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Unbreakable
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January 1, 2026
This was a heavy read. Jelena’s dad is, as we all know, AWFUL. She could win a match 6–0, 6–1 and still be physically hit and verbally abused for losing a single game. It’s honestly insane, and no one should ever have to endure what Jelena did.
From a literary point of view, I found the book very repetitive and bleak. I was also disappointed that we don’t learn much about her life after tennis. I kept wanting something positive to happen.
That said, the book definitely made me think. These aren’t Jelena’s lessons, but the ones I took away from her story:
** Be an independent woman
What really struck me is that Jelena went straight from her abusive father to a possessive partner, and then into another long-term relationship. While Tin ultimately seemed healthy, she was never truly on her own. As someone who’s been single for a long time, it reinforced for me how important it is for women to know how to stand on their own feet — emotionally, practically, and financially.
** Speak your truth early
As a teenager, someone reports Jelena’s dad to the police and he’s arrested — but out of fear, she lies and protects him. I couldn’t stop wondering how different her life might have been if she’d felt safe enough to tell the truth. It really highlights how crucial it is to teach kids that it’s okay — and important — to speak up, even when it’s terrifying.
** It’s okay to go no contact
I found it baffling that Jelena tried multiple times to reconcile with her father. Why? You don’t owe your parents access to your life if they’re abusive. This book reinforced for me that cutting someone off can be an act of self-preservation, not cruelty.
** Trust your instincts
Jelena fired her coach more than once but kept giving him chances because of family ties. I wanted to scream “NO!” If something isn’t working, you’re allowed to walk away. Protect your peace.
I'd love to learn about Jelena's journey to becoming a successful commenter and scoring a book deal. I imagine there's some great life lessons there.
From a literary point of view, I found the book very repetitive and bleak. I was also disappointed that we don’t learn much about her life after tennis. I kept wanting something positive to happen.
That said, the book definitely made me think. These aren’t Jelena’s lessons, but the ones I took away from her story:
** Be an independent woman
What really struck me is that Jelena went straight from her abusive father to a possessive partner, and then into another long-term relationship. While Tin ultimately seemed healthy, she was never truly on her own. As someone who’s been single for a long time, it reinforced for me how important it is for women to know how to stand on their own feet — emotionally, practically, and financially.
** Speak your truth early
As a teenager, someone reports Jelena’s dad to the police and he’s arrested — but out of fear, she lies and protects him. I couldn’t stop wondering how different her life might have been if she’d felt safe enough to tell the truth. It really highlights how crucial it is to teach kids that it’s okay — and important — to speak up, even when it’s terrifying.
** It’s okay to go no contact
I found it baffling that Jelena tried multiple times to reconcile with her father. Why? You don’t owe your parents access to your life if they’re abusive. This book reinforced for me that cutting someone off can be an act of self-preservation, not cruelty.
** Trust your instincts
Jelena fired her coach more than once but kept giving him chances because of family ties. I wanted to scream “NO!” If something isn’t working, you’re allowed to walk away. Protect your peace.
I'd love to learn about Jelena's journey to becoming a successful commenter and scoring a book deal. I imagine there's some great life lessons there.
Displaying 1 of 1 review