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In My Skin: My Life On and Off the Basketball Court
Hailed by ESPN as the world's most famous female basketball player, Brittney Griner has been shattering stereotypes and breaking boundaries ever since she burst onto the national scene as a dunking high school phenom. Now, she shares her coming-of-age story, revealing how she found the strength to overcome bullies and to embrace her authentic self.
Brittney Griner, the No. 1 pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft, is a once-in-a-generation player, possessing a combination of size and athleticism never before seen in women's basketball. But the sport's "most transformative figure" (Sports Illustrated) is equally famous for making headlines off the court, for speaking out on issues of gender, sexuality, body image, and self-esteem.
At six foot eight with an eighty-eight-inch wingspan and a size 17 men's shoe, the Phoenix Mercury star and three-time All-American has heard every vicious insult in the book. Bullied for being different, she has endured years of taunting, from middle school to the present day. Through the highs and lows, Brittney has learned to remain true to herself, rising above the haters who try to take her down.
The journey has often been lonely. Feeling uncomfortable in her own skin for much of her adolescence, Brittney struggled with anger, the Achilles heel that often got her into trouble, usually with her fists. Her transformation began when she discovered basketball in high school. "The court has almost always been a safe place for me, a space where I can rejuvenate myself," she says. "It has always been the one place I feel free."
In this heartfelt memoir, Brittney reflects on painful episodes in her life, from the confrontations she dealt with as a kid, to the infamous on-court punch she threw during her freshman season at Baylor University, to the final moments of her college career and the crushing loss to Louisville that ended her dream of back-to-back national championships. Brittney also explores her complicated relationships with two people she loves and respects—her father, Ray, and her coach at Baylor, Kim Mulkey—as well as her mixed feelings about playing for a school that has a policy against homosexuality.
Here, too, are the highs: Brittney's close bonds with her mother, Sandra, and her supportive siblings and friends; her amazing accomplishments at Baylor, including the team's 74-2 record her last two seasons; her adventurous new life as a pro in the WNBA; and her distinct sense of style, exemplified by the tattoos she proudly wears. Throughout the book, Brittney describes how she came to celebrate what makes her unique—inspiring lessons she now shares with readers.
Filled with all the humor and personality that Brittney Griner has become known for, In My Skin is more than a glimpse into one of the most original people in sports; it's a powerful call to readers to be true to themselves, to love who they are on the inside and out.
Brittney Griner, the No. 1 pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft, is a once-in-a-generation player, possessing a combination of size and athleticism never before seen in women's basketball. But the sport's "most transformative figure" (Sports Illustrated) is equally famous for making headlines off the court, for speaking out on issues of gender, sexuality, body image, and self-esteem.
At six foot eight with an eighty-eight-inch wingspan and a size 17 men's shoe, the Phoenix Mercury star and three-time All-American has heard every vicious insult in the book. Bullied for being different, she has endured years of taunting, from middle school to the present day. Through the highs and lows, Brittney has learned to remain true to herself, rising above the haters who try to take her down.
The journey has often been lonely. Feeling uncomfortable in her own skin for much of her adolescence, Brittney struggled with anger, the Achilles heel that often got her into trouble, usually with her fists. Her transformation began when she discovered basketball in high school. "The court has almost always been a safe place for me, a space where I can rejuvenate myself," she says. "It has always been the one place I feel free."
In this heartfelt memoir, Brittney reflects on painful episodes in her life, from the confrontations she dealt with as a kid, to the infamous on-court punch she threw during her freshman season at Baylor University, to the final moments of her college career and the crushing loss to Louisville that ended her dream of back-to-back national championships. Brittney also explores her complicated relationships with two people she loves and respects—her father, Ray, and her coach at Baylor, Kim Mulkey—as well as her mixed feelings about playing for a school that has a policy against homosexuality.
Here, too, are the highs: Brittney's close bonds with her mother, Sandra, and her supportive siblings and friends; her amazing accomplishments at Baylor, including the team's 74-2 record her last two seasons; her adventurous new life as a pro in the WNBA; and her distinct sense of style, exemplified by the tattoos she proudly wears. Throughout the book, Brittney describes how she came to celebrate what makes her unique—inspiring lessons she now shares with readers.
Filled with all the humor and personality that Brittney Griner has become known for, In My Skin is more than a glimpse into one of the most original people in sports; it's a powerful call to readers to be true to themselves, to love who they are on the inside and out.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published April 1, 2014
79 people are currently reading
1343 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
April 17, 2014
Anyone interested in how the NCAA and certain coaches recruit and treat star prospect Student/Athletes should read this biography.
Anyone one who says to themselves "sexuality shouldn't be news every time a player comes out as gay", should read this.
Anyone interested in learning about the effects of bullying on those among us that don't fit societies definition of "normal", should read this.
This biography took a lot of courage for Ms. Griner to allow to be published. I commend her. I only wonder if years from now she will have misgivings about allowing this to be published. It is a double edged sword when someone so young puts out in the world, family/coach/ sexuality trials and tribulations.
Again, I commend Britteny as she didn't hold back in telling her story. I have great respect for her. If she helps one young person know they are not alone, her book will be a success. If she helps one parent accept their child unconditionally, this biography is a success. If she helps a parent with a talented child athlete be aware of the levels in which some coaches will stoop to, to get your child on their team, she's succeeded.
This is a very quick read, packed with pain and the beginning of growing up and loving yourself for who you are.
As her coach at Baylor U. refuses to respond to this book or anything to do with the "face" of Baylor Women's Basketball, I base my total lack of respect for her on my own observations of her prior to reading this book and after reading Ms. Griner's side of their relationship. Any person who is in a position to influence our children, is and should be held to a higher standard then most. Unfortunately, all Kim Mulkey seems to care about is saving face... Hers. Though Britteny only spends a sentence on what Kim put her daughter through, Kim herself has on occasion spoken on the issue of how unfairly she treated her own daughter. That in itself, told me all I ever want to know about Kim.
Anyone one who says to themselves "sexuality shouldn't be news every time a player comes out as gay", should read this.
Anyone interested in learning about the effects of bullying on those among us that don't fit societies definition of "normal", should read this.
This biography took a lot of courage for Ms. Griner to allow to be published. I commend her. I only wonder if years from now she will have misgivings about allowing this to be published. It is a double edged sword when someone so young puts out in the world, family/coach/ sexuality trials and tribulations.
Again, I commend Britteny as she didn't hold back in telling her story. I have great respect for her. If she helps one young person know they are not alone, her book will be a success. If she helps one parent accept their child unconditionally, this biography is a success. If she helps a parent with a talented child athlete be aware of the levels in which some coaches will stoop to, to get your child on their team, she's succeeded.
This is a very quick read, packed with pain and the beginning of growing up and loving yourself for who you are.
As her coach at Baylor U. refuses to respond to this book or anything to do with the "face" of Baylor Women's Basketball, I base my total lack of respect for her on my own observations of her prior to reading this book and after reading Ms. Griner's side of their relationship. Any person who is in a position to influence our children, is and should be held to a higher standard then most. Unfortunately, all Kim Mulkey seems to care about is saving face... Hers. Though Britteny only spends a sentence on what Kim put her daughter through, Kim herself has on occasion spoken on the issue of how unfairly she treated her own daughter. That in itself, told me all I ever want to know about Kim.
May 7, 2014
I got this book from my library after reading the NPR interview/review. Brittney is a 6'8 basketball player. She played in college for Baylor and is now in the WNBA. I have been fascinated by her since seeing her on TV for several years during March Madness. The girl can dunk! I had never thought about what life was like in her skin, so I read her book.
She does not in any way fit what our American society defines as beautiful. She is freakishly tall, mannish, not a trendy dresser, an athlete, black and a lesbian. She has heard every negative thing playground bullies, mean girls, fans and other female athletes can hurl at her. She continues to stand tall.
The book is presented in more of a conversational style, like she talked into a tape recorder and her "with" writer organized the bio into a book. It works for Brittney's story as it is her voice. Junior High was awful for everyone, but I wouldn't have wanted to be the tall girl people tried to prove was a boy. She is still young, she makes mistakes, but she keeps learning.
If you know a young person or female athlete who is being harassed for whatever reason - race, appearance, gender or sexuality - this would be a good book to share. There are loving people and life on the other side.
She does not in any way fit what our American society defines as beautiful. She is freakishly tall, mannish, not a trendy dresser, an athlete, black and a lesbian. She has heard every negative thing playground bullies, mean girls, fans and other female athletes can hurl at her. She continues to stand tall.
The book is presented in more of a conversational style, like she talked into a tape recorder and her "with" writer organized the bio into a book. It works for Brittney's story as it is her voice. Junior High was awful for everyone, but I wouldn't have wanted to be the tall girl people tried to prove was a boy. She is still young, she makes mistakes, but she keeps learning.
If you know a young person or female athlete who is being harassed for whatever reason - race, appearance, gender or sexuality - this would be a good book to share. There are loving people and life on the other side.
August 2, 2022
Brittney Griner is in the news this year because of her arrest and incarceration in Russia, so I was curious to read this book about her early life. Published in 2014, it is her story of growing up gay and Black in Texas, her struggles with authority figures (her dad and her coach), and her finally trying to live her authentic self. She discovers basketball in 9th grade as she continues to grow (she is 6'8") and it opens doors for her that she hadn't even known were there. The book covers her life up through her first year of professional WNBA basketball, with a heavy emphasis on her college years at Baylor - a school that has a published anti-gay policy which she didn't know about when she signed on with the Baylor basketball program.
A quick read and interesting peek into the life of a superstar athlete. My favorite story was why she gave up volleyball in high school: not because she wanted to focus on basketball, but rather because they insisted she wear tight shorts.
A quick read and interesting peek into the life of a superstar athlete. My favorite story was why she gave up volleyball in high school: not because she wanted to focus on basketball, but rather because they insisted she wear tight shorts.
April 13, 2014
This book gave me great insights into Brittney Griner, college basketball, and the WNBA. Not sure it sounds like it's written in her voice, but the stories are definitely interesting. I love how she's living her life openly and honestly. Good for her! Kim Mulkey should be ashamed of herself. I have zero respect for her - zero! Anyone who has been a Brittney hater, or just curious about her, should read this book.
June 4, 2015
Lacks reflective transparency which is unavoidable of a memoir of someone in their early 20s. Hold out for an ESPN documentary.
August 5, 2020
I don’t usually read sportsball books but this was excellent!
July 15, 2014
The one anecdote from In My Skin that tells you everything you need to know about who Brittney Griner is and why she is so freaking important is that at the beginning of her senior year at Baylor when she found out that the Phoenix Mercury had gotten the #1 draft pick for the next season, she called her cell phone company and asked for a new number with a Phoenix area code. Because, obviously.
This is pretty representative of Griner's unapologetic swagger, the fact that she is freaking great and she knows she's great, and she wants to make sure you know she's great, and other than that she really doesn't give a f*** what you think. I kept thinking about the Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie quote that everyone knows from the Beyoncé song:
In My Skin is a really quick, easy read (I loved the super-conversational style and tore through the whole thing in a couple of hours) but that doesn't mean it's not jam-packed with incredibly smart and important points about (among other things) the extreme dysfunctions of high-profile college athletic programs, coming out as gay in an unsupportive environment and the struggle to live openly/be true to yourself in an incredibly hostile system of forced closeting. So yeah that's a lot.
It's also really good if you're just a straight-up women's basketball fan (Yes, I know I'm talking to like two people right now) because she talks in-depth about a couple of notorious incidents that happened while she was at Baylor, including the infamous loss to Louisville during the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament in 2013. (Incidentally I saw Louisville play in person this year and can 100% confirm Griner's assertion that head coach Jeff Walz is a complete and utter tool.)
Which was super-interesting for a huge basketball nerd like me but actually my biggest takeaway from the basketball part was about her relationship with Baylor head coach Kim Mulkey; there's a big misconception that their falling out was the result of the Louisville game but actually the main source of tension was Griner's refusal to remain closeted once she was done with Baylor basketball. Her coming-out and the media attention surrounding it were obviously huge problems for Baylor, which actually has a written "no gays allowed" bylaw on the books. Yeah, it's messed up.
And in case you're wondering why Griner would even pick a college knowing about that policy, she fully explains that, too: Basically she had no idea that it existed, and did ask Mulkey whether her being gay was going to be a problem, and she said no. Griner later found out that what Mulkey actually meant was, "No... as long as you don't freaking tell anyone and no one ever sees you engaging in any gay activity in public," and in the book she points out the complete hypocrisy of a university having an anti-gay policy but being 100% willing and eager to profit from gay athletes as long as they don't talk about being gay or act gay or look at anyone in like a gay way.
So yeah it was really messed up and even though it's only one person's experience at one university, obviously it's a huge issue with college sports in general and especially college women's basketball. For another case study definitely check out the 2009 documentary Training Rules (which used to be on Netflix but isn't at the moment, sadly), which focuses on former Penn State women's basketball coach Rene Portland and her locker room policy of, "No drinking, no drugs, no lesbians." At least one player was kicked out of the program for being a lesbian; the main difference with Baylor was that the player in question was Brittney freaking Griner and so there's no way you can give her the boot.
Anyway I highly, highly recommend In My Skin. Griner talks early on about the famous "coming out" SportsCenter video and how that moment wasn't really supposed to play out the way it did; she really wanted to do it in a more comprehensive, thoughtful way ( She cites Jason Collins as the person she wanted to emulate) rather than an offhanded sound bite and there's definitely a sense that she saw this book as the chance to do that. Obviously she did a phenomenal job, and I'm sure she already knows that, too.
UPDATE 7/14/2014: BRITTNEY AUTOGRAPHED MY COPY AFTER A BASKETBALL GAME AND IT WAS THE GREATEST MOMENT OF MY LIFE OMG
This is pretty representative of Griner's unapologetic swagger, the fact that she is freaking great and she knows she's great, and she wants to make sure you know she's great, and other than that she really doesn't give a f*** what you think. I kept thinking about the Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie quote that everyone knows from the Beyoncé song:
We teach girls to shrink themselves, to make themselves smaller. We say to girls: "You can have ambition, but not too much. You should aim to be successful, but not too successful. Otherwise, you will threaten the man."The majority of the conflicts that Griner describes in the book come from her complete refusal to shrink herself in any way. In addition to the story above she also mentions that at times while she was playing in college she felt like she couldn't go to the rim too hard, pointing out that LeBron James, for example, probably never worries about coming across too strong. She clashes with her classmates, father and coaches over her sexuality, and with media outlets and the WNBA over the bullshit double standards for female athletes. She also develops into one of the best college basketball players of all time, sets overall NCAA records for both men and women, becomes the first out athlete to land a Nike deal, and oh yeah writes a freaking autobiography (with Sue Hovey, formerly of ESPN The Magazine), so I don't really think she buys into the "don't be too successful" shtick.
In My Skin is a really quick, easy read (I loved the super-conversational style and tore through the whole thing in a couple of hours) but that doesn't mean it's not jam-packed with incredibly smart and important points about (among other things) the extreme dysfunctions of high-profile college athletic programs, coming out as gay in an unsupportive environment and the struggle to live openly/be true to yourself in an incredibly hostile system of forced closeting. So yeah that's a lot.
It's also really good if you're just a straight-up women's basketball fan (Yes, I know I'm talking to like two people right now) because she talks in-depth about a couple of notorious incidents that happened while she was at Baylor, including the infamous loss to Louisville during the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament in 2013. (Incidentally I saw Louisville play in person this year and can 100% confirm Griner's assertion that head coach Jeff Walz is a complete and utter tool.)
Which was super-interesting for a huge basketball nerd like me but actually my biggest takeaway from the basketball part was about her relationship with Baylor head coach Kim Mulkey; there's a big misconception that their falling out was the result of the Louisville game but actually the main source of tension was Griner's refusal to remain closeted once she was done with Baylor basketball. Her coming-out and the media attention surrounding it were obviously huge problems for Baylor, which actually has a written "no gays allowed" bylaw on the books. Yeah, it's messed up.
And in case you're wondering why Griner would even pick a college knowing about that policy, she fully explains that, too: Basically she had no idea that it existed, and did ask Mulkey whether her being gay was going to be a problem, and she said no. Griner later found out that what Mulkey actually meant was, "No... as long as you don't freaking tell anyone and no one ever sees you engaging in any gay activity in public," and in the book she points out the complete hypocrisy of a university having an anti-gay policy but being 100% willing and eager to profit from gay athletes as long as they don't talk about being gay or act gay or look at anyone in like a gay way.
So yeah it was really messed up and even though it's only one person's experience at one university, obviously it's a huge issue with college sports in general and especially college women's basketball. For another case study definitely check out the 2009 documentary Training Rules (which used to be on Netflix but isn't at the moment, sadly), which focuses on former Penn State women's basketball coach Rene Portland and her locker room policy of, "No drinking, no drugs, no lesbians." At least one player was kicked out of the program for being a lesbian; the main difference with Baylor was that the player in question was Brittney freaking Griner and so there's no way you can give her the boot.
Anyway I highly, highly recommend In My Skin. Griner talks early on about the famous "coming out" SportsCenter video and how that moment wasn't really supposed to play out the way it did; she really wanted to do it in a more comprehensive, thoughtful way ( She cites Jason Collins as the person she wanted to emulate) rather than an offhanded sound bite and there's definitely a sense that she saw this book as the chance to do that. Obviously she did a phenomenal job, and I'm sure she already knows that, too.
UPDATE 7/14/2014: BRITTNEY AUTOGRAPHED MY COPY AFTER A BASKETBALL GAME AND IT WAS THE GREATEST MOMENT OF MY LIFE OMG
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August 1, 2016Somewhat interesting, but kind of overshadowed by the fact that BG has had some VERY public drama in her life since this book came out. So if you were wanting to hear about Glory Johnson/baby drama mania, look elsewhere. Because this came out in 2014.
February 7, 2015
Recommended for fans of Brittney Griner and those looking for quick glbtq reads. Average writing.
August 31, 2015
Quick read- I may actually watch a woman's basketball game in the future.
May 17, 2017
it was about Brittany Griner
May 8, 2022
I'm not a WNBA fan (though not not a fan--I don't really watch any sports), so I didn't know much about BG going in. The book stops at her freshman season, and so much has happened since then, I wish the book had been updated.
I appreciate Griner's story, but I think, despite Griner's reported longtime love of writing, it feels more like a set-the-record-straight effort, which is legit! I can imagine when you're a 6'9 queer Texan Black woman with a few rocky relationships (father, coach, and other players), people make assumptions. Still, Griner doesn't really let the reader inside (perhaps for all the same reasons), so the narrative is a little plodding.
I appreciate Griner's story, but I think, despite Griner's reported longtime love of writing, it feels more like a set-the-record-straight effort, which is legit! I can imagine when you're a 6'9 queer Texan Black woman with a few rocky relationships (father, coach, and other players), people make assumptions. Still, Griner doesn't really let the reader inside (perhaps for all the same reasons), so the narrative is a little plodding.
December 13, 2022
I found this book compelling and I want to know more about her. She didn't have it easy in her young life at school, as she was bullied. Then she discovered volleyball and then basketball. She also had a tough time off the court at Baylor because of the school's policy regarding homosexuality.
This is an honest remembrance of her life up to 2014. I highly recommend it! 5 stars!
This is an honest remembrance of her life up to 2014. I highly recommend it! 5 stars!
June 7, 2019
This was my sports figure memoir for 2019. As far as the genre goes, this was really good. Its more about what its like to be a lesbian b ball star than it is about being a b ball star and I thought that was pretty great. I can totally see it being inspirational for HS aged kids. As far as the prose goes it was way better than average for the genre although with the same sort of tonality which I dont really know how to describe (but anyone who reads American sports memoirs will recognize it instantly).
June 9, 2024
Griner recounts stories on and off the court that showcase her journey of coming to terms with being gay, loving difficult people, and being someone that stands out. Every chapter of this books reveals more about her impact on society and women’s basketball.
March 26, 2025
⛹🏽♀️🔥 In My Skin is Brittney Griner’s fearless story of triumph, identity, and breaking barriers—proof that standing tall is more than just height. 🌟💪🏾 #WomensHistoryMonth
June 10, 2024
She’s so funny, maybe unintentionally - I lol’d over her accidentally coming out to the girl in gym class in middle school. But overall this was actually really depressing, I feel sad that all her authority figures were either super manipulative (her dad and coach) or put an unreasonable emotional burden on her (her mom)
December 6, 2015
In My Skin: My Life On and Off the Basketball Court is by a talented, young , beautiful , and powerful beast named Brittney Griner. Even though she was the #1 pick during the 2013-2014 season, she still had a lot of personal problems going on..trust me a 6ft 8 giant like that… In this book, Brittney explains how she overcame bullying and growing up in Houston,Texas and opening up about her sexuality. Brittney guides you through her mind and soulful feelings like how she took on a one game suspension at the Baylor vs Texas Tech game when she punched Jordan Barncastle, and how she broke up with her girlfriend and never could trust anybody again. Her father, Raymond Griner, hated Brittney for this reason and they never talked ever again.. only on few occasions. She (Brittney) took us through a portal of NCAA basketball and walked us through the tunnels under the Phoenix Mercury’s Stadium. Her message changes your perspective of how you take life, after a big hit.
Two things I enjoyed about this book was that included basketball lingo(basketball language) and it also classified terms really well .. that even a person who doesn’t play ball, still can understand. I also enjoyed how Brittany explained every step of her journey and spoke clearly. After the first few chapters, you get submerged in a world of race and fighting to be the best.
Two things I didn’t enjoy was that there wasn’t as many figures of speech that I thought there would be. The book is full of many details , but sadly there wasn’t any exaggerations and humor.. it’s a really serious topic. I felt like she (Brittany) should have talked more about the draft process and her first few games with the Mercury, instead she talked more about bullying and her sexual interest..not like it’s bad but some people want to know what happens in the draft room. The one specific problem is that...she kind of keeps jumping around and never keeps still.. either that or she lags on one topic.
I would recommend this book to people who enjoy sports and who enjoy watching basketball.Anyone who is interested in how college prospects are being recruited and fascinated by the NCAA should read this book. People who say “every time a professional sports player comes out gay” should read this book. People who want to know the effects of bullying and the power if hardwork and perseverance should read this book. If you are fascinated by the WNBA..READ THIS BOOK.
Two things I enjoyed about this book was that included basketball lingo(basketball language) and it also classified terms really well .. that even a person who doesn’t play ball, still can understand. I also enjoyed how Brittany explained every step of her journey and spoke clearly. After the first few chapters, you get submerged in a world of race and fighting to be the best.
Two things I didn’t enjoy was that there wasn’t as many figures of speech that I thought there would be. The book is full of many details , but sadly there wasn’t any exaggerations and humor.. it’s a really serious topic. I felt like she (Brittany) should have talked more about the draft process and her first few games with the Mercury, instead she talked more about bullying and her sexual interest..not like it’s bad but some people want to know what happens in the draft room. The one specific problem is that...she kind of keeps jumping around and never keeps still.. either that or she lags on one topic.
I would recommend this book to people who enjoy sports and who enjoy watching basketball.Anyone who is interested in how college prospects are being recruited and fascinated by the NCAA should read this book. People who say “every time a professional sports player comes out gay” should read this book. People who want to know the effects of bullying and the power if hardwork and perseverance should read this book. If you are fascinated by the WNBA..READ THIS BOOK.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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April 19, 2014I loved reading In My Skin! Brittney Griner is such a phenomenal player on the court that it's exciting to get into her head and learn more about her. My only negative about the book-Nike. Being the first openly gay athlete to be endorsed by Nike is a HUGE deal. That is a major accomplishment! The only mention of her Nike endorsement in the book was ONE sentence and it was in parenthesis as if it was a side note. I definitely think it deserved much more than that.
Brittney Griner and Sue Hovey did a great job with using imagery. The way they wrote about events in her life I could vividly imagine and put a mental image in my head. The descriptive language really helped gain a sense of things she went through and as I was reading I could connect with what she was saying. Throughout the book when the authors wrote about how BG was feeling at certain times, like when she curled up and cried in the bathroom after losing in the Sweet Sixteen, the descriptive language allowed me to feel what she was feeling at that time. “We didn’t have time for me to defer to someone else. And I had only one defender on me: Candace Parker. So I came back to the ball, and DB lobbed me a pass that led me toward the baseline. As I reached for the ball, I thought about the shot I always took at Baylor, my go-to move: turn toward my left shoulder, spin, face up, and release a soft little jumper.” The authors did an excellent job describing important games in Griner’s career. They used imagery to make the reader feel like they were watching her on the court and not just reading about it. They could have just told about what happened pre game and post game but instead, they used imagery to allow the reader to get insider her head as she was playing the game. This book could definitely serve as a mentor text to teach writing. By taking excerpts from the book, like the one above, I can ask the students whether or not they were able to create a mental picture of that particular scene. This can lead into a discussion about imagery and the importance of allowing your reader to visualize as they read.
Brittney Griner and Sue Hovey did a great job with using imagery. The way they wrote about events in her life I could vividly imagine and put a mental image in my head. The descriptive language really helped gain a sense of things she went through and as I was reading I could connect with what she was saying. Throughout the book when the authors wrote about how BG was feeling at certain times, like when she curled up and cried in the bathroom after losing in the Sweet Sixteen, the descriptive language allowed me to feel what she was feeling at that time. “We didn’t have time for me to defer to someone else. And I had only one defender on me: Candace Parker. So I came back to the ball, and DB lobbed me a pass that led me toward the baseline. As I reached for the ball, I thought about the shot I always took at Baylor, my go-to move: turn toward my left shoulder, spin, face up, and release a soft little jumper.” The authors did an excellent job describing important games in Griner’s career. They used imagery to make the reader feel like they were watching her on the court and not just reading about it. They could have just told about what happened pre game and post game but instead, they used imagery to allow the reader to get insider her head as she was playing the game. This book could definitely serve as a mentor text to teach writing. By taking excerpts from the book, like the one above, I can ask the students whether or not they were able to create a mental picture of that particular scene. This can lead into a discussion about imagery and the importance of allowing your reader to visualize as they read.
February 16, 2016
In My Skin: My Life On and Off the Basketball Court by Brittney with Sue Hovey was a good eye opening book for me. I liked this book a lot because I usually read sports autobiographies because it is my favorite genre for books. This book was different though because most of those books were about male athletes but this autobiography was about Brittney Griner a female athlete who plays professional women's basketball. It was interesting for me because I was able to relate in some of the sport situations she faced and it was didn't because this was the first female athlete I've read a book about and going into this book I didn't think I would be able to connect to a female athlete in the same ways I do I for a male athlete.
A quote that I found that most important for me and that I most related to in this book was, “The court had almost always been a safer place for me, a space where I can rejuvenate myself.” (Brittney Griner 7) I picked this quote because I feel the same exact way as she does for the both sports I play when I'm on the football field or baseball field it doesn't matter I feel like it's my second home.
In My Skin: My Life On and Off the Basketball Court by Brittney Is about Brittney Griner, the No. 1 pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft who has a combination of size and athleticism never before seen in women's basketball. She stands at six feet eight inches with an eighty-eight-inch wingspan and a size 17 men's shoe, the Phoenix Mercury star and three-time All-American. This book goes back to when she was in grade school being bullied for being different, she has endured years of taunting, from middle school to the present day. Through the highs and lows, this book talks about how Brittney has learned to remain true to herself, rising above the haters who try to take her down. It talks about how she had to face her main struggle which was anger.
I recommend this book to any athlete who likes basketball or just sports period because you'll be able to relate to some things I'm sure. I also recommend that just like me male athletes can relate to this to just as well as female athletes. I rate this book a 4 out of 5.
A quote that I found that most important for me and that I most related to in this book was, “The court had almost always been a safer place for me, a space where I can rejuvenate myself.” (Brittney Griner 7) I picked this quote because I feel the same exact way as she does for the both sports I play when I'm on the football field or baseball field it doesn't matter I feel like it's my second home.
In My Skin: My Life On and Off the Basketball Court by Brittney Is about Brittney Griner, the No. 1 pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft who has a combination of size and athleticism never before seen in women's basketball. She stands at six feet eight inches with an eighty-eight-inch wingspan and a size 17 men's shoe, the Phoenix Mercury star and three-time All-American. This book goes back to when she was in grade school being bullied for being different, she has endured years of taunting, from middle school to the present day. Through the highs and lows, this book talks about how Brittney has learned to remain true to herself, rising above the haters who try to take her down. It talks about how she had to face her main struggle which was anger.
I recommend this book to any athlete who likes basketball or just sports period because you'll be able to relate to some things I'm sure. I also recommend that just like me male athletes can relate to this to just as well as female athletes. I rate this book a 4 out of 5.
January 17, 2015
I am usually a really slow reader but I read this book in less than two days because I liked it so much. I love basketball and always enjoy books about sports but this one in particular was really good because I have watched Brittney Griner play and have always been amazed by her so to read about her and get a feeling for who she is as a person was really cool. I like how the book starts because right away you get a feeling for who she is as a person and it's a positive feeling because she talks about always wanting to make people around her happy. The titles of each chapter are good because they're weird and interesting which makes you want to read it to find out what they mean. Griner went through struggles when she was growing up with her dad and her identity of who she was but when you watch her on the court you would never guess that. The way the book is written makes it a really easy to read and makes it seem like your talking to Griner which I really like. Although she's a big time basketball player, it's not just about basketball, there's a lot of other good parts to the book so even if basketball isn't your favorite book, it's still worth the read and if you don't like it, it probably won't waste too much of your time. If you do like basketball, especially women's basketball then this book is a must read. Overall, I really enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone.
June 16, 2016
In My Skin: My Life On and Off the Basketball Court by Brittney Griner with Sue Hovey (It Books 2014) (Biography). This is the ghostwritten autobiography of the six-foot-eight-inch black lesbian pro basketball player who graduated from Baylor in 2012. She was the dominant player in the women's college ranks; she is best remembered for her ability to dunk and for losing her temper and punching out a player on another team during her junior year. I'm a huge fan of the ladies' college game, but I read this only for the purpose of finding out whether it had been published recently enough to contain any news about the recently announced marital engagement between author Brittney Griner and current WNBA pro player Glory Johnson, who is a former Tennessee Lady Vol. Fortunately or unfortunately, there is no mention of Glory Johnson anywhere in Griner's book. All I gained from reading this is that Brittney Griner's temper is apparently still unchecked, that she has little gratitude or regard for Baylor University or its coach Kim Mulkey, and that she has little – very little – of interest to say. My recommendation: don't waste a moment of your time contemplating whether to read this. There is no story here, so don't bother. My rating: 5/10, finished 10/ 23/14.
February 6, 2017
I was thinking young young young young as I read this, and then I paused and realised that I'd better check how old Griner is. She's younger than I am (though not by much), so, well, I feel somewhat justified in that impression.
It's this: it's very, hmm, this is me, take me or leave me, and there's not a lot of artifice...some image management, definitely, but mostly a sense of somebody young and earnest both trying to put things out there and still puzzling some of those things out. I understand why this was written/published when it was (strike while the iron's hot and all that), but in a number of ways I wish she'd waited, like...ten or twenty years... On the flip side, of course, it's terrific to see women's sports memoirs and even better to see memoirs by people who are well-known and queer and are just like...'Yup. Gay. So?' and I'd rather not wait ten or twenty years for more of those.
So...no great shakes as a book, but a few interesting points. Worked for a bit of light reading.
It's this: it's very, hmm, this is me, take me or leave me, and there's not a lot of artifice...some image management, definitely, but mostly a sense of somebody young and earnest both trying to put things out there and still puzzling some of those things out. I understand why this was written/published when it was (strike while the iron's hot and all that), but in a number of ways I wish she'd waited, like...ten or twenty years... On the flip side, of course, it's terrific to see women's sports memoirs and even better to see memoirs by people who are well-known and queer and are just like...'Yup. Gay. So?' and I'd rather not wait ten or twenty years for more of those.
So...no great shakes as a book, but a few interesting points. Worked for a bit of light reading.
November 2, 2014
A solid narrative for the genre, I would say that Griner did this in order to establish her own voice and person after feeling stifled and controlled first by her father and then by the Baylor basketball program. The personal story of being bullied at school and controlled by a dominating father at home are themes many can connect with. Her coping mechanisms--anger, fighting, retreating into herself--are also familiar. In this sense, her ability to grow and become her own person provide hope for others in similar situations.
The basketball stories are actually minimal--this is more of a personal sharing. As such, it becomes a little to self-focused in parts. I'm used to reading autobiographies of people who connect their struggles with social justice movements and that was lacking here. Although she is involved with some groups and clearly calls out the homophobia and sexism she's faced and that pervades sports culture.
The basketball stories are actually minimal--this is more of a personal sharing. As such, it becomes a little to self-focused in parts. I'm used to reading autobiographies of people who connect their struggles with social justice movements and that was lacking here. Although she is involved with some groups and clearly calls out the homophobia and sexism she's faced and that pervades sports culture.
December 29, 2017
Story is interesting. Writing is not so good. Way too much repetition and getting stuck on certain subjects that has the reader asking: why are you still talking about this. I cam away with a good understanding of how children, adults, and others suffer when they don't fit the norm. Combined with a extreme disciplinarian for a father and a mother wanting to keep the peace. There was not many places to go for this odd child. Her father's discovery of her sexuality drove a huge wedge between them. They were once very close. At Baylor she was reminded over and over to keep her business behind closed doors. Baylor had/has a strict anti-gay policy. Her college coach welcomed her even though she was gay, but had to keep that part of her life under wraps to avoid disturbing alumni and administrators.
May 12, 2014
I enjoyed the book. I picked it up because I respect Brittney Griner a lot, and having read the book, I respect her even more. But I kept getting distracted by the fact that the book was so clearly really written by someone else. The ghostwriter was able to craft a fine narrative, and provide insights that most 23-year-olds can't. But that was kind of the problem. The book is written in the first person, but many parts, especially those where she dissects complicated relationships and lessons learned, just don't read like they came out of the pen of someone who eats Skittles for breakfast. I enjoyed reading Brittney Griner's courageous story, but I had a hard time suspending my disbelief about the ghostwriting.
December 6, 2014
Amazing insight into herself for such a young person. Sitting courtside at the Mercury games, watching her interact with fans and coaches, i could "hear" her voice throughout this book. It is her story, told her way. I'm sure the co-author helped smooth out some of the rough edges, but it certainly sounds like Brittney's voice. She is humble and laid back and admits her mistakes, just as she owns her feelings when she's been wronged or hurt. It was very interesting to read about her relationship with her parents and college coach, Kim Mulkey, and the Baylor program. Brittney seems very comfortable with who she is; something it takes many people decades to figure out and, for that, I admire her and enjoyed her book.
May 4, 2017
In My Skin is by one of the best women basketball players ever, Brittney Griner. In this book, Brittney explains how she overcame bullying and growing up in Texas. She also talks about opening up about her sexuality. I like how the book is about basketball, but there's barely any exaggerations or humor. It's a very serious book. I would recommend this book to people that enjoy sports, specifically basketball. People who want to know the effects of bullying should read this book too. If you enjoy watching the WNBA, then read this book!
March 7, 2015
I'm not sure if I've ever read a sports bio -- but for my firt one, I really enjoyed myself. Liked hearing about the media frustrations (SI, ESPN, etc), and teammates and coaches, as well as about the game. Brittney Griner is a fascinating American, despite much bacon and fast food she consumes. :) I was sort of drawn-in by how I felt like someone was just talking to me as I read -- no frills around the writing here -- yet that was sort of fun for me for a change.
July 18, 2015
One thing I like about autobiographies, whether ghost written or not, is that the reader gets a glimpse into the lives of the people that we hear about often but rarely know. I enjoyed learning about a lot of the information and the politics that are involved in women's college and pro basketball careers. It was great to read about her achievements and all the hurdles that she had to overcome. It reads like someone just having a simple conversation with you over dinner.
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