I'm Glad My Mom Died

Bookseller recommendation

“More raw than simply reading her written words. ”

— Jane • Maria's Bookshop

Bookseller recommendation

“This book is laid out in two parts, before and after the death of the author's mother, and each chapter is a short story. The material tends to be on the darker side, but McCurdy does an excellent job of balancing her vulnerability with humor, while giving the listener a clear vision of what she was going through. I am so glad I chose to read this via audiobook as the author's deadpan tone really elevated the story! ”

— Kelli • The Novel Narwhal

Bookseller recommendation

“This was one of my top listens of 2022. McCurdy is a compelling storyteller with wonderful narration. I can’t recommend this book enough. It’s a darkly funny, heartbreaking story. But ultimately an inspiring one you won’t soon forget.”

— Avery • Downtown Books

Bookseller recommendation

“Wonderful read that draws you in with its intensity. While a lot of the content is heavy, there's an unflinching honesty about this memoir that is resounding and deeply touching. Not for the faint of heart (TW: eating disorders, child abuse, religious trauma)”

— Jayme • Second Flight Books

Bookseller recommendation

“This is such an important memoir, tackling the difficulties of exploring the traumas of childhood abuse, the underbelly of the entertainment industry, and the addictive nature of eating disorders. By telling her story through her signature candid, dry humor, Jennette McCurdy has finally become known as a writer by her own name. ”

— Amanda Scroggins • Watermark Books

Bookseller recommendation

“This book will have you laughing and cringing in the same breath. It's always so powerful to hear a memoir told in the voice of the author and this does not disappoint. For those who had complicated relationships with their parents or anyone who wants a behind the scenes look at the traumas that can come with being a child star. You won't be able to stop listening to this book!”

— Andrea • Left Bank Books

Bookseller recommendation

“The audiobook is narrated by Jennette, which I think made the experience of reading this even more special. I went through just about every emotion while reading this book. Jennette goes into great detail on her experience as a child actor…and based on the title of this book, I think you can guess how that experience was. This gripping, shocking, emotional memoir will surely keep you on the edge of your seat. I’m Glad My Mom Died is a 2022 must read. TW’s: Eating Disorders, Physical and Emotional Abuse, Domestic Abuse, Sexual Abuse ”

— Quinnell • Annie Bloom's Books

Bookseller recommendation

“This book shines a light on the trauma involved with the child star industry, compelling form start to finish. Made me very thankful for my Mum.”

— Georgie • Devonport Bookshop

Bookseller recommendation

“Jeanette McCurdy's story is incredibly heavy but she tells it with such careful humour and lightness. The author herself reads the book, which adds a huge amount of emotion to every passage but she is also a very talented narrator; whether you know who she is or are usually interested in celebrity memoirs or not, this book is an excellent read. ”

— CP • The Folkestone Bookshop

Bookseller recommendation

“I genuinely enjoyed this book, though it wasn't an easy read. The writing was superb, and the infusion of humor into a challenging narrative added a poignant layer. My heart goes out to Jeanette, and while her story is difficult, it provides a profound understanding of her journey and personal evolution. Despite the heaviness, I found the book to be a rewarding experience, and I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a read.”

— Alycia • Books on Main

Bookseller recommendation

“Woah! There is so much to unpack here. I put on the audiobook and finished it in two days because I just couldn't stop listening. I didn't grow up watching iCarly—coincidentally because I grew up Mormon—but Jennette McCurdy's memoir will strike a chord (many chords) with anyone who reads it. We could all do with a little more understanding on what it's like to be a child star, to have an abusive mother, to experience religious trauma, and to live with eating disorders and addiction. McCurdy tackles these subjects with the sensitivity of someone who understands while also being frank about how these experiences have affected and continue to affect her life. (And, if anyone is wondering, yes. That is how most Mormons think of the Holy Ghost.)”

— Kvothe • Rediscovered Books

Bookseller recommendation

“There is something about listening to a memoir narrated by the person who wrote it that makes one’s experience feel complete. McCurdy’s writing 'voice' and actual one give dry humor and a low folksy charm while describing truly harrowing abuses from her mother. She doesn’t hold anything back whether it’s her time on set on iCarly to her first sexual experience to the description of her vomit after a binge and purge. If you wanted a fun celebrity tell-all…this ain’t it. This is a survivor’s story.”

— Lissa • Book Club Bar