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I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin: And Other Thoughts I Used to Have About My Body
A “raw, vulnerable, and utterly hilarious” (Harper’s Bazaar) memoir about one woman’s experience living with a deformity, and her quest to find freedom and joy in her body
“Sosenko’s experience with body shame and judgment, from herself and others, is universal. She shows us her journey from self-hatred to joy so that we may follow her lead.”—Jo Piazza, bestselling author of The Sicilian Inheritance, podcast creator, and award-winning journalist
Carla Sosenko was born with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome, a rare vascular disorder that resulted in legs of different sizes, a mass of flesh on her back, a hunched posture, and other idiosyncrasies big and small. She spent years trying to hide under layers of clothing, and then experimented with the wearing tiny dresses and short shorts, daring people to stare so she could make them regret it. No matter what she did, she was worried that she didn’t measure up.
In this candid and funny memoir, Sosenko shares what existing in an unconventional body has meant for her self-image, mental health, relationships, and ambitions. She writes of having liposuction when she was eight years old, and an adulthood spent obsessively gaming Weight Watchers points. She wrestles with the rise of Ozempic after working hard to reject diet culture. She tries to parse whether it is in spite of or because of her physical differences that she is a social butterfly who chose a high-profile career in media. Most of all, Sosenko explores the ways in which she’s felt alone and without not disabled but different; the recipient of pretty privilege but also fatphobia; too much, but still never enough. We follow along as she learns to claim her body—and mind and spirit and life—for exactly what they her own.
A clarion call for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or believed they should take up less space, I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin offers hope, recognition, and a new way to see ourselves—by celebrating what sets us apart.
“Sosenko’s experience with body shame and judgment, from herself and others, is universal. She shows us her journey from self-hatred to joy so that we may follow her lead.”—Jo Piazza, bestselling author of The Sicilian Inheritance, podcast creator, and award-winning journalist
Carla Sosenko was born with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome, a rare vascular disorder that resulted in legs of different sizes, a mass of flesh on her back, a hunched posture, and other idiosyncrasies big and small. She spent years trying to hide under layers of clothing, and then experimented with the wearing tiny dresses and short shorts, daring people to stare so she could make them regret it. No matter what she did, she was worried that she didn’t measure up.
In this candid and funny memoir, Sosenko shares what existing in an unconventional body has meant for her self-image, mental health, relationships, and ambitions. She writes of having liposuction when she was eight years old, and an adulthood spent obsessively gaming Weight Watchers points. She wrestles with the rise of Ozempic after working hard to reject diet culture. She tries to parse whether it is in spite of or because of her physical differences that she is a social butterfly who chose a high-profile career in media. Most of all, Sosenko explores the ways in which she’s felt alone and without not disabled but different; the recipient of pretty privilege but also fatphobia; too much, but still never enough. We follow along as she learns to claim her body—and mind and spirit and life—for exactly what they her own.
A clarion call for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or believed they should take up less space, I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin offers hope, recognition, and a new way to see ourselves—by celebrating what sets us apart.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 6, 2025
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10875 people want to read
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April 12, 2025
Reviewing memoirs can be so difficult because your subjective views on characters are no longer on characters but real people and the choices that they have made in their lives. Why do I get an opinion about this person, their likability, their privilege etc?? But here we are anyway, so let’s dive in.
There were a lot of things that were very enjoyable about this memoir and it starts with the title. The dark sarcasm mirrors Jennette McCurdy’s memoir and had me sold before I even opened the book. The deeper glances into life with a disability and especially one that is not so invisible puts a lense on our society as a whole and Sosenko very clearly has insight and was well articulated about them. The deeper dive into fat phobia and how our society treats fat women was something I wasn’t expecting in this but was looked upon with a lot of poignant examples and became the framework of this book.
With that said, there were times where I wanted the dark sarcasm to fit more with the title. Instead of dark humour, I felt more anger. And I’m all for angry women as we deserve to be angry, it merely wasn’t what I was expecting given the title. A lot of points were harped in so deeply that I wanted to grab the authour and tell her it’s actually all okay and not as bad as it seems, and I know it’s BAD out here.
There were a lot of times Sosenko would just start making actual lists instead of writing and this threw me for a loop. It was overwhelming, exhausting, and I kept thinking “but you’re a writer? Why are you just listing and bullet pointing PAGES at me??” I think she’s better than this and I feel confident in that given other bits of her writing. It felt like a cop out to include points without making the effort of succinctly story telling with them.
My last was gripe was *gasp* the privilege. I DO appreciate entirely that Sosenko continuously tells us that she has it. From her pretty face, to her rich parents bailing her out, to the emotional support and how good of a family she has, etc etc etc. but it got very tiring and made the story hard to carry on after the halfway point. Why do women so often have to be like-able? I struggled with this idea while reading because I kept going “UGH GIRL STOP” so many times. She doesn’t have to be like-able, she doesn’t have to be nice all the time, she doesn’t have to be skinny to have worth but it also felt like she was begging for this while also being incredibly hard to swallow too.
I do wish we had more on her actual disability and how that affected her more in life and not just her younger years and lack of autonomy. Mixing these points with a deeper dive into how fatness and women are affected in the medical community was more what I was anticipating here and seemed to be lacking overall. As a disabled woman it felt like a lot of this was just her young age and looking different to people and then moved on from the ramifications and how disability can and does affect day to day life. Disabilities effect everyone in different ways but the way it was framed had me wondering how it was effecting her outside of just narcissism and how our society sees bodies. So much of this story was about internalized fat phobia and our society on fatness but that wasn’t what I was expecting to get with this book.
I very clearly have a lot of thoughts on this book and I don’t want to demonize it in any way. There were a lot of great, high points to this but they were also balanced with very annoying and overwrought aspects that had me wanting her to move on already. There were some fall backs and some highlights and by no means am I mad I read it. I enjoyed quite a few moments in reading but they were often smothered by a lot of other rantings that dimmed the overall shine.
There were a lot of things that were very enjoyable about this memoir and it starts with the title. The dark sarcasm mirrors Jennette McCurdy’s memoir and had me sold before I even opened the book. The deeper glances into life with a disability and especially one that is not so invisible puts a lense on our society as a whole and Sosenko very clearly has insight and was well articulated about them. The deeper dive into fat phobia and how our society treats fat women was something I wasn’t expecting in this but was looked upon with a lot of poignant examples and became the framework of this book.
With that said, there were times where I wanted the dark sarcasm to fit more with the title. Instead of dark humour, I felt more anger. And I’m all for angry women as we deserve to be angry, it merely wasn’t what I was expecting given the title. A lot of points were harped in so deeply that I wanted to grab the authour and tell her it’s actually all okay and not as bad as it seems, and I know it’s BAD out here.
There were a lot of times Sosenko would just start making actual lists instead of writing and this threw me for a loop. It was overwhelming, exhausting, and I kept thinking “but you’re a writer? Why are you just listing and bullet pointing PAGES at me??” I think she’s better than this and I feel confident in that given other bits of her writing. It felt like a cop out to include points without making the effort of succinctly story telling with them.
My last was gripe was *gasp* the privilege. I DO appreciate entirely that Sosenko continuously tells us that she has it. From her pretty face, to her rich parents bailing her out, to the emotional support and how good of a family she has, etc etc etc. but it got very tiring and made the story hard to carry on after the halfway point. Why do women so often have to be like-able? I struggled with this idea while reading because I kept going “UGH GIRL STOP” so many times. She doesn’t have to be like-able, she doesn’t have to be nice all the time, she doesn’t have to be skinny to have worth but it also felt like she was begging for this while also being incredibly hard to swallow too.
I do wish we had more on her actual disability and how that affected her more in life and not just her younger years and lack of autonomy. Mixing these points with a deeper dive into how fatness and women are affected in the medical community was more what I was anticipating here and seemed to be lacking overall. As a disabled woman it felt like a lot of this was just her young age and looking different to people and then moved on from the ramifications and how disability can and does affect day to day life. Disabilities effect everyone in different ways but the way it was framed had me wondering how it was effecting her outside of just narcissism and how our society sees bodies. So much of this story was about internalized fat phobia and our society on fatness but that wasn’t what I was expecting to get with this book.
I very clearly have a lot of thoughts on this book and I don’t want to demonize it in any way. There were a lot of great, high points to this but they were also balanced with very annoying and overwrought aspects that had me wanting her to move on already. There were some fall backs and some highlights and by no means am I mad I read it. I enjoyed quite a few moments in reading but they were often smothered by a lot of other rantings that dimmed the overall shine.
May 7, 2025
Many times when I read a memoir, I feel like a voyeur on the author's psychotherapy session. I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin is no exception in that way. I appreciated Carla's snarky dark humor and ability to reflect and laugh at her younger self. As someone who has been called out on her own self-deprecating humor, I also see it as a defense mechanism of sorts... if I am loud and proud about something I am insecure about, it deflects others from being able to laugh at me and makes me feel like they are laughing with me. It is a way of taking the power to hurt back. But it is also exhausting. At times, I sensed her exhaustion at always trying to minimize or avoid her insecurities.
Despite having no connection to the author, I chose this book because I was interested in hearing her perspective on growing up with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome. As a pediatric clinical pharmacist, I always seek out opportunities to learn from patient and parent perspectives so that I can hopefully do my best for them in a way that is medically appropriate but also respectful of patient autonomy and preferences. I enjoyed the beginning of the book where she spoke of her childhood experiences, both medical and social through her peer interactions. However, the book quickly devolved into a soapbox on fat phobia from a person who wasn't particularly limited much physically or in ability based on being somewhat overweight. I am not discrediting her experiences being larger or of a different shape that what is considered "average", but I think there are larger women authors out there who have a more specific experience with obesity, bullying, and discrimination. I just wished she would have stuck to her KT perspective. and given me more in that vein as it turned out to be rather lean in that content.
My other beef with the book is that it is written through the lens of what I would consider a more extreme economic and social privilege. The author does briefly acknowledge her privilege, but I do not feel that she really GETS just how much privilege she has had throughout her life. In one particular chapter, she discussed her shopping addiction. She shared that she got into financial trouble over a few short months racking up credit card debt to a degree that she had to have her family tap into her (trust fund?) investments to get caught. up. She mentioned she was lucky that she had that privilege but didn't come off as understanding that many of her readers would support a family of 5 on that much money over the course of 2-3 years, perhaps even more. I don't begrudge anyone for having been born into wealth and opportunity, but I would like them to understand just how much they have that most others do not and be a little more grateful in the process. Gratefulness was lacking throughout, and while I appreciated seeing her come to terms with the physical lot she was dealt in life, a lot came off as an angry rant about what other people owe her rather than what she owes to herself and overall humanity. While she opines on her KT syndrome and weight challenges, she incessantly brags about her extensive dating experience, sexual relationships, travel, education, employment, fashion, and writing and athletic prowess. It came off as someone who is all that (or at least thinks they are) but somehow isn't particularly appreciative of those things. I think she would have had a very different experience with her KT had she been born into a working-class household and was limited to shopping at Wal-Mart and working summers at McDonald's. It didn't seem like she was all that held back by her lot... but more so haunted by the head conversations she had with herself.
Overall, I thought the essays felt authentic to who the author is, and her thoughts were clearly laid bare. But being so vulnerable in her writing also opens things up for judgment. It is her memoir and her therapy session, but I just sat there shaking my head through a lot of it. Even as a woman who has spent a lifetime in a height, size, and shape much larger than deemed feminine or attractive, I found myself not really able to relate much to her story and experiences. But I learned to dump image as a validation of self-worth very early on in childhood. It was a losing battle to the bullies, and so I focused on academics instead... something I could compete at and win. I guess we all do what we have to do to get on with life, we just choose different ways in doing so. One thing we would both agree on is to dump or quiet quit (I love her use of this term in the context of relationships) the people in life who are dragging you down. Our inner voices do enough of that without inviting more in.
2.5 stars
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Random House | The Dial Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Despite having no connection to the author, I chose this book because I was interested in hearing her perspective on growing up with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome. As a pediatric clinical pharmacist, I always seek out opportunities to learn from patient and parent perspectives so that I can hopefully do my best for them in a way that is medically appropriate but also respectful of patient autonomy and preferences. I enjoyed the beginning of the book where she spoke of her childhood experiences, both medical and social through her peer interactions. However, the book quickly devolved into a soapbox on fat phobia from a person who wasn't particularly limited much physically or in ability based on being somewhat overweight. I am not discrediting her experiences being larger or of a different shape that what is considered "average", but I think there are larger women authors out there who have a more specific experience with obesity, bullying, and discrimination. I just wished she would have stuck to her KT perspective. and given me more in that vein as it turned out to be rather lean in that content.
My other beef with the book is that it is written through the lens of what I would consider a more extreme economic and social privilege. The author does briefly acknowledge her privilege, but I do not feel that she really GETS just how much privilege she has had throughout her life. In one particular chapter, she discussed her shopping addiction. She shared that she got into financial trouble over a few short months racking up credit card debt to a degree that she had to have her family tap into her (trust fund?) investments to get caught. up. She mentioned she was lucky that she had that privilege but didn't come off as understanding that many of her readers would support a family of 5 on that much money over the course of 2-3 years, perhaps even more. I don't begrudge anyone for having been born into wealth and opportunity, but I would like them to understand just how much they have that most others do not and be a little more grateful in the process. Gratefulness was lacking throughout, and while I appreciated seeing her come to terms with the physical lot she was dealt in life, a lot came off as an angry rant about what other people owe her rather than what she owes to herself and overall humanity. While she opines on her KT syndrome and weight challenges, she incessantly brags about her extensive dating experience, sexual relationships, travel, education, employment, fashion, and writing and athletic prowess. It came off as someone who is all that (or at least thinks they are) but somehow isn't particularly appreciative of those things. I think she would have had a very different experience with her KT had she been born into a working-class household and was limited to shopping at Wal-Mart and working summers at McDonald's. It didn't seem like she was all that held back by her lot... but more so haunted by the head conversations she had with herself.
Overall, I thought the essays felt authentic to who the author is, and her thoughts were clearly laid bare. But being so vulnerable in her writing also opens things up for judgment. It is her memoir and her therapy session, but I just sat there shaking my head through a lot of it. Even as a woman who has spent a lifetime in a height, size, and shape much larger than deemed feminine or attractive, I found myself not really able to relate much to her story and experiences. But I learned to dump image as a validation of self-worth very early on in childhood. It was a losing battle to the bullies, and so I focused on academics instead... something I could compete at and win. I guess we all do what we have to do to get on with life, we just choose different ways in doing so. One thing we would both agree on is to dump or quiet quit (I love her use of this term in the context of relationships) the people in life who are dragging you down. Our inner voices do enough of that without inviting more in.
2.5 stars
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Random House | The Dial Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
February 19, 2025
ARC for review. To be published May 6, 2025.
3 stars
Sosenko was born with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome, a vascular disorder which has caused her to have a mass on her back, a hunched posture, legs of different length and some other issues. She tells the story of her life and her self-image problems as well as why she went into media and about years spent fighting her weight.
When Sosenko described the physical aspects of the effects of her K-T disorder I had trouble picturing exactly what she was trying to say, plus multiple times she comments on the fact that people tell her how lucky she is to have such a pretty face (to offset her body, I guess? People are awful.) So, I searched for photos of her.
None of the photos I found show a profile or back view, but from the front Sosenko looks…absolutely normal. Granted, they obviously don’t show the different leg lengths, but I didn’t notice any hunched posture, nor did I see evidence of the mass on her back. I’m not denying it’s there, of course, just saying I couldn’t see it when looking at her straight on in photos, for what that’s worth. And she is very pretty.
There was also a bit of a disconnect for me in her descriptions of her trying to hide/blend in versus her career in media and her tendency to dress out loud. But we’re all made up of contradictions, I guess.
She seems like a great person, out there telling her truth. I hope this book finds those who need it.
3 stars
Sosenko was born with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome, a vascular disorder which has caused her to have a mass on her back, a hunched posture, legs of different length and some other issues. She tells the story of her life and her self-image problems as well as why she went into media and about years spent fighting her weight.
When Sosenko described the physical aspects of the effects of her K-T disorder I had trouble picturing exactly what she was trying to say, plus multiple times she comments on the fact that people tell her how lucky she is to have such a pretty face (to offset her body, I guess? People are awful.) So, I searched for photos of her.
None of the photos I found show a profile or back view, but from the front Sosenko looks…absolutely normal. Granted, they obviously don’t show the different leg lengths, but I didn’t notice any hunched posture, nor did I see evidence of the mass on her back. I’m not denying it’s there, of course, just saying I couldn’t see it when looking at her straight on in photos, for what that’s worth. And she is very pretty.
There was also a bit of a disconnect for me in her descriptions of her trying to hide/blend in versus her career in media and her tendency to dress out loud. But we’re all made up of contradictions, I guess.
She seems like a great person, out there telling her truth. I hope this book finds those who need it.
April 10, 2025
firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc!
i recommend checking trigger warnings as a lot of sensitive topics are discussed, include but are not limited to death/wanting to die, anxiety, abusive relationships, and compulsive behaviors.
the title of carla sosenko’s memoir elicited the same feeling i had when i saw the title of jennette mccurdy’s memoir: “wtf is that title” and “i need to know the context immediately”
i’ll look so hot in a coffin is an hilariously unfiltered but extremely honest look into carla sosenko’s life — she holds nothing back, from her feelings towards herself, her family, men she’s dated, and society. particularly, she holds nothing back regarding her life as a woman with a “pretty face” whose “body doesn’t match”, as she has K-T, or klippel-trenaunay syndrome.
overall, this was a fantastic memoir!
i recommend checking trigger warnings as a lot of sensitive topics are discussed, include but are not limited to death/wanting to die, anxiety, abusive relationships, and compulsive behaviors.
the title of carla sosenko’s memoir elicited the same feeling i had when i saw the title of jennette mccurdy’s memoir: “wtf is that title” and “i need to know the context immediately”
i’ll look so hot in a coffin is an hilariously unfiltered but extremely honest look into carla sosenko’s life — she holds nothing back, from her feelings towards herself, her family, men she’s dated, and society. particularly, she holds nothing back regarding her life as a woman with a “pretty face” whose “body doesn’t match”, as she has K-T, or klippel-trenaunay syndrome.
overall, this was a fantastic memoir!
November 1, 2024
I have to admit that once I saw the title "I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin," I was immediately drawn to this memoirish book of essays by writer/author/editor Carla Sosenko.
As a lifelong paraplegic born with spina bifida (think open spine, scoliosis, urostomy and other oddities) who is now also a double amputee wheelchair user who survived two types of cancer in the past year, I'm likely to be a fan of anyone who approaches the human body with a certain degree of humor, vulnerability, and irreverence.
That's Carla Sosenko.
Sosenko was born with Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome, a rare vascular disorder resulting in legs of different sizes, a mass of flesh on her back, a hunched posture, and other physical peculiarities. Over the years, Sosenko seemed to vacillate between hiding her body and flaunting it. I can identify with this having bounced between hypersexuality and practical priesthood until I discovered, well, me.
"I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin" is candid and funny with occasional fits of melancholy and insight tossed in for good measure. Sosenko shares with remarkable candor what it was like growing up in an "unconventional" body and how it impacted her self-image, relationships, opportunities, mental health, and pretty much everything else.
She writes about having what amounted to forced liposuction at age eight (which for the record really ticks me off), her adventures with Weight Watchers, her views toward diet culture, her relationships (including a particularly unhealthy one that undoubtedly crossed the line into domestic violence), her transition into adulthood, and the somewhat miracle yet gift that resulted in her moving into a high-profile and very successful career in media.
Sosenko shares, at times uncomfortably so, her sense of isolation and her experiences with anxiety. She shares an awareness of being different, however, also not necessarily through the lens of disability. She learns, and at times it feels like she's learning it even as she writes, how to claim her body and to stop allowing others to define her life experience for her.
At times, I longed for that transition to be more obvious in "I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin." The last chapter, easily my favorite, feels like the lens I really longed for knowing where she's ended up. This sounds weird, at least for me, as I certainly valued Sosenko's meaningful and remarkably honest and open journey, however, I will admit I needed to experience the Sosenko who really claimed her life and her success and her, well, beauty (and if you've seen photos of her she is both physically unique and quite beautiful). I wanted to see the link between her journey between those "thoughts I used to have about my body" and how she learned to live her good life. In the final chapter, which both made me smile and somewhat brought me to tears (Yes, it's possible to be somewhat brought to tears), we begin to see how Sosenko took everything she experienced and became f***ing amazing.
"I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin," for us religious folks, feels like a cousin to "In heaven, you'll be "normal." F*** that. I love who I am now. If I have to change in heaven, I'm not interested.
"I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin" is an ideal memoir for anyone who's ever felt different, like an outsider, or like they don't have a place in the world. Taking a journey from feeling like she's taking up space to celebrating what sets her apart, Sosenko provides hope and celebration for all of us, myself included, who are square pegs in a round world.
As a lifelong paraplegic born with spina bifida (think open spine, scoliosis, urostomy and other oddities) who is now also a double amputee wheelchair user who survived two types of cancer in the past year, I'm likely to be a fan of anyone who approaches the human body with a certain degree of humor, vulnerability, and irreverence.
That's Carla Sosenko.
Sosenko was born with Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome, a rare vascular disorder resulting in legs of different sizes, a mass of flesh on her back, a hunched posture, and other physical peculiarities. Over the years, Sosenko seemed to vacillate between hiding her body and flaunting it. I can identify with this having bounced between hypersexuality and practical priesthood until I discovered, well, me.
"I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin" is candid and funny with occasional fits of melancholy and insight tossed in for good measure. Sosenko shares with remarkable candor what it was like growing up in an "unconventional" body and how it impacted her self-image, relationships, opportunities, mental health, and pretty much everything else.
She writes about having what amounted to forced liposuction at age eight (which for the record really ticks me off), her adventures with Weight Watchers, her views toward diet culture, her relationships (including a particularly unhealthy one that undoubtedly crossed the line into domestic violence), her transition into adulthood, and the somewhat miracle yet gift that resulted in her moving into a high-profile and very successful career in media.
Sosenko shares, at times uncomfortably so, her sense of isolation and her experiences with anxiety. She shares an awareness of being different, however, also not necessarily through the lens of disability. She learns, and at times it feels like she's learning it even as she writes, how to claim her body and to stop allowing others to define her life experience for her.
At times, I longed for that transition to be more obvious in "I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin." The last chapter, easily my favorite, feels like the lens I really longed for knowing where she's ended up. This sounds weird, at least for me, as I certainly valued Sosenko's meaningful and remarkably honest and open journey, however, I will admit I needed to experience the Sosenko who really claimed her life and her success and her, well, beauty (and if you've seen photos of her she is both physically unique and quite beautiful). I wanted to see the link between her journey between those "thoughts I used to have about my body" and how she learned to live her good life. In the final chapter, which both made me smile and somewhat brought me to tears (Yes, it's possible to be somewhat brought to tears), we begin to see how Sosenko took everything she experienced and became f***ing amazing.
"I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin," for us religious folks, feels like a cousin to "In heaven, you'll be "normal." F*** that. I love who I am now. If I have to change in heaven, I'm not interested.
"I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin" is an ideal memoir for anyone who's ever felt different, like an outsider, or like they don't have a place in the world. Taking a journey from feeling like she's taking up space to celebrating what sets her apart, Sosenko provides hope and celebration for all of us, myself included, who are square pegs in a round world.
February 21, 2025
Carla Sosenko's memoir via essays makes for entertaining as well as illuminating reading. Born with a rare condition known as Klippel-Trenaunay, she has dealt with the issues that go along with it, one leg larger than the other, a carapace on her back, hunched posture. But she was more fortunate than some in that her parents didn't treat her differently, but as she puts it, "....[who] gave their kid who was born with a really rare disorder a completely normal, regular-in-a-good-way life ... did most of the things you're supposed to do when you're growing up." This gave her self-esteem, a fact that she really didn't appreciate until she'd matured. Each essay relates another aspect of living "other," a fact that many can relate to, without sentment but with a lot of humor and honesty. Kudos.
September 5, 2025
Second half was not as compelling as the first. Also, this book was not about what I thought it would be, and I didn't relate. I didn't enjoy this one.
Found on Libby.
Found on Libby.
May 8, 2025
"If someone were staring at you on the street, really staring, what would you do? You would confront them, maybe…At the very least you would roll your eyes or cross the street or in some other way absent yourself from the situation, because being stared at is weird. And yet we spend so much of our lives making ourselves palatable to the gaze of others. Why?"
Thank you NetGalley and The Dial Press for the eARC!
I loved how vulnerable and open Sosenko was! It was so refreshing to read about her experiences-the good and the bad, facing her mistakes and privileges, celebrating how far she’s come even if it’s not perfect (because we’re human no one is perfect!). The author shares stories of her life from surgeries, diet culture, dating, fashion, shopping addiction, and her ADHD diagnosis.
I marked a lot of passages that were inspiring or relatable! There were a lot of relatable things for me, especially about body image and ADHD.
The only reason this wasn’t a 5 star read was because the chapters can be a bit long for my taste, so it was harder to fully focus and read multiple in one sitting/day (hello adhd!)
Overall Sosenko’s memoir is funny, tender, empowering, and thought provoking! She provides an important reminder that every body is different, and while marginalized people/bodies are square pegs in this round world that doesn’t mean we don’t deserve to take up space 💗
Rating: 4.5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and The Dial Press for the eARC!
I loved how vulnerable and open Sosenko was! It was so refreshing to read about her experiences-the good and the bad, facing her mistakes and privileges, celebrating how far she’s come even if it’s not perfect (because we’re human no one is perfect!). The author shares stories of her life from surgeries, diet culture, dating, fashion, shopping addiction, and her ADHD diagnosis.
I marked a lot of passages that were inspiring or relatable! There were a lot of relatable things for me, especially about body image and ADHD.
The only reason this wasn’t a 5 star read was because the chapters can be a bit long for my taste, so it was harder to fully focus and read multiple in one sitting/day (hello adhd!)
Overall Sosenko’s memoir is funny, tender, empowering, and thought provoking! She provides an important reminder that every body is different, and while marginalized people/bodies are square pegs in this round world that doesn’t mean we don’t deserve to take up space 💗
Rating: 4.5 stars
May 6, 2025
05.06.2025 / happy release day to this fantastic memoir!! I hope everybody gets a chance at reading this and feeling maybe a little less alone and a lot more understood 💖
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i don't know if i can begin to find the right words to accurately review i'll look so hot in a coffin, and what impact it had on me while reading it.
what i can say is that it's a powerful, raw, incredibly open memoir, told through a voice, sosenko's, that teeters in a perfect way between laugh out loud funny (pootsies!!) while, two lines down, smacking you in the face with the most accurately worded paragraph of what it means to be disconnected from one's body, to strive for invisibility, to belong to those that are "blurry" in the camera lens eye of modern society. as sosenko herself says, there is strenght in numbers, and no feeling was more powerful for me while reading this memoir than that of being deeply understood, of standing in a group with somebody telling me "yeah, it happens and it sucks but you have agency over how and how much it affects you". the writing is quick and accessible, almost comparable to speaking with a friend, as well as extremely poignant, so much so that sometimes i had to stop reading just to stare into the void and let every sillable sink in.
i dare say that EVERYONE should read this if they can, mindful of trigger warnings, either to receive a glimpse of a life they may not know, to learn something (like not feeling entitled to comment on other people's bodies!), or simply to feel understood and realize how much power we have in making our own choices with our own fundamental, beautiful bodies.
thank you to netgalley and random house publishing for the arc!
_____________________________
i don't know if i can begin to find the right words to accurately review i'll look so hot in a coffin, and what impact it had on me while reading it.
what i can say is that it's a powerful, raw, incredibly open memoir, told through a voice, sosenko's, that teeters in a perfect way between laugh out loud funny (pootsies!!) while, two lines down, smacking you in the face with the most accurately worded paragraph of what it means to be disconnected from one's body, to strive for invisibility, to belong to those that are "blurry" in the camera lens eye of modern society. as sosenko herself says, there is strenght in numbers, and no feeling was more powerful for me while reading this memoir than that of being deeply understood, of standing in a group with somebody telling me "yeah, it happens and it sucks but you have agency over how and how much it affects you". the writing is quick and accessible, almost comparable to speaking with a friend, as well as extremely poignant, so much so that sometimes i had to stop reading just to stare into the void and let every sillable sink in.
i dare say that EVERYONE should read this if they can, mindful of trigger warnings, either to receive a glimpse of a life they may not know, to learn something (like not feeling entitled to comment on other people's bodies!), or simply to feel understood and realize how much power we have in making our own choices with our own fundamental, beautiful bodies.
thank you to netgalley and random house publishing for the arc!
Read
November 23, 2024Carla Sosenko wrote a raw and honest memoir about her and life and struggles she’s overcome. I think this novel can help many people understand why we feel the way about it our bodies for whatever reason and how we too can learn to de the good in them. I think Sosenko is honest in her life stories and doesn’t shy away from the good and the bad that each day that we have.
I find it hard to judge memoirs because of the context of them and how people write about themselves, but overall I think many people can find comfort and hope in her story and relate to her in various level.
*thanks to NetGalley for an ARC*
I find it hard to judge memoirs because of the context of them and how people write about themselves, but overall I think many people can find comfort and hope in her story and relate to her in various level.
*thanks to NetGalley for an ARC*
March 5, 2025
This book offers readers an intimate, front-row experience of the author's life, inviting us to navigate her journey with curiosity. The narrative evokes emotions—from moments that might make us cringe to instances that tug at our heartstrings or even stir feelings of outrage. The author's storytelling is imbued with wit and, at times, a palpable anger, which is understandable given the contexts she explores. Occasionally, the prose adopts a preachy tone, prompting reflection and, perhaps, debate.
While certain sections of the book may spark discussions or even disagreements, it's important to emphasize the limited representation that specific communities receive in mainstream media. In this light, the author's contribution is both significant and commendable. Her humor, self-awareness, and overall attitude shine through, painting a picture of someone many would cherish as a friend.
This book serves as a unique portal into diverse lived experiences. It will likely resonate with readers who are genuinely curious about others and want to broaden their understanding of perspectives different from their own.
While certain sections of the book may spark discussions or even disagreements, it's important to emphasize the limited representation that specific communities receive in mainstream media. In this light, the author's contribution is both significant and commendable. Her humor, self-awareness, and overall attitude shine through, painting a picture of someone many would cherish as a friend.
This book serves as a unique portal into diverse lived experiences. It will likely resonate with readers who are genuinely curious about others and want to broaden their understanding of perspectives different from their own.
October 26, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was most interested in this book because of the syndrome she has. My husband has this and I have a disability that I try to hide. So some of this book was relatable.
She writes with honesty and humor as she navigates her childhood then onto adult relationships.
I was most interested in this book because of the syndrome she has. My husband has this and I have a disability that I try to hide. So some of this book was relatable.
She writes with honesty and humor as she navigates her childhood then onto adult relationships.
June 25, 2025
4/5
A quick, darkly funny, and painstakingly honest memoir about what it’s like to live with a physical deformity and, at its very core, live as a woman in an urban centre throughout periods of immense societal change and scrutiny.
I do think that I need to start reading the memoirs of people from similar backgrounds as myself again to curb my existential distaste towards members of the upper class, but Sosenko was, at the very least, forthcoming about her privilege.
A quick, darkly funny, and painstakingly honest memoir about what it’s like to live with a physical deformity and, at its very core, live as a woman in an urban centre throughout periods of immense societal change and scrutiny.
I do think that I need to start reading the memoirs of people from similar backgrounds as myself again to curb my existential distaste towards members of the upper class, but Sosenko was, at the very least, forthcoming about her privilege.
April 29, 2025
[4.75]
I DEVOURED this book! Honestly, if I didn't have to be a productive member of society (aka go to work and at least look productive or yknow, feed myself and my husband), I would have read this all the way through in one sitting. It's been really hit and miss with memoirs this year, but this is the one I wish every other one I've read was like. This memoir is for anyone who feels "less than" because of the way their body looks, the way their mind works, or simply because society says there's something wrong with being a person in 2025. I related to so many of the feelings and experiences Carla discusses, which made me feel seen and understood. And Carla sprinkles her love of parentheses throughout the book (which I now realize is a very ADHD thing and I should probably get that checked out). Truly, if you're "weird" in any capacity, you'll love this memoir. As someone who is actively working on self-acceptance - both inward and outward - this was exactly what I needed. Please, please, please give this one a shot!
Thank you to NetGalley, Carla Sosenko, and The Dial Press for a copy of this book. I received this ARC for free and am leaving a review voluntarily.
I DEVOURED this book! Honestly, if I didn't have to be a productive member of society (aka go to work and at least look productive or yknow, feed myself and my husband), I would have read this all the way through in one sitting. It's been really hit and miss with memoirs this year, but this is the one I wish every other one I've read was like. This memoir is for anyone who feels "less than" because of the way their body looks, the way their mind works, or simply because society says there's something wrong with being a person in 2025. I related to so many of the feelings and experiences Carla discusses, which made me feel seen and understood. And Carla sprinkles her love of parentheses throughout the book (which I now realize is a very ADHD thing and I should probably get that checked out). Truly, if you're "weird" in any capacity, you'll love this memoir. As someone who is actively working on self-acceptance - both inward and outward - this was exactly what I needed. Please, please, please give this one a shot!
Thank you to NetGalley, Carla Sosenko, and The Dial Press for a copy of this book. I received this ARC for free and am leaving a review voluntarily.
January 31, 2025
In a candid and relatable yet unflinching account, Carla Sosenko, a renowned journalist and author whose work has graced the pages of esteemed publications such as The New York Times and Entertainment Weekly, shares her life experiences. Sosenko’s journey with Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome, a rare vascular disorder characterized by an excessive accumulation of flesh on her back, a hunched posture, and distinct leg sizes, among other symptoms.
Carla openly discusses anxiety, challenges with self-confidence, self-love, and acceptance. The narrative reads as if spoken directly to a close friend, evoking a sense of intimacy and understanding.
Highly recommend and enjoyed this read. Thank you to Random House, The Dial Press and Net Galley for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Carla openly discusses anxiety, challenges with self-confidence, self-love, and acceptance. The narrative reads as if spoken directly to a close friend, evoking a sense of intimacy and understanding.
Highly recommend and enjoyed this read. Thank you to Random House, The Dial Press and Net Galley for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 6, 2025
This book made me cry in my favorite coffee shop, but it's fine. I'll be back. They know me so they should be used to a few tears by now.
Sometimes a book finds you when it's meant to. I thought I'd relate to Sosenko's story, and I was right, but often in ways I didn't expect. Even if you don't see yourself in these pages, Carla is intelligent and entertaining, and I flew through this book even as it made me reflect, albeit uncomfortably, to my own circumstances.
Fine, Carla. I'll swim*.
*iykyk
Sometimes a book finds you when it's meant to. I thought I'd relate to Sosenko's story, and I was right, but often in ways I didn't expect. Even if you don't see yourself in these pages, Carla is intelligent and entertaining, and I flew through this book even as it made me reflect, albeit uncomfortably, to my own circumstances.
Fine, Carla. I'll swim*.
*iykyk
May 28, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley and Random House for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. I was not familiar with the author but was drawn in by the title and the cover. This memoir is touching, candid and humorous. The author has a type of body deformity caused by rare disorder that has resulted in a large mass on her back, uneven sized legs and a hunched posture. Having to deal with this as a young child on, she has tried to hide or disguise it but has also tried to just show it as it is. She shares stories about having liposuction at a young age, attending weight watchers to lose weight and trying Ozempic, being in a high profile career and her obsession with fashion. Overall, the world looks at her as not enough and an outsider for being disabled but she comes to the realization that she is just different and a place where she can accept and embrace her body for what it is.
October 7, 2025
2.5 stars
June 18, 2025
A raw, insightful, often hilarious memoir about one womans experience living with a deformity and her journey to self-love and acceptance.
I love a memoir, especially one where I can read something that makes me feel enlightened or enriched in some way, and I'll Look So Hot In A Coffin definitely did that. I wasn't familiar with Carla before reading her book, but honestly, she's like a breath of fresh air.
Carla lives with Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome, something I knew little about before and spent a long time hiding away, receiving surgery at only eight years old and wondering how she was ever going to be accepted into a society that places so much emphasis on the way we look. She examines diet culture and fat phobia, and her journey with both living with a difference and her journey with her body in a completely candid way and as a plus size woman who's also been victim to diet culture there were so many parts I related to and it's refreshing to see someone talk about this honestly.
Ultimately, this book is a celebration of womanhood and, yes, our differences but also what unites us and the battles we face regarding self-image and mental health.
Warm, funny, and easy to read but also incredibly emotional and tender. I absolutely loved this book, and although I don't like to review someone's life story essentially because, actually, who am I to comment! I'd highly recommend this one.
I love a memoir, especially one where I can read something that makes me feel enlightened or enriched in some way, and I'll Look So Hot In A Coffin definitely did that. I wasn't familiar with Carla before reading her book, but honestly, she's like a breath of fresh air.
Carla lives with Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome, something I knew little about before and spent a long time hiding away, receiving surgery at only eight years old and wondering how she was ever going to be accepted into a society that places so much emphasis on the way we look. She examines diet culture and fat phobia, and her journey with both living with a difference and her journey with her body in a completely candid way and as a plus size woman who's also been victim to diet culture there were so many parts I related to and it's refreshing to see someone talk about this honestly.
Ultimately, this book is a celebration of womanhood and, yes, our differences but also what unites us and the battles we face regarding self-image and mental health.
Warm, funny, and easy to read but also incredibly emotional and tender. I absolutely loved this book, and although I don't like to review someone's life story essentially because, actually, who am I to comment! I'd highly recommend this one.
July 17, 2025
I had high hopes.
Too high. This reads as an empty self-absorbed manifesto over… nothing. Carla has potential but she’d rather talk about how that phrase is anxiety inducing and screw everyone that sees potential!
Do yourself a favor and read a different book because you won’t gain anything from this one.
Too high. This reads as an empty self-absorbed manifesto over… nothing. Carla has potential but she’d rather talk about how that phrase is anxiety inducing and screw everyone that sees potential!
Do yourself a favor and read a different book because you won’t gain anything from this one.
January 14, 2025
Well I devoured this book in one sitting.
This was a lot of things: raw, real, vulnerable, hilariousAF, relatable, and made me want to be besties with Carla Sosenko.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this book before it has been released! I shall sing its praises to all of the bookish-humans in my life!
This was a lot of things: raw, real, vulnerable, hilariousAF, relatable, and made me want to be besties with Carla Sosenko.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this book before it has been released! I shall sing its praises to all of the bookish-humans in my life!
May 22, 2025
3.5 stars. I wasn’t previously aware of Carla Sosenko before reading this book, but the title and book cover really caught my attention. Carla describes her childhood living with and navigating doctors and medical procedures to treat Klippel-Trénaunay syndrome. K-T as Carla calls it, is a rare, lifelong genetic condition that affects the development of blood vessels, soft tissues, bones, and sometimes the lymphatic system, and is characterized by a triad of symptoms: abnormal bone and soft tissue growth, venous malformations, and a port-wine stain birthmark. Carla starts off her book highlighting that while K-T can be life threatening or a disability to some, she is lucky in that regard. K-T has, however, provided her with a body that is visibly different.
Carla’s family treated the hypertrophy of tissue on her back and leg with liposuction procedures at a young age, and she’s had the varicose veins embolized as an adult. I’ve seen other reviewers mention the privilege Carla clearly has had in her experience with K-T, and while that is a valid point in her unique experience with K-T, I don’t think it takes away from the impacts all of these experiences have on shaping who Carla has become. While it may be difficult for others with K-T without that privilege to feel they can relate or achieve the same successful and normal life, I’m not sure that was the point of Carla sharing her life with us.
In Carla’s life, it seems she has been very lucky to be surrounded by supportive friends and family, had treatment options available to her, and never seemed to struggle for money or success. She shares dating woes that are comical and generally normal seeming, though her personal anxieties about her appearance certainly change the perspective. She’s experienced great success in her career, despite her anxiety and adhd.
I really enjoyed Carla’s dark humor and her snarkiness throughout the book. She is a good storyteller, and I appreciate her sharing her life with readers.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Carla’s family treated the hypertrophy of tissue on her back and leg with liposuction procedures at a young age, and she’s had the varicose veins embolized as an adult. I’ve seen other reviewers mention the privilege Carla clearly has had in her experience with K-T, and while that is a valid point in her unique experience with K-T, I don’t think it takes away from the impacts all of these experiences have on shaping who Carla has become. While it may be difficult for others with K-T without that privilege to feel they can relate or achieve the same successful and normal life, I’m not sure that was the point of Carla sharing her life with us.
In Carla’s life, it seems she has been very lucky to be surrounded by supportive friends and family, had treatment options available to her, and never seemed to struggle for money or success. She shares dating woes that are comical and generally normal seeming, though her personal anxieties about her appearance certainly change the perspective. She’s experienced great success in her career, despite her anxiety and adhd.
I really enjoyed Carla’s dark humor and her snarkiness throughout the book. She is a good storyteller, and I appreciate her sharing her life with readers.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2025
I received a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Sosenko's memoir was interesting, though not what I anticipated. There are many humorous stories about her upbringing in New York, anecdotes about dating and relationships, and a strong sense of her birth family and her place in it. She does address her disability and the impact it has had on the people she was/is in close relationships, and odd, even overtly rude, exchanges with strangers. Still, I was often left feeling like she skimmed the surface - as though I knew what happened but didn't have a deeper sense of her reactions and feelings about major life events. Sosenko's focus often seems to be on finding a witty punchline rather than deep introspection. None of this is to say that it is a bad or unenjoyable book, just one I had very different expectations of - perhaps if I'd started the book expecting more levity and humor, I would have enjoyed it more.
Sosenko's memoir was interesting, though not what I anticipated. There are many humorous stories about her upbringing in New York, anecdotes about dating and relationships, and a strong sense of her birth family and her place in it. She does address her disability and the impact it has had on the people she was/is in close relationships, and odd, even overtly rude, exchanges with strangers. Still, I was often left feeling like she skimmed the surface - as though I knew what happened but didn't have a deeper sense of her reactions and feelings about major life events. Sosenko's focus often seems to be on finding a witty punchline rather than deep introspection. None of this is to say that it is a bad or unenjoyable book, just one I had very different expectations of - perhaps if I'd started the book expecting more levity and humor, I would have enjoyed it more.
March 6, 2025
A talented writer, Carla Sosenko, shares her deep personal experiences with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome (KTS) – something many of us have never heard of before.
She calls it a cosmetic disorder as it gives the body an unusual appearance starting at birth. She has varicose veins, one foot that is larger and extra fat in some areas of her body. She has had plenty of painful surgeries and years of therapy.
From a young age, she has struggled to fit into social situations in a country where people expect women to be thin and pretty (even though she is). As an adult, she has been on a series of diets and taken different drugs to help with her anxieties. It’s fascinating as she shares her relationships with her parents, boyfriends, doctors and therapists.
There is one area that she left out for the most part: her career. While she has been successful as a freelance journalist in NYC, I wish she included more about it. I admire her for educating readers with what she has endured and I hope those that have this rare genetic defect are able to find support groups.
My thanks to The Dial Press and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book with an expected release date of May 6, 2025.
She calls it a cosmetic disorder as it gives the body an unusual appearance starting at birth. She has varicose veins, one foot that is larger and extra fat in some areas of her body. She has had plenty of painful surgeries and years of therapy.
From a young age, she has struggled to fit into social situations in a country where people expect women to be thin and pretty (even though she is). As an adult, she has been on a series of diets and taken different drugs to help with her anxieties. It’s fascinating as she shares her relationships with her parents, boyfriends, doctors and therapists.
There is one area that she left out for the most part: her career. While she has been successful as a freelance journalist in NYC, I wish she included more about it. I admire her for educating readers with what she has endured and I hope those that have this rare genetic defect are able to find support groups.
My thanks to The Dial Press and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this book with an expected release date of May 6, 2025.
January 31, 2025
I really enjoyed Carla Sosenko's memoir- a perfect read for a few sittings, filled with opportunities for introspection. I was not familiar with any of Carla's work before hearing about this, and I think this memoir is a great introduction to her. Sosenko's wit kept me entertained throughout, as well as her way of explaining things that may not occur to everyone. I found her perspective on early 2000s diet culture and shopping additions really interesting, especially considering I was a kid at that time, so I don't have the same sort of nostalgia or relation to that decade myself. In general, there wasn't much I could relate to, but that's perfectly fine; a memoir is an inherently self-centered piece of work, and I don't believe readers should attempt to see themselves in everyone's story. That being said, I particularly enjoyed the chapter on anxiety, and how people perceive accomplished people as being effortless. Overall a very valuable read, by a knowledgeable and entertaining writer!
February 19, 2025
3.5 stars!!!!
Carla Sosenko’s writing is filled with humor! She takes you on a journey through stand out moments of her childhood into adulthood, and how these glimpses into the past helped shape her into who she is today!
Some parts of the book were sad/emotional, some had me so angry for her, and others had me cheering her on for being herself in a world that is so hard on people they see as different!
I found her to be courageous, tough, vulnerable, blunt, and relatable based off her story telling!
FAV QUOTE:
“The much more important part is understanding that nothing about you—not your body, not your brain, not your feelings—is wrong. You are just you.” <——-💖
Thank you to Net Galley, the author, and the publisher for a copy of the ebook in exchange for an honest review!
Carla Sosenko’s writing is filled with humor! She takes you on a journey through stand out moments of her childhood into adulthood, and how these glimpses into the past helped shape her into who she is today!
Some parts of the book were sad/emotional, some had me so angry for her, and others had me cheering her on for being herself in a world that is so hard on people they see as different!
I found her to be courageous, tough, vulnerable, blunt, and relatable based off her story telling!
FAV QUOTE:
“The much more important part is understanding that nothing about you—not your body, not your brain, not your feelings—is wrong. You are just you.” <——-💖
Thank you to Net Galley, the author, and the publisher for a copy of the ebook in exchange for an honest review!
March 9, 2025
Carla Sosenko was diagnosed with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome at a young age which resulted in physical deformities including in a hump of fat on her back, legs of different lengths and dimensions, port wine staining on the skin and other medical problems internally and externally.
In this brutally honest, vulnerable, and funny memoir, Carla speaks about the struggles she has encountered having a physical deformity while living in a society where your outward appearance determines your value. At times truly heartbreaking; Carla’s message of resilience, hope, and acceptance is one I will take with me always.
Carla discusses the dangers of diet culture and negative body image stigma purported by our society.
Carla is so relatable, every woman needs to read this book. In fact, every person needs to read this book and if it doesn’t resonate with you, then you need to check your privilege.
In this brutally honest, vulnerable, and funny memoir, Carla speaks about the struggles she has encountered having a physical deformity while living in a society where your outward appearance determines your value. At times truly heartbreaking; Carla’s message of resilience, hope, and acceptance is one I will take with me always.
Carla discusses the dangers of diet culture and negative body image stigma purported by our society.
Carla is so relatable, every woman needs to read this book. In fact, every person needs to read this book and if it doesn’t resonate with you, then you need to check your privilege.
December 22, 2025
I'll Look So Hot in a Coffin is a book that discusses a genuinely important topic, and the writer needs to be praised for her effort to put it forward so directly. But the book remains frustratingly uneven in its writing and its dealing with its subject. While some parts of it could be of immense interest for people who are still waiting for social validation of their bodies, other portions of the book seem like the writer unloads her resentments from life on her reader, which feels unfair.
Read the full version here
Read the full version here
February 22, 2025
Thank you Random House Publishing Group - Random House for the copy of I’ll Look So Hot In A Coffin by Carla Sosenkoy. I don’t read lots of memoirs, and I have never read one by someone I had never heard of, but I'm glad I read this one. Sosenkoy writes humorously about her disability, other peoples’ reactions, and how they treat her, and her experiences are eye-opening. If you enjoy her humor you will love this book. I really appreciated how she explored themes like weight control and how people feel entitled to judge and comment on other people’s bodies. This wasn't always an enjoyable read (some people are awful), but I loved getting Sosenkoy’s perspective on life. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4
April 8, 2025
Thanks to Random House and Netgalley for this advance copy!
What a powerful and funny book. I loved how Carla walks us through her life and her vision of her own body. It was vulnerable, real, funny, and irreverent at times. She educates about her life from birth without moralizing it, but doesn't give herself or others space to pity her. Instead, she lets us in and gives us an honest vision of her successes and challenges and it is great. A quick read, there is a lot happening on each page and I gobbled it up. Just a fantastic memoir.
What a powerful and funny book. I loved how Carla walks us through her life and her vision of her own body. It was vulnerable, real, funny, and irreverent at times. She educates about her life from birth without moralizing it, but doesn't give herself or others space to pity her. Instead, she lets us in and gives us an honest vision of her successes and challenges and it is great. A quick read, there is a lot happening on each page and I gobbled it up. Just a fantastic memoir.
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