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A review by anna_hepworth
The Secret to Superhuman Strength by Alison Bechdel
challenging
reflective
slow-paced
5.0
As with Bechdel's previous memoirs, this gently paced narrative interweaves the personal with wider literary and historical references that resonate with the theme of the book. I'm only familiar with some of the references, but enough context is provided for that not to matter (although the context is not always provided with the first reference, so rereading is probably going to provide me with a better feel)
I love that Bechdel told their story of seeking for enlightenment through their serial loves for exercise regimes and sports, along with the whys and wherefores of starting and stopping each one (and that they acknowledge that there are several such that didn't make it in to the book)
In terms of difficult to read sections -- Bechdel has not shied away from discussing their maladaptive uses of alcohol, nor the trouble that being a workaholic has brought. There are also mentions of the deaths of Bechdel's parents -- one by suicide and the other to cancer.
I love that Bechdel told their story of seeking for enlightenment through their serial loves for exercise regimes and sports, along with the whys and wherefores of starting and stopping each one (and that they acknowledge that there are several such that didn't make it in to the book)
In terms of difficult to read sections -- Bechdel has not shied away from discussing their maladaptive uses of alcohol, nor the trouble that being a workaholic has brought. There are also mentions of the deaths of Bechdel's parents -- one by suicide and the other to cancer.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Drug use and Death of parent
Minor: Cancer and Suicide