles of children raised by abusive narcissistic parents

Amazing book. Truly an important story to listen to and learn from. TRIGGER WARNING for eating disorders

It was okay

Relatable

this broke my heart. deserves a reread.

Highly recommend

I've listened to this book on a different audiobook app and it was really good, loved it!!!!

Loved it

I loved it. Jennette tells her story with honesty, humor, and a (newfound?) level of love and respect for herself. I was engaged throughout the whole book, and was so proud of her by the end.

a very powerful read

great and interesting book about her life.

Excellent book. Jennette’s story is absolutely fascinating. It’s sad and heartbreaking in some areas and hilarious and quirky as others. The overcoming of her trauma and upbringing is inspiring. It was worth every minute, and I will definitely be recommending this book to others.

Such a sad book at times and my heart broke for her over and over. I was smiling so big in the end when she started finding her voice and living for her, as she overcame the things she did I was cheering for her in my mind and clapping for her. She’s been heard and I’m so glad I got to know Jennette’s story, Jennettes life.

I really liked that she narrated this herself. No one else would have been able to capture her thoughts anyway. Only complaint I have is that she did read really fast and so some words felt skipped over that I wasn’t sure what she had just said. Also seemed very monotoned. I know that’s her voice on the regular but it almost sounded as if she just really didnt want to be reading it. And again, maybe that’s just how she felt. It’s a hard story to tell, so I get it either way.

it's been great!

Amazing and detailed writing and awesome narration work by Jennette. This book brought me to tears multiple times and there's nothing you can say about it that defeats its goal of just existing, just getting her story out there. I've found her, as a person, being important to me.

This is my first audiobook and it was truly and amazing experience, Jenette tells her story brilliantly in a way that makes you completely understand the complexity of emotions surrounding her life. Truly thankful for her work

Honestly one of the best books I have ever listened to.

I loved it I watched ICarly and Sam and Cat with my younger daughter and I love her she made the shows watchable as an adult but I had no idea what she had been through She’s witty funny and down to earth

I absolutely loved this book. Jennette’s vulnerability and honesty discussing such difficult and impactful events in her life is astounding.

Brave sharing of important but difficult topics. Memoir unfolds in a way that brings reader along gently to access with what it was like to be in her heart and life

You never know someone else's life. So sorry for the little girl who could be but so glad to hear she has become someone she likes and deserves.

A great listen!

I remember watching her on tv with my littlest sister and she was my favorite character. Her life story and what she has overcome is amazing. Fantastic read and I loved her narration!

Great book!

This was the ultimate narcissitic stage mother. Cudos for Jennette for surviving!

great all around.

I loved that Jennette narrated this herself. Hearing the story how she intended to tell it made a huge difference. What a tragic story. My heart was really sad for her and I completely understand why she titled the book the way she did. I have never been so invested in someone else's story before, but I couldn't stop listening.

Amazing story of weakness and strength

Such a brilliant timeline to use to tell the story. thought-provoking. and from someone who just lost their narcissistic dad, I can relate to so many things. this book has caused me tears, disgust and laughter. Jeanette does a wonderful job at narrating their own story, bravery, wow

Incredible! SO much disfunction while growing up. What a strong person to survive and hopefully, thrive, after all of that. One last recommended action, Jeannette: bulldoze the dang headstone

Good listen

sounds very good.

If there is on book you should listen to instead of read, it’s this one..

A great read. I was hooked the entire way through

Wow this hit home… so good, I love her writing!

Such a raw, honest, yet funny inside look into the life of a child star…augmented by the author’s own narration. Her voice (literal and figurative) is original and irresistible. I hope she continues writing and narrating!

Great Insight into Jennette’s life. The stuff she mentions about herself and what she has gone through are things I never would have imagined she had to endure.

Absolutely phenomenal

I just love it. Read it in one day couldn’t hold the book down. Perfectly written highly recommended

I am too old to be part of the iCarly generation, but I can relate with the narcissistic parents. Written and spoken beautifully. The dark humor is spot on with the situations she endured. Definitely worth a listen.

very good book, she's an excellent writer. I'm happy she found her passion.

I loved it! Made me realise some things

Incredibly written and very captivating

Really great book and very well written. I love autobiographies narrated by the author and Jennette was fantastic.

The book is amazing! It is relatable and moving, and has resonated with me on a deeper level.

I'm glad my mom died is an amazing read. It's a beautifully written book of trauma and personal growth.

An amazing book which is made so much more powerful when spoken by the author herself

Was an incredible opportunity to hear Jennette tell her story. I feel every moment of pain, her mother put her through. I had a similar experience with my own. I'm so pleased to see she survived. I wish her the absolute best life has to offer.

Amazing and raw

enlightening and real.

Touching and well narrated. It was good to hear this life story.

LOVE!!!!!!

A very sad and honest story filled with humor and eventually inspiration to overcome a horribly abusive childhood and a devastating eating disorder that continued into her adult life. Well written and well narrated.

This book was very emotional

Jennette’s story was intriguing and captivating! I kept wanting to keep listening without breaks.

Very poignant, harrowing but worthwhile listen.

Not entertained in the slightest. Way way overhyped. Give me my time back...

I listened to this high because, well I was high, and it freaked me out; seriously depressing.

It's a good book. But I hate to say you can catch every highlight of this book in any interview she's done in the last year so you don't really have to spend money if you don't have to. I respect her journey, I really truly do and I mean no disrespect as I make my critique. You won't get a story you haven't heard 1000 times from any child Hollywood star. It's sad and I like that McCurdy is shedding more light on the problems with Hollywood and the pressures of being famous no matter what the motive. But she constantly goes on like she's the only one that goes through what she's been through. I also related in the way that I took grew up wanting to constantly please my mother even when she didn't always deserve that loyalty. 3 stars because it has a good formula and it's relatable. It's no masterpiece but it is well written. She brushes over experiences but I feel like we miss A LOT of details. Then she dives into some completely gross and unnecessary details...I get why, it's just still unnecessary. I don't feel this way or that about Jeanette Mccurdy personally. I'm not a fan and I don't hate her. So with complete unbiasness she is a TERRIBLE narrator. She reads like a 15 year old that's capable of reading fluently out loud but lacks the skill of a professional narrator. While she doesn't get monotoned, there are parts she rushes over through like she's running out of breath, and places she should pause where she doesn't. I get that it's her story to tell so maybe she should have told it like she was telling us her story and not just reading lines off a page. You know? Kudos to her though from making something of herself when the odds where against her. There is something to respect in her and while I did enjoy the book I could have easily looked over this one and never missed a thing.

Awful book

Not at all what I expected. I had a great relationship and my mother so the title really put me off. I was afraid it would be a series of mother bashing. This was nothing like that. Jennette loved her mother albeit too much.

First off… WOW! When I heard about this book I was like, damn, I could never say that I was glad my mom died, but after listening to her story and the horrors she went through at the hands of her mother, I get it. I laughed, teared up and was having a lot of WTFs going through my head, but it’s a great book.

Boring but kind of nice

Very raw feelings

I loved

I LOVEEE IT SO MUCH BUT SADLY ONLY GOT A SAMPLE

I completely enjoyed this book. It was at times a little much and I had to stop and come back because as a parent, I can’t imagine putting a child through so much trauma, but it’s not the parent story it’s hers and I gotta respect her for it because she’s speaking to her truth.

very engaging and well written! recommended to everyone!

Phenomenal! That’s all I can say as I’ve been left speechless.

The way she fully expressed every detail of her healing journey is honestly inspiring

Brave, honest and heartbreaking. Thank you for telling the truth we all have to know.

I really enjoyed the beginning but then it turns a little tedious.

Excellently read. You can feel the honesty and integrity that went into the telling of this story. Having the author read her own story made it so much more real. Brilliant title. Outstanding content. Thought and emotion provoking read.

Outstanding listen.

At first, I thought the title was a little uncomfortable but after reading it, I saw that the book deserves that title. I was eager to read it because I have always eat watched all the movies she was casted in and I just don't know what to say because the book is fucking great

It’s a good book

Learned a lot about eating disorders

I was not sure what to expect when I started this book. It was mainly just background noise as I was sewing. However, this book was exceptionally eye opening and heartbreaking. I do not know the author's career via television or musically. I have since looked up her television show and music videos. It is saddening to hear how much pain she sent through. This is a must read

I couldn’t get into this book and never got there. I recognize and appreciate the importance of Jennette sharing her story. I’m sorry she experienced all the horrible things she did. But I think the book was repetitive, not that well written, and I just didn’t like it as much as everyone else seems to. It’s nice that she read it herself though, and my heart is so sad for her.

Absolutely riveting. McCurdy is incredibly talented, and hearing her read it brings about a depth and level of emotion that wouldn't have been possible with any other narrator.

So heavy but oh my GOD so good. Love that this is read by Jennette, hearing the emotion in her voice as she reads this diary-style narrative just translates so much better than if someone else read it.

Such a compelling book and Jennette reads it with such passion. I listened to it on my commute this week and she reads so emphatically that it kept my attention, some audiobooks begin to sound so stale that it’s easy to zone out from it while driving but that did not happen with this book. I grew up with a disabled mother and struggled with an eating disorder in my teens and early twenties, not to the severity that Jennette did but this book helped me a lot. I was able to recognize many similarities between her mother and mine and was able to pinpoint instances from my own life that had always felt “off” or uncomfortable as toxic and narcissistic behaviors that her mother used to guide her behavior. Jennette put into words the feelings that I had as a child and young adult that I couldn’t or wouldn’t verbalize. I found the book cathartic and entertaining, not in a haha way but in the way that someone else’s experiences that mirror your own can make you feel less alone, more seen, and hopeful. 10/10 Highly recommend!

super interesting

Overall a great read. It pains me that she lived through this, nobody deserves a parent like that.

It is an awesome book. The story is fascinating and gives a great insight into the life of 2000’s Disney Channels starts life.

a very insightful read

Very well written! This book was recommended on the app based on my listening history. I had no idea who Jennette McCurdy was, but my kids did when they saw what I was listening to. She is very brave to be so brutally open and honest about the abuse she suffered and how it affected her. Well worth the read (or listen)!

I think it’s well written and funny for such a sad story. I think she’s found her calling and that is writing. I hope she finds more success and, writes more hilarious stories.

great read. highly recommend

this book is amazing, it makes you feel validated that just because you are famous it doesn't mean. that you have the perfect life and made me feel like it's ok to have problems and it's not just a poor person issue. I adore you Jannette thank you for this book

Insightful, sobering, moving, and impactful. What an inspiring journey. If the last stage of healing is your testimony, to somehow leave a blueprint for others to hopefully find their way out of their own darkness, then Jennette McCurdy nailed it...brilliantly.

I can't put into words how amazing this work is. Jennette's writing voice and her narration bring a raw energy to the retelling of her life that is very hard to achieve.

Great book!!!!!!!

changed my life.

Loved this book. Really gives perspective on things we don’t think about in the entertainment industry

Soo so good!! I put off reading this for awhile now but I’m so glad I picked it up. It takes a really good book to make me cry but after hearing her mom was abusive from a therapist and her choking up even reading it made me bawl for her!!! So well done. The writing was great and having Jennette narrate it herself was by far the best choice!

This is so amazing! And what makes it even more amazing is her reading it. My daughter was obsessed with ICarly when it was on air. Now my youngest is 8yrs old and she's obsessed with the show. After reading this, when it's on, I watch differently. Knowing what she was going through at that time hurts my heart for her now!

She did phenomenal. The book was perfect !

I really enjoyed this one. I like it when memoirs are narrated by the actual author because it feels so much more personal. Jennette has an amazing story that I knew absolutely nothing about, and she does an amazing job at telling her story.

I absolutely love this book. Great read

heartbreaking and wonderful retelling.

This was my first audio book and I found I really loved hearing the author narrate the book. Jennette's story is heartbreaking, and disturbing, but also one of willpower. I loved her storytelling!

This book was raw and real. Well written.

I love it

Incredible listen! There were a few moments I felt it was edited a little strange and like I missed something. I am so glad I listened and towards the end never felt like I connected to someone going through an E.D, too.

Facinating, bleak, sad. Couldn’t stop listening.

This has been great/awful/validating/depressing. I suggest if you had a *good* childhood, read this book and you’ll get some insight to not great ones. So you’ll never say “but she’s your MOTHER!” To someone who suffered abuse. If you had a not great childhood- read this book. It will validate your experience.

Amazing. It feels like there was a cloud over my childhood that has been cleared. I’m happy to have been given the opportunity to have an inside look. I wish you the best, Jennette.

As a therapist I feel the need to say trigger warning . This memoir was a great & difficult read due to the content. To see her be able to work through her trauma & begin to see some sort of light at the end was my favorite part. I wish her continued healing !

Wonderful book about how fame isn’t always what it seems; even in a seemly peaceful family dynamic.

Brave. Powerful. A masterpiece!

very good

An intriguing story. So full of heartfelt moments at either extreme.

I appreciate that she wrote this book and so honestly. I didn't know who she was, more than anything this shows the abuse of children by the film industry. The authors voice and speed of telling the story was at times difficult to feel and understand, maybe too matter of fact when the fact was the lack of emotion, but that could be her truth, which is sad, but then the story is sad.

When I read the title I already had a good idea what this book would be about, a troubled childhood and forced life because of a toxic mother. Jennette truly is a good writer and touched me with her book and it was more than just a troubled childhood. Seeing how she was as Sam in Icarly, I can’t imagine how hard it was for her to play a character in love with food while having an eating disorder. She opened my eyes to some of my own personal struggles I’ve been avoiding and I really hope she writes more books.

Didn’t know what to expect but it was a great read!

The author who was also the narrator did an awesome job of telling her story. She is brave to tell the truth even though the truth is very painful.

catchy

this. was my first ever audiobook. I had heard her being interviewed on Marc Maron's show. I am glad I read this. She was great overall. It was amazing how she pulled off reading some of the things without cracking or just flat out breaking. I wish her nothing but success for her future and I hope she does another book soon.

The authors narration makes this a much more personal delivery. It has moments of comedy but overall a very sad and uncomfortable story depicting the struggles of a child actor.

Loved it. Crazy to think she went through everything she went through and could still put on a smiling face and stand in front of the cameras every day. She's a strong minded person. Thanks for the read.

It was ok

thanks to all of you

A very genuine and raw listening experience. Relatable in many aspects, and uplifting in the end. Made me introspect and step back.

I was not familiar with the author/actress before listening to this book. I loved the raw, forthright way she told her story without apology or embarrassment or ego. I was appalled at what she went through and it made me wonder about what other child actors endure. Not my usual book choice but it kept my attention throughout; and hooray for Jennette- she made it out alive.

It was very interesting

I didn’t think she was going through all of this I’m so sorry Jennette that you had to go through all of this don’t let somebody control your weight or how skinny you are just be your self your free now tho I hope you have a great life!

this book was so good i swear i listend to a six and a half hour book in thirty mins. i was so enthralled and love jennettes voice.

Interesting story about the tough life of a young actress I used to watch with my daughter. She recommended the book to me.

Thanks so much, Jennette Curdy, for giving us such a great story. Your experiences will resonate with many people around the world and will help to create a conversation around childhood abuse and trauma.

Related heavily with jeanettes fight with trauma and mental health throughout her YA years. Couldn't recommend this book more as I felt a very raw emotional connection to her as she describes events from her POV.

This book was amazing! I love it so much

Unapologetically personal, heavy, moving, and raw. Jennette does a wonderful job of telling her heartbreaking life story up to this point in time. I only hope that if she writes another book, it will be about the happiness she deserves.

Really enjoyed. I felt very connected to her throughout.

This is well written but so heavy. Jennette experiences so much abuse from her family and the entertainment industry. This is a fantastic listen, but beware if you have any triggers for eating disorders, mental health issues, domestic violence, child abuse, addiction and sexual assault. I left this book so proud of someone I don't know for how she has handled her life. I'm also glad her mom died.

fantastic and very interesting

The title at first kept me from getting it but then I gave in and was blown away. Her sharing this personal experience and growth was raw. I thought it need a little bit more at the end as it was picking up pace then it was just done. Maybe there will be a second book? Great listen !

One of the best books I've listened to, probably ever. Clever and we'll spoken Jenette does an incredible job of understanding her point of view

Courageous and bold, and healing at the same time. Thank you for writing it

Jeanettes recount of her child hood is so insightful and the book kept me engaged and also wanting to yell at her mother!

Great book. It did ruin Icarly and Sam & Cat for me. I hate that she was so unhappy for so long. Her acting was so good I couldn’t tell. Very good book regardless.

Excellent book! Touching story and eye-opening recounting of her experiences.

loved it, binged the whole book in a day and a half. what a remarkable personal story about codependency and how easily abuse can feel and look like love. strongly recommend!

I appreciate this author and actress, sharing her memoir with us. She completely expose every part of her being to give us a glimpse into her life. Although many parts of her life and story are disturbing, I hope that telling her story has heart her to heal even more. And I do believe that it will help others in the future.

The book was a smack in the face honest life story of the writer, in the best of ways. The narration by the author was really well done. I would recommend it to anyone and everyone, it has a lot of life lessons. 10/10

First of all I was very impressed with her recall. I can barely remember things that have happened in adulthood, much less that far back into childhood. I had kind of a rough childhood and being a child of an alcoholic a lot of the behavior resonates. Don't want to give too much away, but the title is misleading on a surface level. The book is about the internal struggle she has dealing with a self absorbed lunatic that she loves very much. Children of alcoholics become "pleasers" and negotiators just to maintain the peace. Although alcoholism isn't the driver here it looks familiar. There are parts about her fan interactions that made me feel like she was an ungrateful brat. I know people can be rude and annoying and have no respect for boundaries. So I get it on that level. But there are also sincere impressionable young people that loved her and her character, even though that's a whole other issue with celebrity worship. But ultimately it comes through that she didn't ask for any of it, and I really can't blame her for her apathy. I think she would have enjoyed having a fulfilling music career. She has a sarcastic sense of humor, which I happen to like and she has some pretty good zingers in here that made me laugh. It's also a story of the Hollywood meat grinder that uses these kids and spits them out. That's in addition to the normal backstabbing egocentric culture that's already there. One disadvantage I have is that I was only exposed to the show because it was on 24 hour loop on our TV for a time, so I can't really identify some of the players that she doesn't name. I assume some are pseudonyms. I knew about the "creator" before this so I knew what was going on there. So all in all this was a book I enjoyed. I really hope she's in a better place these days and is able to find happiness.

Great read overall. you can really feel her emotion and she narrates

Loved the book Jennette mccurdy is such a strong young lady I give her the props

This was such a great book! I absolutely hate reading but don’t mind listening to books and this was the perfect choice! I really appreciate Jennette speaking her POV of life as a child actor. I’m so sorry that she went through what she went through, but glad she is overcoming and learning herself more each day.

I love this book so much even though I had to stop it overtime because it was so sad. 100/10 I definitely recommend ❤️

I really love this book and recommend it to everyone!

One of the most eye opening books I have ever read!

Strong women!

A wonderful book! I especially appreciated hearing Jennette's words in her own voice. Very well done!

An amazing book, Jennette does a great job of combining her whit with hard to talk about topics. Had to listen to it all in one day and the author narrating it made it even better!

It was ok. I definitely feel for her and her journey. Her mom really was a piece of work, but there was something off about it I didn't enjoy. Maybe if I read it and didn't listen to it I would have enjoyed it more.

I watched I Carly when I was little and you would never think how a person could be in so much pain it’s so sad to hear about

Great story of authors life as a child actor with an abusive mother who teaches her to have an eating disorder. Good book for someone with an eating disorder, or someone who loves them, to read. I tried turning down the speed of the narrator/author as it was so quick, but it distorted her voice. The pace of the reading is distracting from the good read.

I have the actual book in my room but I also want to listen to it. I love “I’m glad my mom died” it’s really an awesome book.

What a life Jeannette has lived! This was a fascinating and heart wrenching listen. I hope she writes more about her life.

My kids grew up on icarly & Sam & Kat, so I was interested in knowing Jeanette a little better. Plus - the title. It was interesting but a little lacking in depth. The narration was in her tv voice, which I guess is her regular voice, and I find that hard to read as it lacks emotion. Not to be too tough on her - just my thoughts.

An incredible account of her life this far. This book made me want to learn more about her.

Very strong message and very open, nothing is left hidden or untold.

Especially worth to listening to, as it's told by the author herself

Moving story and great that she has the courage to finally talk about it! I love that she was able to open up and my heart hurts for kiddos that are stuck w controlling manipulative mothers. The acting industry needs to be more sensitive to young actors also who are working 10 hour shifts.

Great read. Really eye-opening. As someone who grew up watching Jannette Mccurdy on TV, it totally changed my whole perspective of nickelodeon, child actors, and of Jannette in general. I don’t even know her and I’m so happy for her. Happy that she was able to tell her story and escape the acting world and gain success as a writer. I recommend listening on 0.9 speed bc she talks really fast.

What a wild ride. I have loved Jennette since first seeing her on tv as a kid and the chance to see one of your childhood faves mature and change in a way that is unique to them but speaks to a whole generation. This book helped me reflect on my own relationship with my mother, though our stories are very different in many ways. People always seem shocked when i tell them i think it’s a good thing that my mom passed away when she did, because i don't know how much worse it could have been if she stuck around much longer (regardless if anything done to me was “well intentioned”). I so so so recommend this book to everyone.

such a relatable aver impactful narration.

So painfully real. So sad but funny at the same time. Jennette is such a strong individual

Awesome book!

Her writing and narration was awe inspiring. Her situation heart wrenching. Truly a tragic, but somehow uplifting biography of her life and ability to overcome adversity.

Such an intimate look at her life. Loved it.

I am glad that Jennette stood up for herself....even during time when if a fan didn't know her real name. she didn't acknowledge them.

A great find

Beautifully written, and as it's narrated by the author, it's very personal.

The story of author's life and the consequences of her mother's all-overwhelming commitment and (wellmeaning?!) abuse resonates and creates a deep feeling of empathy for her. Teh book is well written. I did not much like her reading style and one would of expected of an actor to do a little better, but I don't know her as an actor. She is probably reflecting herself in an honest way.

fine it is.

PHENOMENAL BOOK!!! 10/10 worth the read

One of the best books I’ve ever read/listened to. Jeannette’s narrating is captivating in a bitter sweet way, knowing this is her story, her voice. I feel kind of lost now when it’s over….

This book was an incredible listen, had me captivated from start to finish. 12/10 recommend!

Odd title because I don’t think she says anywhere in the book that she was glad her mom died. I enjoyed the book but the narration was slightly odd - like it was speeded up, so a little annoying.

The way she delicately navigates the provocative truth she names in the title makes for a gripping and honest memoir. She has a story worth telling.

Very heavy but worth the listen. I had to listen in chunks because it hit a little too close to home at times. A very accurate portrait of childhood emotional abuse and what it can manifest.

She’s blunt and unapologetic about her experiences. Enjoyed the audiobook very much.

This book was fantastic. I loooved it. The three stars for narration was because she spoke too fast. I had to put it on .75 speed and then it was perfect.

I really enjoyed this book

Jennette spoke her heartbreakingly honest truth. I admire her strength to reveal all to the world.

Sad but fascinating story. I wish I had read the hard copy in lieu of an Audiobook because I might have given it 5 stars on all. I thought the speed of the narration was oddly fast and I wish the Author had wrapped up some "loose ends" better at the end.

Honestly amazing and impactful and human.

An inspiring read. Such an interesting insight into a person’s life that we would otherwise describe as “having it all”. Loved every minute

A really thought provoking listen. Jennette told her story so well, definitely recommend

Quite harrowing really. I’m glad her mum died too .

Great audiobook to listen to. Thank you for sharing your story.

Honestly can’t remember I devoured a book so quickly. Truly a get piece.

A devastating and courageous journey - the work the author's done to unpack and tell this story is astounding - such an intensity of experiences for such a young life living "the dream." I wish I knew her so I could hug her.

this book was amazing it was filled with so much emotion I could feel everything and I would definitely recommend this book to everyone

Although still not sure how the title ties in, I would say to miss McCurdy, Thank you for sharing such a personal story.

I was great

how can someone tell such a muddy, difficult, heartwrenching story with such punchy comedic timing, such acute humor? (I think I know the answer: talent, and self-awareness. maybe also distance)

Amazing book!

Touching in a way I was not even close to prepared for. This book helps you feel less alone.

Excellent writing. Special that it was narrated by the author herself--made it more impactful. Good book to pause and think about your own reactions to it. It is an important book.

this book made me feel everything all at once! I didn't realize it was exactly what I needed. thank you for sharing your story with us

I have been a single mom of two beautiful girls and I was s little scare to listen to this book. My youngest daughter wanted me to listen to the book with her and since lately we had our difference I was scare I will be compare to another mom. Now I know I was wrong I am not being compare this is just the recovery of a very strong woman that can teach all of us that with small little steps we can recover, recognize and let go of the past and move on. Our parents are not us and our parents are not our teachers they are people many very trouble people but just people. Nobody will chance our future but us, nobody but us will write our future so to all ladies out there start writing and start living is never to late to live your life and live s legacy for a next generation.

Narration was horrible

what a heart breaking look into her family & her experience in being a child star. Phenomenal actress never showing it on screen. This book broke my heart, but I loved it at the same time. This lady is a fighter, and an inspiration, I hope young girls can read this and know they are not alone. Hearing her story through her voice was fantastic, I felt it all through her words. amazing.

I made this account just so I can listen to this book, 100% worth it.

I was not expecting much from this book, but I got it all! I laughed, I cried, I felt all the feels right along w her. I only wish she would have spoken a little slower. I had to slow the speed down.

quite good

Great book. Insightful. Well written. Didn’t get bogged down as some memoirs do. Unfortunately I didn’t enjoy the narration as much as the content. IMO the book would have been better served by professional narration.

Amazing book and a very strong person. Helped me realize a lot

Oh wow this was such a good book.

such a great book and I really liked her narration as well!

Incredible book made 100x better by the narrator. I hope she writes more!

To Jennette- You are a writer. Every picture painted felt like watching stills of your life, each stroke purposefully placed. Listening to your story and relating with the smallest details, richly described yet delicately felt. Listening to this story made me feel less alone and certain emotions described through a voice I couldn’t find myself. These stories are beautifully told through an excellent storyteller, may her words bring light to many with unheard voices.

That’s great

so beautifully written. i couldn’t stop listening to it once i started

I love it. thanks for sharing with us,the book is really good!!!!!

I LOVE JENNETTE

a beautiful yet heartbreaking story of child abuse and eating disorders.

really good, strong

This was a hard one to listen to, and so powerful. Thank you, Jennette, for sharing your story.

One of my favorite reads of the year. And I truly believe this is best experienced listening to Jennette narrate. 10/10

Well done!

I’m absolutely obsessed with the book - couldn’t stop listening and Jennette’s voice is so familiar with growing up watching iCarly, it was so sad when it was over. 1000/10 recommend reading/listening to it.

This is a great book!

Just finished the book 5 minutes ago, As someone who grew with such an amazing, loving, and caring mom, I feel so bad whenever I hear stories about people who had to grow up with such terrible and manipulative parents because I simply don’t know where i’d be or how i’d be had I not grown up with the love and support of my amazing mother. It was very clear from the get-go that Jenettes mom was a selfish, narcissistic, and manipulative sociopath who made everyone around her miserable. I cant imagine being Jenettes father, having to work two jobs every day and having to come home to a bitter woman who only put you down every single chance she got. The fact that she wiped her daughters butt until she was 10 and gave her breast and vaginal exams until she was 17 tells you everything you need to know about the type of mother she was. Multiple times in the book Jenette recounts stories of her mom using her cancer to manipulate people into getting what she wants. Jenettes mom’s best friend was named Karen but I think Jenettes mom was the ultimate Karen. She believed no rules applied to her, constantly harassed people just doing their jobs because she believed she was special, and had no problem being rude or manipulative to people as long as it got her her way. I grew up with the mindset of “why don’t people just leave their abusive relationships? it’s that simple” This book has a way of teaching you why it’s so hard to leave an abuser. Jenettes mom conditioned Jenette from an early age that all of Jenettes happiness depended on her mom being happy- and nothing else. When your entire sense of self worth and joy derives around your abusers joys and priorities rather than your own, it’s easy to see why leaving them is a really tall task. I’m grateful I gave this book a read as it gave me a better insight as to why people stay in abusive relationships and just exactly how they seem to form over time (groomed in a way). I wish nothing but the best for Jenette in her road to recovery from a lifetime of mental and physical abuse and her eating disorders. Great book, I highly recommend to anyone on the fence about it

Hands down the best audiobook of 2022. Maybe it’s the nostalgia or realizing that being on a tv show doesn’t make your life perfect. Either way, listening about the that friendship that Jenette had with Miranda healed my childhood heart in a way that I never expected. I’m glad Jennette told her truth. Jennette may never read this review, but you absolutely should listen to this audiobook.

lovely narration and story

Amazing. Sad at the same time. Such a good book.

I felt like I wasn't crazy for feeling this! 7 years later. Really my Whole life

I really enjoyed this book and appreciate her sharing her story. I think that this will help many other people out there who have experienced the same thing. My only critique with this book is that the author speaks very fast! I did get the audio book version but there were times when I had to rewind because I didn’t catch what she said because she spoke too quickly. But other than that it’s a fantastic book.

This book was phenomenal! Thank you so much for helping me feel less alone! The writing is also sooo down to earth despite the tough topics, makes this an easy, yet deep read/listen.

Speechless

I learned a few things about myself listening to this. The narration is fantastic. She gives the book personality that I wouldn't normally get from a hard copy read. I thoroughly enjoyed this read. It really had me emotions a few times. But her comedic relief kept it level. I would read anything she wrote.

Absolutely fantastic read. Everyone who has suggested it, was right. I was hooked from the beginning. I’m glad she told her story.

I was thoroughly invested in this read. Jeannette's narration was full of raw, real emotion. I don't think I would have had the same feels if it was narrated by someone else. I give this book a 4.5 rating, knocking down half a star because I felt as some parts of the book were a bit repetitive. All in all, I recommend this book for a true insight into Jeanette's life. She is a brave woman!

This was such a good book! I had no idea she had been through all this. Such a brave individual who overcame so much in life. Definitely worth reading.

Great read

Loved it

Read this because i’m a fan of jennette and because i am also going through some major mommy issues. none of it compares to what she went through though. she is inspiring and very open/honest.

Great read!

Raw, real. . . The only words I have to describe this book. Narration can be droning but it's Jenette's voice so it only added to the book for me.

Amazing book

Thank you Jennette for being so open and letting us in on the truth behind your true life. Wishing you nothing but the best with this book!

Harrowing and intense. An insightful read.

Really enjoyed Jannette's book and my heart breaks for her entire loss of childhood. I respect and congragulate her strength to overcome years and years of abuse and her dark humor to keep going. Highly recommend this book and it enjoyed it so much more to hear it in her own voice.

so freakin good. just an added bonus that Jennette narrated it herself!!!

This book made me get back into book reading/listening. It is a must read!!

I couldn’t stop listening!

This book was witty and takes you along for the ride with Jeannette’s strong narrative voice!

She’s a fabulous narrator, funny, painful and hopeful all at once

It’s really something this story….mental illness is a really hard thing . I highly recommend it

so so so good

I feel this has to be the most interesting thing I've listened to in a while.

an honest, straightforward, heartbreaking story that doesn't shy away from hard truths, personal struggles, and life as a child actor. Jennette's vulnerability and honesty are at the heart of her story. it's not mentioned, but I can't help but wonder if her mother had munchausen's or malingering? Great narration by the author, as well.

Amazing! I have never had a book captivate me the way this book didI Couldn’t stop listening to it!!! Great job! You changed my life!

Oh my this book was a heartbreaker. I literally teared up so many times, laughed others, and wanted to hug Jennette other times. It was a real trip and I commend her for telling it!

Where do i even Begin? Let me start by saying how strong she is all that she has been through and lived through at such a young age to now be brave enough to speak out her truth Her memior is truly heartbreaking and makes sense to why she chose this Title I wish her nothing but happiness This Book as a must Listen as you can feel the emotion pouring out of her every word

captivating story with great narration

Powerful, captivating, and deep but with enough moments of hilarious levity that I couldn’t stop listening. I hope she continues to write, as her writing voice/style definitely hits the spot for me.

This book is a one of the best books I have ever read/ listened to. The audiobook is an entire experience in itself. Having Jennette read it aloud and hearing her get emotional in some parts was literally having a front seat to her life story. It was beautifully told and brutally honest. I found myself verbally responding to her because I was so enthralled and in the book. It was like talking with her. By the end of the book you feel like you know her. It is also a complete perspective change of my entire childhood watching iCarly. I had no idea, not even a little idea, if what she was going through in her life. She hid everything so convincingly her entire life that this was a massive shock to hear that it wasn’t what it appeared to be in the slightest. Hearing that her and Miranda were actually close outside of the show was a really beautiful thing though. Her honesty and openness absolutely blew me away. I cannot believe she said some of the things she did. I would read this again. This is a book worth owning for anyone who can relate to the material she speaks about or if you loved her in your childhood and want to know her as an adult. What a treat this book was, not because of the hell she went through, but because of how beautifully her story was told and how she came out on the other side stronger and smarter. She is an inspiration and this book could honestly save lives. I will tell many people to read this.

It’s interesting to hear about Jennette’s struggles but I can’t fully relate (just my opinion) She is very strong and brave for speaking about her experiences and I very much appreciate that.

Hearing Jennette talk about her own struggles in her own voice is amazing. The way the book is written follows little threads of events that snowball quickly- unfortunate, but makes for a great narrative.

So well written and narrated. This opened my eyes to different forms of abuse and I wish Jennette nothing but the best in her future.

such a great memoir i cant wait to see where her writing career takes her because she is a TALENT

Very very good

One of the best book I've ever listened to. I really really love the way she writes et narrate the book. I cried several times because I related a lot. I LOVE THE TITLE.

Bravo Jeannette!! How courageous and honest of you. Stay true to you.

Author discusses abuse from her mom and struggle with eating disorders and being a celebrity. It was interesting and gave you an inside look at being a child actor.

so much respect for her, bloody amazing book.

Loved it, her way of speaking pits you right in the room with her. I didn’t watch her shows I’m a little older but I loved her story. Best wishes, my abuse was similar with my dad and after his passing I thought … it’s too late for answers. But in an interview Janette said “ I think my moms passing is what led me to the questions. That’s when I realized.. same ! Thank you for helping others too.

Riveting. One of the best books I’ve ever read. Highly recommend listening as an audio book so you can hear it in Jenette’s voice.

So happy she finally got to write because holy poop she’s so good at it!!! I could not stop listening to this and blasted through it in 2 days.

An absolutely fascinating, funny, and heartbreaking book about Parental Abuse and the price of stardom. McCurdy exposes some of the most personal and vulnerable moments of her life to bring you a book where some of the events out of it wouldn't be too out of place in a soap opera or sitcom that she herself would be staring in. An absolute must read/listen to for this year.

Best book I’ve ever read! Captivating and beautifully written Jeannette shares her life with us. Thank you. My new favorite book

Loved this book and her narration of her own story. I laughed I cried I cringed I smiled. Sharing her story is going to help many people.

I really hope Jeanette feels she found her calling with writing because wow! It was incredible even for her to read it. I ant wait for her next books!

Extremely relatable having a narc as a parent as well. It really hit home for me in many ways.. beautifully written and told, thank you for sharing your story. I would recommend this book to everyone. It’s a must read! Amazing Job Jennette!

absolutely loved this book.

This book is a compelling and irresistible read despite being incredibly harrowing. The subject matter was heartbreaking, but the story is told so well that I couldn't put it down. I didn't know what to expect from it when I picked it up, but this book is my favorite so far this year.

This was such a good read. It was powerful

I like this book

I’ve loved Jennette since I was a kid, and I always made sure to keep up with her as I got older. I grew up in an abusive home similar to her character Sam and seeing her on iCarly as a kid made me feel seen. I listened to this in one sitting and I’m so proud of her. This is such a good book and hearing her tear up made me sob.

Amazing! Loved how she persevered despite everything that’s happened in her life. A true role model

Janette is an amazing person. Great author. Very glad she told her story.

Absolutely amazing.

Such a real, transparent feeling as she’s reading. I loved this book she was so genuine. Also this book title has nothing to do with YOUR relationship with YOUR mom.