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Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker
Attention troublemakers, parents of troublemakers, and everyone who embraces a rebellious spirit! This captivating narrative is dedicated to you. In the heart of Reston, Virginia, an openly integrated community established amidst the civil rights movement, Ellen’s coming-of-age journey unfolds against the backdrop of societal change. With vivid detail and emotional depth, Ellen chronicles a blissful childhood that comes to an abrupt end when her parents divorce. Labeled as a troublemaker, Ellen becomes the voice of dissent within her hometown, responding to perceived injustices and seeking attention with acts of rebellion – shoplifting, drinking, and fighting. Yet beneath the seemingly defiant exterior lies a soul yearning for belonging and grappling with the complexities of life.
As Ellen navigates the fallout of her parents' divorce, facing isolation and rejection, an unexpected friendship with Bahija becomes her lifeline. United as outsiders battling their own conflicts, the bond between Ellen and Bahija becomes a source of solidarity and empowerment. Ellen discovers the strength to stand up against bullying. As the humorous narrative unfolds, the reader is taken on a riveting journey through Ellen’s formative years, with a front-row seat to the struggles of adolescence, the quest for identity, and the desire for independence.
Brimming with irony and profound insights, this compelling memoir is a celebration of inclusion, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds forged through shared experiences. Each escapade, whether uproariously funny or deeply painful, serves as a testament to the enduring power of genuine connections and the impact of standing up for what is right. Ellen’s story is a reminder that we are all a work in progress, each with a fighter within waiting to be unleashed. Along with poignant reflection, Ellen shows us that laughter can be a potent tool for growth, and sometimes the most judicious lessons are hidden beneath the surface of a good underwear joke.
As Ellen navigates the fallout of her parents' divorce, facing isolation and rejection, an unexpected friendship with Bahija becomes her lifeline. United as outsiders battling their own conflicts, the bond between Ellen and Bahija becomes a source of solidarity and empowerment. Ellen discovers the strength to stand up against bullying. As the humorous narrative unfolds, the reader is taken on a riveting journey through Ellen’s formative years, with a front-row seat to the struggles of adolescence, the quest for identity, and the desire for independence.
Brimming with irony and profound insights, this compelling memoir is a celebration of inclusion, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds forged through shared experiences. Each escapade, whether uproariously funny or deeply painful, serves as a testament to the enduring power of genuine connections and the impact of standing up for what is right. Ellen’s story is a reminder that we are all a work in progress, each with a fighter within waiting to be unleashed. Along with poignant reflection, Ellen shows us that laughter can be a potent tool for growth, and sometimes the most judicious lessons are hidden beneath the surface of a good underwear joke.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2024
11 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Ellen R.B. Smith
2 books7 followersEllen R. B. Smith received a bachelor’s degree in psychology and music from the University of Tennessee. Her professional journey spans 35 years, where she navigated industries entrenched in the prevalent misogyny of the era.
At Amazon, Ellen’s proactive initiatives led to groundbreaking promotions, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her dedication to fostering diversity and innovation, showcased through her work, embodies a leadership style aimed at positive change. Ellen is a highly sought after strategist, speaker, and trainer.
Ellen’s memoir resonates with readers by infusing humor and introspection, encouraging them to confront life’s uncertainties with laughter and many adaptive course corrections. In her free time, Ellen spends time with her husband and two daughters, her very demanding coton de tulears Niles and Frasier, her sister and brother-in-law who live across the street, and her mother and stepfather John, who still reside in Reston, VA.
At Amazon, Ellen’s proactive initiatives led to groundbreaking promotions, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her dedication to fostering diversity and innovation, showcased through her work, embodies a leadership style aimed at positive change. Ellen is a highly sought after strategist, speaker, and trainer.
Ellen’s memoir resonates with readers by infusing humor and introspection, encouraging them to confront life’s uncertainties with laughter and many adaptive course corrections. In her free time, Ellen spends time with her husband and two daughters, her very demanding coton de tulears Niles and Frasier, her sister and brother-in-law who live across the street, and her mother and stepfather John, who still reside in Reston, VA.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 7, 2024
I know the Author. She’s cooler in person, but I keep saying that Zelda needs to be let loose. Of course, that is her decision. I grew up in a different area and time. I understand the bullying and defending friends and family. I toast to a new friend and totally understand and respect her writing (and art.) Keep on writing and thanks for the hugs.
Read
October 22, 2024A personal account of emotions, behavior, and memorable experiences associated with “becoming,” with consideration paid to the influences of time and setting offering unique connections for other Restonites
August 13, 2024
Breezy reading of a fraught childhood that gave me insight into someone who is a natural fighter… for her safety, her principles, and protecting others. She learns to rely on her formidable intelligence and goes on to improve recruiting at Amazon. What a woman.
August 6, 2024
This book was such a great read! The stories are funny but also poignant. I love how the author's voice comes across in her writing. She is as vulnerable and real as she is hilarious and creative. This book has many life lessons and gems inside. It is a short, smart, honest and brave telling of her formative years with lots of takeaways that everyone can relate to. Highly recommend!!!
September 26, 2024
I never considered you a troublemaker.
I liked your honesty and ability to express yourself. I never really knew what you were going through. I believe there are many kids out there who will benefit from your openness and help them feel better about their potential. I'm so proud of you.
Love,
Aunt Joanne
I liked your honesty and ability to express yourself. I never really knew what you were going through. I believe there are many kids out there who will benefit from your openness and help them feel better about their potential. I'm so proud of you.
Love,
Aunt Joanne
October 9, 2024
Ellen R. B. Smith’s Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker is an evocative exploration of adolescence set against the transformative backdrop of the civil rights movement in Reston, Virginia. This memoir offers readers a vivid glimpse into the life of Ellen, whose seemingly carefree childhood is shattered by her parents’ divorce. The emotional turbulence that follows marks the beginning of her journey from a blissful youth to a defiant teenager labeled a troublemaker.
As Ellen grapples with the fallout of her family’s disintegration, she seeks solace in rebellion. Her acts—shoplifting, drinking, and getting into fights—become expressions of her inner turmoil and a way to reclaim a sense of control in a world that feels increasingly chaotic. Smith’s writing shines as she captures both the humor and pain of these experiences, allowing readers to empathize with Ellen’s struggle for identity and acceptance. Central to Ellen’s story is her friendship with Bahija, a fellow outsider who becomes a crucial source of support. Together, they navigate their shared challenges and find strength in each other’s company. This relationship highlights the power of connection in overcoming adversity, illustrating how bonds forged in difficult circumstances can empower individuals to confront their fears and stand against bullying.
The narrative is rich with irony and sharp observations that resonate with anyone who has experienced the tumult of teenage years. Smith’s use of humor, often intertwined with poignant moments, creates a compelling contrast that keeps readers engaged. The memoir not only captures the struggles of growing up but also emphasizes the importance of resilience and solidarity in the face of societal challenges.
Smith’s reflections serve as a reminder that each of us is a work in progress, grappling with our own complexities while striving for authenticity and belonging. Her story underscores that laughter can be a powerful tool for healing and growth, and that sometimes, the most valuable lessons come from unexpected places, even within the context of youthful mischief.
In Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker, Ellen R. B. Smith invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the celebration of friendship. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the rebellious spirit within us all and a testament to the enduring impact of standing up for what is right. This memoir is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or questioned their place in the world.
As Ellen grapples with the fallout of her family’s disintegration, she seeks solace in rebellion. Her acts—shoplifting, drinking, and getting into fights—become expressions of her inner turmoil and a way to reclaim a sense of control in a world that feels increasingly chaotic. Smith’s writing shines as she captures both the humor and pain of these experiences, allowing readers to empathize with Ellen’s struggle for identity and acceptance. Central to Ellen’s story is her friendship with Bahija, a fellow outsider who becomes a crucial source of support. Together, they navigate their shared challenges and find strength in each other’s company. This relationship highlights the power of connection in overcoming adversity, illustrating how bonds forged in difficult circumstances can empower individuals to confront their fears and stand against bullying.
The narrative is rich with irony and sharp observations that resonate with anyone who has experienced the tumult of teenage years. Smith’s use of humor, often intertwined with poignant moments, creates a compelling contrast that keeps readers engaged. The memoir not only captures the struggles of growing up but also emphasizes the importance of resilience and solidarity in the face of societal challenges.
Smith’s reflections serve as a reminder that each of us is a work in progress, grappling with our own complexities while striving for authenticity and belonging. Her story underscores that laughter can be a powerful tool for healing and growth, and that sometimes, the most valuable lessons come from unexpected places, even within the context of youthful mischief.
In Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker, Ellen R. B. Smith invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the celebration of friendship. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the rebellious spirit within us all and a testament to the enduring impact of standing up for what is right. This memoir is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or questioned their place in the world.
October 15, 2024
It is a memoir that feels personal, genuine, and deeply relatable. From the very start, Ellen's storytelling draws you into her world, sharing not just the key moments in her life, but also her thoughts, emotions, and the challenges she’s faced. Growing up in Reston, Virginia, she describes her childhood in an open, integrated community, and it’s clear that these early years, combined with her parents’ separation, shaped her journey toward becoming a self-proclaimed troublemaker.
One of the things I really appreciated about this book is Ellen’s openness about her struggles. She talks about how, from a young age, she developed a rebellious streak, partly in response to the family dynamics after her parents split up. As she grew older, this rebellious side wasn’t just about acting out, but also about standing up against the bullying and injustices she faced. Ellen doesn’t just recount these events—she reflects on how they shaped her, and this level of introspection makes the memoir feel real and honest.
Ellen touches on some tough topics throughout the book—bullying, learning disabilities, substance abuse, and even her struggles with insomnia—but she does it in a way that doesn’t feel heavy-handed. There’s a balance of humor in her writing that lightens some of the more serious moments, making the book feel more like a conversation with a friend than anything else. Despite the challenges she faced, her tone remains resilient, and that was something I found really inspiring.
What stands out is Ellen’s refusal to let her hardships define her. Throughout her life, she encountered gender-based discrimination and persecution for her identity as a non-practicing agnostic Jew, but rather than letting these experiences defeat her, she fought back against them. Her advocacy for herself and others is a strong thread running through the book, and I admired how she wove these messages of social justice into her personal story.
The book’s structure, divided into sections reflecting different stages of her life, works well. It made her journey easy to follow, and I felt connected to her at each point in her life. By the end, it feels like you really know Ellen—not just through the big events in her life, but through the way she thinks and the values she holds.
Overall, it is more than just a personal story; it’s a testament to resilience, standing up for what’s right, and finding humor in the challenges life throws your way. If you enjoy memoirs that are reflective, honest, and sprinkled with humor, this is a book I would definitely recommend.
One of the things I really appreciated about this book is Ellen’s openness about her struggles. She talks about how, from a young age, she developed a rebellious streak, partly in response to the family dynamics after her parents split up. As she grew older, this rebellious side wasn’t just about acting out, but also about standing up against the bullying and injustices she faced. Ellen doesn’t just recount these events—she reflects on how they shaped her, and this level of introspection makes the memoir feel real and honest.
Ellen touches on some tough topics throughout the book—bullying, learning disabilities, substance abuse, and even her struggles with insomnia—but she does it in a way that doesn’t feel heavy-handed. There’s a balance of humor in her writing that lightens some of the more serious moments, making the book feel more like a conversation with a friend than anything else. Despite the challenges she faced, her tone remains resilient, and that was something I found really inspiring.
What stands out is Ellen’s refusal to let her hardships define her. Throughout her life, she encountered gender-based discrimination and persecution for her identity as a non-practicing agnostic Jew, but rather than letting these experiences defeat her, she fought back against them. Her advocacy for herself and others is a strong thread running through the book, and I admired how she wove these messages of social justice into her personal story.
The book’s structure, divided into sections reflecting different stages of her life, works well. It made her journey easy to follow, and I felt connected to her at each point in her life. By the end, it feels like you really know Ellen—not just through the big events in her life, but through the way she thinks and the values she holds.
Overall, it is more than just a personal story; it’s a testament to resilience, standing up for what’s right, and finding humor in the challenges life throws your way. If you enjoy memoirs that are reflective, honest, and sprinkled with humor, this is a book I would definitely recommend.
October 11, 2024
Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker
By:-Ellen RB Smith
5 outof 5 🌟
This is an evocative and insightful coming-of-age memoir that vividly captures the tumultuous journey of adolescence set against the backdrop of societal change in Reston, Virginia. Through a blend of humor and raw honesty, Smith shares her experiences of growing up in a community grappling with issues of integration and identity during the civil rights movement.
The narrative begins with a blissful childhood that takes a sharp turn when Ellen’s parents divorce, leading to her identification as a “troublemaker.” This label becomes a source of both pain and empowerment as she navigates her teenage years filled with acts of rebellion—shoplifting, drinking, and fighting. Yet, beneath her defiant exterior lies a deeper longing for connection and belonging. Smith artfully explores the complexities of her emotional landscape, revealing how the turmoil of her home life manifests in her behavior.
One of the memoir’s standout themes is the power of friendship, particularly through Ellen's bond with Bahija, a fellow outsider. Their relationship serves as a lifeline, providing mutual support as they confront the challenges of adolescence. Together, they embody resilience and defiance against the bullying and isolation that often accompany their struggles. This friendship highlights the importance of solidarity in overcoming personal and social conflicts.
Smith’s writing is imbued with irony and insight, offering readers a reflective lens on the experiences that shape her identity. The narrative balances humor and poignant moments, revealing that laughter can serve as a powerful coping mechanism. Each escapade, whether uproarious or deeply painful, emphasizes the importance of community, inclusion, and the lessons learned through shared experiences.
Overall, Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker is not just a story of rebellion; it's a celebration of resilience, the complexities of growing up, and the unbreakable bonds formed through shared struggles. Smith's journey serves as a reminder that beneath the surface of youthful defiance lies a profound quest for understanding and belonging. This memoir resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, capturing the essence of the human experience in its pursuit of identity and connection.
By:-Ellen RB Smith
5 outof 5 🌟
This is an evocative and insightful coming-of-age memoir that vividly captures the tumultuous journey of adolescence set against the backdrop of societal change in Reston, Virginia. Through a blend of humor and raw honesty, Smith shares her experiences of growing up in a community grappling with issues of integration and identity during the civil rights movement.
The narrative begins with a blissful childhood that takes a sharp turn when Ellen’s parents divorce, leading to her identification as a “troublemaker.” This label becomes a source of both pain and empowerment as she navigates her teenage years filled with acts of rebellion—shoplifting, drinking, and fighting. Yet, beneath her defiant exterior lies a deeper longing for connection and belonging. Smith artfully explores the complexities of her emotional landscape, revealing how the turmoil of her home life manifests in her behavior.
One of the memoir’s standout themes is the power of friendship, particularly through Ellen's bond with Bahija, a fellow outsider. Their relationship serves as a lifeline, providing mutual support as they confront the challenges of adolescence. Together, they embody resilience and defiance against the bullying and isolation that often accompany their struggles. This friendship highlights the importance of solidarity in overcoming personal and social conflicts.
Smith’s writing is imbued with irony and insight, offering readers a reflective lens on the experiences that shape her identity. The narrative balances humor and poignant moments, revealing that laughter can serve as a powerful coping mechanism. Each escapade, whether uproarious or deeply painful, emphasizes the importance of community, inclusion, and the lessons learned through shared experiences.
Overall, Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker is not just a story of rebellion; it's a celebration of resilience, the complexities of growing up, and the unbreakable bonds formed through shared struggles. Smith's journey serves as a reminder that beneath the surface of youthful defiance lies a profound quest for understanding and belonging. This memoir resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, capturing the essence of the human experience in its pursuit of identity and connection.
November 5, 2024
BOOK REVIEW- In "Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker," Ellen skillfully navigates the complexities of growing up as the daughter of loving yet flawed parents during the 1980s divorce boom, all set in the unique landscape of Reston, VA. From the very first page, readers are immersed in a vibrant array of stories that seamlessly blend heartfelt moments with wild escapades, showcasing Ellen's talent for combining humor with poignant reflection.
Ellen’s honest and witty narrative captures her journey of rebellion and self-discovery. She openly discusses her struggles, particularly the rebellious streak that arose in response to her family dynamics following her parents’ split. This defiance evolves into a deeper commitment to challenge bullying and social injustices, highlighting a level of introspection that elevates her memoir beyond mere storytelling.
Throughout the book, Ellen bravely tackles difficult topics such as bullying, learning disabilities, substance abuse, and insomnia. Yet, she balances these serious themes with a light touch, making the narrative feel like an engaging conversation with a friend. Her resilient tone is both inspiring and uplifting, serving as a testament to her strength in the face of adversity.
What truly sets this memoir apart is Ellen’s determination not to let her hardships define her. Despite encountering gender-based discrimination and grappling with her identity as a non-practicing agnostic Jew, she embodies a spirit of advocacy and resilience. Her personal struggles intertwine with broader themes of social justice, creating a compelling and relevant narrative.
The book’s structure, organized into distinct stages of her life, allows for a clear and engaging progression. This organization fosters a deep connection with Ellen at each phase of her journey, offering insights into her experiences, values, and evolving perspectives.
Overall, "Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker" transcends the boundaries of a personal memoir; it celebrates resilience, the importance of standing up for what’s right, and the ability to find humor amid life’s challenges. For those who appreciate reflective and honest memoirs laced with wit, this book is a must-read.
MUST READ 📚
Ellen’s honest and witty narrative captures her journey of rebellion and self-discovery. She openly discusses her struggles, particularly the rebellious streak that arose in response to her family dynamics following her parents’ split. This defiance evolves into a deeper commitment to challenge bullying and social injustices, highlighting a level of introspection that elevates her memoir beyond mere storytelling.
Throughout the book, Ellen bravely tackles difficult topics such as bullying, learning disabilities, substance abuse, and insomnia. Yet, she balances these serious themes with a light touch, making the narrative feel like an engaging conversation with a friend. Her resilient tone is both inspiring and uplifting, serving as a testament to her strength in the face of adversity.
What truly sets this memoir apart is Ellen’s determination not to let her hardships define her. Despite encountering gender-based discrimination and grappling with her identity as a non-practicing agnostic Jew, she embodies a spirit of advocacy and resilience. Her personal struggles intertwine with broader themes of social justice, creating a compelling and relevant narrative.
The book’s structure, organized into distinct stages of her life, allows for a clear and engaging progression. This organization fosters a deep connection with Ellen at each phase of her journey, offering insights into her experiences, values, and evolving perspectives.
Overall, "Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker" transcends the boundaries of a personal memoir; it celebrates resilience, the importance of standing up for what’s right, and the ability to find humor amid life’s challenges. For those who appreciate reflective and honest memoirs laced with wit, this book is a must-read.
MUST READ 📚
September 23, 2024
Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker offers a light-hearted and thought-provoking exploration of some of life’s toughest challenges, including learning disabilities, substance abuse, despair, parenting, divorce, bullying, racism, suicide, misogyny, and insomnia.
This tale follows Ellen's story through her vivid memories of various life events. The author shares her experiences growing up in Reston, Virginia, an open and integrated community, as well as the moments that shaped her into the woman she is today. After spending time away for work and school, Ellen returned to her suburban roots. She reflects that her parents' separation led her to become a troublemaker from an early age, a pattern that continued into her teenage years. Ellen also links her rebellious behaviour and delinquency to her efforts to stand up against bullies.
As she challenges the status quo and confronts injustices, the author skillfully weaves a deeper message of advocacy and social justice into her humorous and candid narrative. Ellen has faced injustice throughout her life, even from a young age. As a non-practicing agnostic Jew, she has encountered persecution and hardships, some related to her gender, but she has refused to let these obstacles hold her back. Instead, she has overcome them all.
This book will resonate with anyone who enjoys reading, memoirs, and personal stories. Dividing the book into sections that reflect different stages of the author's life was a clever choice, making the narrative easier to follow and enriching the overall reading experience.
This tale follows Ellen's story through her vivid memories of various life events. The author shares her experiences growing up in Reston, Virginia, an open and integrated community, as well as the moments that shaped her into the woman she is today. After spending time away for work and school, Ellen returned to her suburban roots. She reflects that her parents' separation led her to become a troublemaker from an early age, a pattern that continued into her teenage years. Ellen also links her rebellious behaviour and delinquency to her efforts to stand up against bullies.
As she challenges the status quo and confronts injustices, the author skillfully weaves a deeper message of advocacy and social justice into her humorous and candid narrative. Ellen has faced injustice throughout her life, even from a young age. As a non-practicing agnostic Jew, she has encountered persecution and hardships, some related to her gender, but she has refused to let these obstacles hold her back. Instead, she has overcome them all.
This book will resonate with anyone who enjoys reading, memoirs, and personal stories. Dividing the book into sections that reflect different stages of the author's life was a clever choice, making the narrative easier to follow and enriching the overall reading experience.
October 9, 2024
Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker by Ellen R.B. Smith immediately pulls you in with its rebellious and spirited vibe. From the first page, Ellen’s voice feels both raw and relatable, making it easy to connect with her story. Set in Reston, Virginia, during a time of societal change, the plot is a coming-of-age journey mixed with rebellion, personal struggles, and a quest for belonging. Ellen’s defiance through shoplifting, drinking, and fighting captures the turbulence of adolescence while hinting at deeper emotional conflicts.
Smith’s writing style is vivid and packed with humor. The way she narrates Ellen’s antics balances humor with emotional depth, allowing readers to laugh at her boldness while understanding the pain beneath. The friendship between Ellen and Bahija is beautifully crafted, showing the strength of human connection in the face of bullying and societal pressure. Every rebellious act feels more like a cry for help, making the book much more than a simple recount of teenage troublemaking.
What I loved most about the memoir is its overarching message of resilience and growth. Through Ellen’s story, we see that even in the midst of chaos, there’s room for laughter, friendship, and self-discovery. It’s a reminder that the "troublemaker" inside us all is just a fighter waiting to be heard.This book left me reflecting on how inclusion and standing up for ourselves can change the course of our lives. A must-read for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider!
Smith’s writing style is vivid and packed with humor. The way she narrates Ellen’s antics balances humor with emotional depth, allowing readers to laugh at her boldness while understanding the pain beneath. The friendship between Ellen and Bahija is beautifully crafted, showing the strength of human connection in the face of bullying and societal pressure. Every rebellious act feels more like a cry for help, making the book much more than a simple recount of teenage troublemaking.
What I loved most about the memoir is its overarching message of resilience and growth. Through Ellen’s story, we see that even in the midst of chaos, there’s room for laughter, friendship, and self-discovery. It’s a reminder that the "troublemaker" inside us all is just a fighter waiting to be heard.This book left me reflecting on how inclusion and standing up for ourselves can change the course of our lives. A must-read for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider!
July 31, 2025
🌈Title: "Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker"
✍️Author: Ellen R B Smith
📚Review: Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker by Ellen R B Smith is a captivating and rebellious memoir that pulses with honesty, heart, and humor. Set in the socially progressive town of Reston, Virginia, Ellen’s story unfolds against the cultural tremors of the civil rights era, weaving personal turmoil into the broader narrative of change. Her early life, once blissful, spirals into chaos after her parents' divorce—transforming her into the town’s misfit voice of defiance.
What begins as mischievous rebellion quickly evolves into a poignant exploration of identity, belonging, and resilience. Ellen’s bond with Bahija, another outsider, becomes a powerful anchor as the two girls challenge bullying, isolation, and societal expectations. With a sharp wit and keen insight, Ellen turns painful experiences into empowering life lessons—reminding readers that laughter and vulnerability are often the keys to transformation.
Bold, reflective, and often laugh-out-loud funny, this memoir is a must-read for anyone who’s ever felt like the outsider with a cause.
✨#books #bookstagram #book #booklover #reading
✍️Author: Ellen R B Smith
📚Review: Memoirs of a Suburban Troublemaker by Ellen R B Smith is a captivating and rebellious memoir that pulses with honesty, heart, and humor. Set in the socially progressive town of Reston, Virginia, Ellen’s story unfolds against the cultural tremors of the civil rights era, weaving personal turmoil into the broader narrative of change. Her early life, once blissful, spirals into chaos after her parents' divorce—transforming her into the town’s misfit voice of defiance.
What begins as mischievous rebellion quickly evolves into a poignant exploration of identity, belonging, and resilience. Ellen’s bond with Bahija, another outsider, becomes a powerful anchor as the two girls challenge bullying, isolation, and societal expectations. With a sharp wit and keen insight, Ellen turns painful experiences into empowering life lessons—reminding readers that laughter and vulnerability are often the keys to transformation.
Bold, reflective, and often laugh-out-loud funny, this memoir is a must-read for anyone who’s ever felt like the outsider with a cause.
✨#books #bookstagram #book #booklover #reading
October 18, 2024
Ellen brought me back to the insanely unique experience of growing up in utopia of Reston. However, her stories carried so much more depth than just the influence of her Reston roots. She hits spot on the experience of a loving yet rocky family system which resonated with me deeply. As a therapist, her vulnerability and candor gave me pause to reflect on my own pain and progress. Thank you, Ellen, for this wonderful and raw book. Highly rec the audio version!!!
July 14, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book for it's historical insights about Reston, a successfully integrated community that was created in Virginia in the 60's. I was inspired by the author's experiences and how she faced many challenges and over came the troubles she found herself in.
Listening to the author read in her own voice helped me feel even more of a connection and appreciation for what she experienced. Once I started I didn't want to put the book down.
Listening to the author read in her own voice helped me feel even more of a connection and appreciation for what she experienced. Once I started I didn't want to put the book down.
August 13, 2024
Breezy reading of a fraught childhood that gave me insight into someone who is a natural fighter… for her safety, her principles, and protecting others. She learns to rely on her formidable intelligence and goes on to improve recruiting at Amazon. What a woman.
August 30, 2024
Ellen Bernard Smith writes from the heart, she is raw, honest, and naturally funny with a Sedaris like quality, this book is a page turner. Truly entertaining and relatable.
October 21, 2024
Fortitude!
This is a very well written memoir of Ellen's personal life and how her fortitude, strength and determination helped her change her life despite feeling lost for love and attention during her early years.
This is a very well written memoir of Ellen's personal life and how her fortitude, strength and determination helped her change her life despite feeling lost for love and attention during her early years.
February 23, 2025
Great Book and great Author!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews