Reviewing Issa Rae’s honest and relatable memoir of misadventures

It is rare to find a book that can make you feel secure in yourself while causing you to bust out laughing—all in one read.

Issa Rae’s “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl” did just that for me. As someone who also identifies as an awkward black girl, this book spoke to me on levels that I never knew a book could. No, you don’t have to be black or female or awkward like me (or Issa Rae) to get something out of this book. Instead, the memoir is a well-written exultation of the awkwardness of humanity, as seen through the eyes of one woman.

Rae’s funny, brilliant, and oh-so-awkward viewpoint of the world is worth sharing with all people. Her relatability is astounding. If you have ever wanted a nickname, found comfort in your love of food, or lived your life vicariously through television then this book is for you. Her anecdotes from her life—from being boy-crazy to writing her first screenplay—will make you chuckle (and sometimes chortle). Her transparency with matters of life and love make it worth spending the day parsing through her journey so far.

This is the perfect book for anyone whose daily life isn’t all glitz and glamour; it is truly relatable and is one of the best books I’ve ever read because of its accessibility.

Issa Rae, through her honesty, has made me more confident in owning my awkwardness and she could easily do the same for you. Give her memoir a read; you won’t regret it.