If there is anything I know to be true, it is that the universe or god or whatever is out there is urging us to go through the wilderness and see where it takes us, and stay true to who we are, no matter what others may say.
As a young adult, Maddy Garrett started to question her religion. Previously a devout Christian, she realized that she no longer wanted to feel ashamed of her body, sexuality, thoughts, and lifestyle. She turned to poetry to capture her uncertainty as to whether or not the belief system she grew up in was able to grow with her.
The Unlearning is a poetry collection that offers an intimate look into Maddy's decision to leave her faith. Broken into five sections, this book details Maddy's journey in chronological order, from Growing Up in It to The Rebirth, and concluding with What I Would Go Back and Tell Myself. Maddy's poetry feels familiar yet analytical as she reflects on her past without a yearning to return to it.
Born and raised in Orange County, California, Maddy Garrett has always had a passion for writing and storytelling. Now living in San Diego, California, she is a creative writer who sees a future filled with even more published works to come. An avid reader, plant and pet lover, and adventurer, you can usually find Maddy at her regular coffee shop with a thrifted book and a million ideas for her next big project. On weekends, trips out of town are the regular. Traveling and seeing new places is much of what inspires her work and gets her pen to paper. Follow her on Instagram or visit her website to read more about Maddy. www.maddygarrett.com @just.my.ramblings @whoa_maddy_actually_
This poetry book is a stunning exploration of identity and rebirth -- A young women's journey leaving her religion. So much to relate to on these pages!
This book was such a beautiful and honest exploration of the author’s journey questioning her beliefs and upbringing. It was thoughtful, beautiful, and resonated so hard. I highlighted so many pages and took pictures of several poems I want to revisit again and again. Such a worthwhile read. I will definitely pick it up and enjoy again.