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Naked
Someone needs to talk about this stuff.
It is completely unacceptable that no one talks about this stuff.
The stuff no one talks about is all I want to talk about.
Naked is a collection of coming-of-middle-age essays that traverse a path from self-neglect to self-honoring. There is a rhythmic, lyrical quality to SDG’s debut, which poured out of her with urgency after years of being stuck in life’s holding patterns. From the smallest of life’s moments– a ceramic cup, a hug, a bagel– to life’s inexhaustible journeys– change, growth, love– SDG holds them all equally, bringing a level of emotional introspection and deeper wisdom that holds no pretense. Readers who cannot abandon their lives for a year of rest, reflection, and renewal will find solace in SDG’s approachable take on doing that work within their daily lives. She teaches that within our stories are choices– to question, to grow, to be brave.
It is completely unacceptable that no one talks about this stuff.
The stuff no one talks about is all I want to talk about.
Naked is a collection of coming-of-middle-age essays that traverse a path from self-neglect to self-honoring. There is a rhythmic, lyrical quality to SDG’s debut, which poured out of her with urgency after years of being stuck in life’s holding patterns. From the smallest of life’s moments– a ceramic cup, a hug, a bagel– to life’s inexhaustible journeys– change, growth, love– SDG holds them all equally, bringing a level of emotional introspection and deeper wisdom that holds no pretense. Readers who cannot abandon their lives for a year of rest, reflection, and renewal will find solace in SDG’s approachable take on doing that work within their daily lives. She teaches that within our stories are choices– to question, to grow, to be brave.
- GenresSelf Help
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2023
7 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
About the author
S.D.G.
1 book7 followersSarah Dulany-Gring (SDG) is the owner of FAUVED and the author of NAKED. Through writing, events, and workshops, she teaches others to connect authentically, feel fully, and deeply honor their personal narratives in order to show up for themselves in this (messy) life. Instead of being one’s “best self,” she encourages everyone to be their “favorite self.” She loves coffee, the ocean, and daffodils. She hates mosquitos, humidity, and olives. She lives in Central New York with her two fairly large mini-humans in a tiny house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
November 14, 2023
An engaging read filled with thought provoking moments from connecting to the joy-filled life experiences to THOSE cringe-worthy moments we have all had! A new voice worth the read (or listen!)
January 15, 2024
The perfect book to start the new year! Whether I was laughing or teared up ( this book will likely make ya do both), relating to her stories or not, the lines at the end of each section are what really got me. It would've been easy to fly through the pages, but because of those damn lines, I refrained, begrudgingly so at times, so I could really take in the message and reflect. Cannot wait for SDG's next book!
August 26, 2024
This book was sent to me by an old Florida friend, now living in upstate New York. He’s friends with the author, has been reading my reviews, and thought I would like to read and review this. I agree (cause the only thing better than books is free books) but was nervous. I feel a strong need to be honest, but I also don’t like to hurt people’s feeling, and knowing that there was only two degrees of separation between myself and the author was daunting. Luckily, I enjoyed Naked immensely.
The first hint that I would enjoy reading this was on the edition notice page of the book, in which the author states her desire to have all editing mistakes pointed out to her. I love point out other people’s writing errors! I knew that, even if I didn’t enjoy the writing, I would at least not want to be mean to her.
One of my favorite books of all time (maybe my absolute favorite) is Chronology of Water, by Lidia Yuknavitch, and this book reminded me of that. It’s a bunch of personal essay-type sections, written by someone who has been through a lot of things in her life and has a knack for describing them in a deep yet very relatable way. Some of my favorite things about Naked:
The story of giving birth to her first child was absolutely heart-breaking and filled me with a sense of anger at our failing medical system. I have heard bits of pieces of the way doctors treat women, especially during childbirth, but never like this one.
Dulany-Gring is polyamorous and isn’t afraid to write about both the good and bad things she’s experienced trying to make this work.
The way she talks about her change from just surviving and hyper-focusing to just trying to live life and observe what is going on around her was very relatable. As were the way she wrote about her first time, and overall experiences, meditating; and her struggles with being able to practice regularly and live in the present.
I obviously have never met or talked to this person, but from the way she writes about her brain and her life, she seems like a very caring, loving, understanding, and accepting human being with whom I’d love to grab a cup of coffee.
She writes about death in a way that makes her experiences obvious. I wish she had gone into slightly more depths, but she still did it better than the vast majority of other people I’ve read.
She tells a story of imagining her son getting into a confrontation with an aggressive driver, and—for whatever reason—imagines the asshole driver as being from New Jersey. I can relate.
The only thing I didn’t love was the way she jumped around. I’m not one who needs a story to be linear, but at times I was confused about what was taking place when.
In the end, she claims that she has plans to write many more books. I hope she does and I would very much enjoy getting to read them, even if I have to pay for them
The first hint that I would enjoy reading this was on the edition notice page of the book, in which the author states her desire to have all editing mistakes pointed out to her. I love point out other people’s writing errors! I knew that, even if I didn’t enjoy the writing, I would at least not want to be mean to her.
One of my favorite books of all time (maybe my absolute favorite) is Chronology of Water, by Lidia Yuknavitch, and this book reminded me of that. It’s a bunch of personal essay-type sections, written by someone who has been through a lot of things in her life and has a knack for describing them in a deep yet very relatable way. Some of my favorite things about Naked:
The story of giving birth to her first child was absolutely heart-breaking and filled me with a sense of anger at our failing medical system. I have heard bits of pieces of the way doctors treat women, especially during childbirth, but never like this one.
Dulany-Gring is polyamorous and isn’t afraid to write about both the good and bad things she’s experienced trying to make this work.
The way she talks about her change from just surviving and hyper-focusing to just trying to live life and observe what is going on around her was very relatable. As were the way she wrote about her first time, and overall experiences, meditating; and her struggles with being able to practice regularly and live in the present.
I obviously have never met or talked to this person, but from the way she writes about her brain and her life, she seems like a very caring, loving, understanding, and accepting human being with whom I’d love to grab a cup of coffee.
She writes about death in a way that makes her experiences obvious. I wish she had gone into slightly more depths, but she still did it better than the vast majority of other people I’ve read.
She tells a story of imagining her son getting into a confrontation with an aggressive driver, and—for whatever reason—imagines the asshole driver as being from New Jersey. I can relate.
The only thing I didn’t love was the way she jumped around. I’m not one who needs a story to be linear, but at times I was confused about what was taking place when.
In the end, she claims that she has plans to write many more books. I hope she does and I would very much enjoy getting to read them, even if I have to pay for them
October 9, 2024
Okay lets start this by saying-I am not a writer, and therefore cannot express how much I enjoyed and needed this book. I have been taking my time with it, and savoring it (sorry, Sarah!) What can I even say about this dang book?! Naked is like having a chat, a pep talk, and inspiring stories right in your pocket. It is a treasure trove of stories and life lesson nuggets narrated by Sarah herself and full of her sparkling wit and belly laughs. There are stories, lessons, permission to be gentle with yourself, bravery, grit, love, raising babies, loving yourself, grief and so much more.
So many times, I had to stop the audio and just sit with the words. Sometimes it was to send a bit of my broken heart to Sarah telepathically, and sometimes it was to really let it all soak in. I greatly enjoy that it’s structured under larger themes, and you can go back and listen to the gorgeous advice when you need a pick me up or inspiration.
Listening to this as an audiobook is an entire experience. You feel like you have your best friend next to you with a cup of coffee and an afternoon to heal each other through the communion of friendship. It’s an intimate thing, to listen to someone crack themselves open and draw out their experiences to share.
I have had the pleasure of knowing, loving, and admiring Sarah for nearly a decade. When she told me she was writing a book, I thought to myself “God yes-that’s going to be so great!”, and it’s even better than I imagined. Do yourself a favor and read it!
So many times, I had to stop the audio and just sit with the words. Sometimes it was to send a bit of my broken heart to Sarah telepathically, and sometimes it was to really let it all soak in. I greatly enjoy that it’s structured under larger themes, and you can go back and listen to the gorgeous advice when you need a pick me up or inspiration.
Listening to this as an audiobook is an entire experience. You feel like you have your best friend next to you with a cup of coffee and an afternoon to heal each other through the communion of friendship. It’s an intimate thing, to listen to someone crack themselves open and draw out their experiences to share.
I have had the pleasure of knowing, loving, and admiring Sarah for nearly a decade. When she told me she was writing a book, I thought to myself “God yes-that’s going to be so great!”, and it’s even better than I imagined. Do yourself a favor and read it!
March 10, 2025
Naked by SDG is a raw, honest, and deeply relatable exploration of real-life scenarios that are often left undiscussed. What makes this book truly special is how it brings up these experiences in a way that feels both personal and universal. The stories shared are vulnerable and candid, providing a refreshing authenticity that resonates with readers on a personal level. It's a rare thing to come across a book that speaks so openly about issues many of us face but rarely talk about, and SDG does so in a way that feels natural and comforting.
One of the standout features of Naked is the way it’s written. The book captures SDG's voice perfectly—her words flow exactly as if she were speaking to you in person. Having met the author in real life, I can confirm that the book reflects her genuine personality and warmth. She's just as cool and down-to-earth as she seems in her writing, which makes the book even more engaging and enjoyable.
Another key strength of this book is its structure. Each section is short, usually taking only 5-10 minutes to read, making it particularly ADHD-friendly. It's a perfect format for anyone who wants to dive into meaningful content but may not have long stretches of time to commit.
Naked is more than just a book—it’s a conversation, one that invites you to feel seen, heard, and understood. Whether you're looking for bite-sized insights or a refreshing perspective on life's untold stories, this book is an excellent choice.
One of the standout features of Naked is the way it’s written. The book captures SDG's voice perfectly—her words flow exactly as if she were speaking to you in person. Having met the author in real life, I can confirm that the book reflects her genuine personality and warmth. She's just as cool and down-to-earth as she seems in her writing, which makes the book even more engaging and enjoyable.
Another key strength of this book is its structure. Each section is short, usually taking only 5-10 minutes to read, making it particularly ADHD-friendly. It's a perfect format for anyone who wants to dive into meaningful content but may not have long stretches of time to commit.
Naked is more than just a book—it’s a conversation, one that invites you to feel seen, heard, and understood. Whether you're looking for bite-sized insights or a refreshing perspective on life's untold stories, this book is an excellent choice.
March 18, 2024
This is a book that you will laugh, cry, and feel through but you can totally see yourself in her story. As you hear her story, you can feel those feelings, but feel your own issues, traumas, and life experiences. It's a very relatable book for anyone. Any busy mom can relate to the advice within the book, especially the section Rest. I was able to listen to this entire book audiobook, and being able to hear Sarah's (big Sarah laugh) instead of just reading it was such a delight! Being a foster parent and recognizing the unheard voices of so many children that should be heard made my heart ache in parts, I'm even tearing up writing this review. I also took her audiobook challenge! I listened to the book on speaker and the only issue is it took me a little longer! FYI, my kiddo ages: 13, 10, and 8 months!
January 13, 2024
Kairos- The appointed time in the purpose of God.
Thats what meeting SDG was for me.
Remaining in touch, one day I was shocked-not-shocked to see she wrote a book, and here it is! Buying a copy immediately (because SDG is full of flavor and goodness and is just one of those people) I finished in 3 days. I was shaken by the experiences she narrates, kneeling down with her figuratively, and hugging her when she speaks about touch. I bear witness to feeling all the feels, as she puts it. Many moments she bravely speaks about, resonate with me. She also speaks about different things that I have never experienced or would experience. The raw humanity in this book is what makes it for me. Thankful to have had the opportunity to dive into these pages. I am passing it on.
Thats what meeting SDG was for me.
Remaining in touch, one day I was shocked-not-shocked to see she wrote a book, and here it is! Buying a copy immediately (because SDG is full of flavor and goodness and is just one of those people) I finished in 3 days. I was shaken by the experiences she narrates, kneeling down with her figuratively, and hugging her when she speaks about touch. I bear witness to feeling all the feels, as she puts it. Many moments she bravely speaks about, resonate with me. She also speaks about different things that I have never experienced or would experience. The raw humanity in this book is what makes it for me. Thankful to have had the opportunity to dive into these pages. I am passing it on.
February 15, 2024
Get ready to challenge yourself as you navigate through this book. Naked is a magically written book about the extraordinary life of SDG that helped me honestly evaluate my life. The quirky style Sarah portrays will put you on a path where you can read, reflect, and gain wisdom about the ordinary and taboo (rarely discussed, but necessary) topics of life. After breezing through the book in a weekend, it sits on my nightstand as I often use this book as a daily devotion. I randomly flip to a topic, read it and feel a sense of calm and empowerment needed to face the day head on. I highly recommend this book, it will positively alter your perspective at least once (for some) or more (for others). I cannot wait to read more from Sarah.
August 26, 2024
I just want to say…thank you… first for this book!
I took this book with me when I went to the tablet house and it was my best friend in it.
I thought that I was the only one feeling this pain and sorrow and realized that we all feel some type of pain.
I believe that the blue tea cup held a big purpose…SDG big smile…..genius 💕
I know how being a single mom is lonely and hard, and believe me I was alone too, so I say to you my dear… You are beautiful 😻
Read this book and put some perspective in your life. A wonderful read. And of course I finished it in two days. I was upset because I wanted more!
I took this book with me when I went to the tablet house and it was my best friend in it.
I thought that I was the only one feeling this pain and sorrow and realized that we all feel some type of pain.
I believe that the blue tea cup held a big purpose…SDG big smile…..genius 💕
I know how being a single mom is lonely and hard, and believe me I was alone too, so I say to you my dear… You are beautiful 😻
Read this book and put some perspective in your life. A wonderful read. And of course I finished it in two days. I was upset because I wanted more!
October 5, 2024
My absolute favorite part about reading this book was Sarah’s voice. Her authenticity bleeds onto the page and it’s so honest and raw and refreshing.
I don’t read many essay collections or memoirs (much less a memoir written as a collection of essays), but I’m glad I took a chance on this one.
I love that Sarah doesn’t take herself overly seriously on the page. It made her stories that much more relatable, like she was a good friend trading confessions with me at 2 in the morning.
There were points where I wished for a bit more specificity with some of her anecdotes, but honestly, it’s very likely that is a personal preference.
I don’t read many essay collections or memoirs (much less a memoir written as a collection of essays), but I’m glad I took a chance on this one.
I love that Sarah doesn’t take herself overly seriously on the page. It made her stories that much more relatable, like she was a good friend trading confessions with me at 2 in the morning.
There were points where I wished for a bit more specificity with some of her anecdotes, but honestly, it’s very likely that is a personal preference.
May 22, 2024
You know those reads where you walk away feeling so close to the author you want to call them and fill them in on your day? This. This was one of those reads.
Read Naked by SDG if you like:
🌿 Raw, unfiltered emotion that pulls you in and keeps you captivated.
🌿Thought-provoking reflections that prompt personal introspection and shared commiseration.
🌿Easily digestible sections that make for a smooth and enjoyable read.
🌿Hilarious witticisms that will make you laugh out loud and bring deep, genuine laughter.
🌿 A hopeful outlook that leaves you inspired and looking forward to the future.
Read Naked by SDG if you like:
🌿 Raw, unfiltered emotion that pulls you in and keeps you captivated.
🌿Thought-provoking reflections that prompt personal introspection and shared commiseration.
🌿Easily digestible sections that make for a smooth and enjoyable read.
🌿Hilarious witticisms that will make you laugh out loud and bring deep, genuine laughter.
🌿 A hopeful outlook that leaves you inspired and looking forward to the future.
October 6, 2024
A coming of age book on womanhood, motherhood, raising good humans, sacrifice, independence, struggle, survival, renewal, revival, forgiveness, balance, living your best life. Making life matter, living for yourself….. This list could go on and on as the book touches on every facet of being a woman. It highlights the small moments of life that leave a lasting impression and shape who we become. There is no end to this book, no ending of each story or chapter. It’s an evolution of how life goes on. This is a book meant to help reflect on your own life and how you’re living it.
November 17, 2023
This book is like sitting down with a counselor, friend and yourself all in one. A safe space. It will comfort, challenge and change you. It’s a self help book, but not like any I have read. Because it’s the stuff no one talks about but needs to. You can read it cover to cover or pick and choose what you need in the moment. Very few books stay on my shelves once read, but Naked is here to stay.
January 3, 2024
I appreciated this read. It was thoughtful and funny, but still held tightly onto some serious topics. You can hear the author’s voice as clearly as if you are sharing a drink with her; witty, engaging and contemplative. I also appreciated how the book is set up by topics and each topic has a many stand alone shorter stories, so the reader can move through the reading at their own pace with ease.
January 22, 2024
Sarah is the best friend you didn’t know you needed. This book is about her life. It’s raw and real. You’ll see a bit of yourself in her. You’ll learn lessons from her life and it’ll allow you to reflect on your own journey. I listened to it on the commute to and from work. It was like having a (really chatty) friend in the car with me! Oh, and definitely listen on 1.5x! That’s real Sarah speed. 10/10 recommend.
September 24, 2024
I read this book in one day! It was so relatable ! I think it really validates everything people go through. After all, we’re just trying to get through life and we all have challenges. This book will make you laugh, it will make you cry and it will make you realize that you’re really doing ok! You almost feel as if you’re friends with the author by the time you finish the book. Do not miss it!
December 30, 2023
I’ve met SDG in person and she is someone who makes you want to lean in and listen. Naked brings this same energy— it is witty and sexy and insightful— full of actual belly laughs and frank discussions of trauma and life and joy. When it is over you feel like you’ve had an amazing discussion with a close friend who bared her soul and also offered clear and sound advice.
March 24, 2024
Amazing. Loved it. As I read your story(ies) I admired your strength and vulnerability. The pieces of knowledge at the end of each section-a pearl of your wisdom from what your body, universe, and soul communicated. BRILLANT! I could relate. Thank you for writing this book. I look forward to reading more.
May 30, 2024
I was so excited to read this book and it did not disappoint! Cannot say enough about how much I love the raw honesty about the ups and downs of life! Cheers to this amazing woman for speaking her truth! You won’t be disappointed! It was a breath of fresh air! Go and buy Naked and read it for yourself!
January 21, 2025
Naked was an enjoyable experience from cover to cover. I commend Sarah for her vulnerability through this first-person narrative delving into hot topics, life’s hardships and personal experiences. This book was easy to jump back in to, with short chapters and many stories. Great job, Sarah! Can’t wait to see what you come out with next!
March 28, 2025
I really liked the writing style. It would have been a difficult book or "series of essays" to get through if the writing style wasn't so good. The author has persevered through some tough circumstances and is unapologetically authentic, I respect that. Some of it felt very preachy-and less a memoir. That made whole sections hard to consume.
November 12, 2023
Honest, emotional and heart touching! A must read! My sticky note Eat the Bagel! The journey she takes you through can be understood. By many people, many who need to know keep fighting the fight and adulting Can & does suck many days
December 20, 2023
Great book it felt like I had met a couple girlfriends for coffee or something just to chat also loved that if I didn’t have time to read for a few days I could pick it back up without having to think about where I was when I left off.
January 12, 2024
This book is so aptly named as it’s so raw and amazing to read. SDG has a way of making you look at things in a different way that’s amazingly eye opening and grabs you to pull you in and not let go.
5 stars all the way!!!
5 stars all the way!!!
January 16, 2024
Absolutely fabulous read!!! I enjoyed everything about it! I’ve seen there are others who struggle with the voices in their head and that life it too long to not do what you enjoy! Eat the Bagel!!! Masshole here! That is a true thing!
July 15, 2024
This was such a good book, and being able to relate to so many of the stories makes you feel like your not alone. I absolutely loved this book and recommend it to anyone for a good read and maybe help you out if your struggling through some things.
October 5, 2024
I LOVED your book Naked. I have never read a book as fast as I did this one. I couldn't but it down.
After "hearing " your voice as I read the book. I had to buy the Audio version so I could really Hear you read.
I would love to read anything you write in the future.
After "hearing " your voice as I read the book. I had to buy the Audio version so I could really Hear you read.
I would love to read anything you write in the future.
April 29, 2024
This book is an inspiration that no matter what life throws in your path, be true to yourself! It’s definitely a must read!
October 6, 2024
Such a great book! Read it in 11 days because it was hard to put down. So real and inspirational. Can't wait for her next book!
March 26, 2024
SDG's book is an absolute gem, captivating readers right from the outset. Within the first few pages, I found myself swept up in a whirlwind of emotions, experiencing a profound connection that brought both tears and inexplicable warmth to my heart. It's a rare gift for a book to evoke such a powerful response so quickly, but SDG masterfully achieves it.
By the time I reached page 5, I felt an irresistible urge to embark on a solitary journey with this captivating read. Imagining myself in a cozy corner of a serene restaurant, with a glass of wine in hand and the pages of the book before me, I longed to delve deeper into its rich narrative. Yet, even in that solitary moment, SDG's writing made me feel as though she was right beside me, sharing in the experience with her infectious warmth and humor.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, effortlessly weaving laughter and tears into its tapestry. Through its pages, I found myself reevaluating my perspectives on life, parenthood, marriage, and friendship. It serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder to strive for personal growth and to embrace each moment with gratitude and intention.
I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to have encountered this book and eagerly anticipate the moments when I'll reach for it on my nightstand, seeking solace and inspiration in its pages. SDG has crafted a timeless treasure that resonates long after the final chapter is read.
By the time I reached page 5, I felt an irresistible urge to embark on a solitary journey with this captivating read. Imagining myself in a cozy corner of a serene restaurant, with a glass of wine in hand and the pages of the book before me, I longed to delve deeper into its rich narrative. Yet, even in that solitary moment, SDG's writing made me feel as though she was right beside me, sharing in the experience with her infectious warmth and humor.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, effortlessly weaving laughter and tears into its tapestry. Through its pages, I found myself reevaluating my perspectives on life, parenthood, marriage, and friendship. It serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder to strive for personal growth and to embrace each moment with gratitude and intention.
I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to have encountered this book and eagerly anticipate the moments when I'll reach for it on my nightstand, seeking solace and inspiration in its pages. SDG has crafted a timeless treasure that resonates long after the final chapter is read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews