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So Damn Sketchy
Bonnie Kent is nine years old when she loses her father. She feels that part of herself was lost with him, and she sets out to find someone or something to fill the aching void. Armed with an attitude of ‘act first, think never,’ she morphs into a hedonistic hot mess and loses herself in the world of parties, drugs, and one-night stands. Before long, people in Bonnie’s life begin drifting away from her, and she finds herself alone and at the mercy of her confused and anguished thoughts. Broke, single, and reduced to living in her car, she is forced to choose between giving in to her new reputation as the headcase with the pretty face or take ownership of her choices and navigate through her unresolved grief.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 26, 2022
54 people are currently reading
311 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
July 27, 2022
Its taken me a while to write this review as I dont often feel like a book hits me the way So Damn Sketchy has.
I felt right from the first page that this book was written just for me to read, its one of those books.
Its a very emotional book with talks of death, suicide, drug and alcohol use, homelessness and sex.
Bonnie is a 9 year old girl who speaks about the trouble she faces as she grows up, with her dad passing away, her mum growing distance and being left to deal with her emotions and esentially her life herself.
She looks up to her big brother Adam and Sean who has been living with the family for years.
The book is so well written and the chapters flow in time order so nothing feels like it doesnt make sense or things are missed or skipped over.
Bonnie Kents writing makes you feel like you are in the moment and can physically feel like pain and anxiety that she is dealing with in each situation that arises.
The last half of the book just made me so sad and cry a fair few times and I just felt helpless. Reading along made me feel like at times I was back in my teenage years.
This was an amazing book, a powerful and moving read and this one will always stay with me!!
The only downside to So Damn Sketchy is I was left with a lot of questions and need a sequel❤️
I felt right from the first page that this book was written just for me to read, its one of those books.
Its a very emotional book with talks of death, suicide, drug and alcohol use, homelessness and sex.
Bonnie is a 9 year old girl who speaks about the trouble she faces as she grows up, with her dad passing away, her mum growing distance and being left to deal with her emotions and esentially her life herself.
She looks up to her big brother Adam and Sean who has been living with the family for years.
The book is so well written and the chapters flow in time order so nothing feels like it doesnt make sense or things are missed or skipped over.
Bonnie Kents writing makes you feel like you are in the moment and can physically feel like pain and anxiety that she is dealing with in each situation that arises.
The last half of the book just made me so sad and cry a fair few times and I just felt helpless. Reading along made me feel like at times I was back in my teenage years.
This was an amazing book, a powerful and moving read and this one will always stay with me!!
The only downside to So Damn Sketchy is I was left with a lot of questions and need a sequel❤️
April 23, 2023
I don’t often read books with this writing style or intense subject matter. So while it is a short read, it took me a while.
It felt like I was reading Bonnie’s journal during a heartbreaking, destructive time in her life. The autobiographical novel was confronting and often uncomfortable at times to read. I wanted to hug 9yr old Bonnie and tell her everything is going to be okay, I wanted to shake sense into teenage Bonnie and to see more of Bonnie after her life was back together.
It takes courage and a sense of self to rise out of all that Bonnie endured. To self publish and out this out there takes it to another level and she should be immensely proud of what she has achieved.
It felt like I was reading Bonnie’s journal during a heartbreaking, destructive time in her life. The autobiographical novel was confronting and often uncomfortable at times to read. I wanted to hug 9yr old Bonnie and tell her everything is going to be okay, I wanted to shake sense into teenage Bonnie and to see more of Bonnie after her life was back together.
It takes courage and a sense of self to rise out of all that Bonnie endured. To self publish and out this out there takes it to another level and she should be immensely proud of what she has achieved.
June 28, 2022
Its 2.40am, and only mere hours since I started reading So Damn Sketchy by Bonnie Kent.
I purchased this book looking for something to read over a few nights whilst up with my new baby, however sleep when the baby sleeps went out the window as I could NOT stop reading. I have read this book cover to cover in record speed.
This book is a front seat view into the ups and downs Bonnie has encountered during her life. The trials and tribulations of a millennial girl coming of age, and coming into herself after enduring some incredible lows. So Damn Sketchy was at times confronting to read as it deals with triggers like drug and alcohol abuse, suicide and mental health, issues surrounding consent, eating disorders, and homelessness.
The chapters are broken down by age which gives the book a great flow and makes it incredibly easy to read.
The Author was raw and open in her writings about her story. I do not feel like there are any parts missing or parts that have been skimped over. The book is almost like a long diary entry where you can place yourself into the scenes. There were moments where I had tears in my eyes while she described her encounters with friends, family and men. Kent was able to describe feelings so well I could often feel the her anxiety, loneliness and sadness. My heart broke with her and for her as I read. She describes herself and the people mentioned throughout the book so clearly I feel as if I personally know them all.
There are references to MySpace, MSN, and orange fake tan, among other things, which are relatable as a young girl in the early to mid 2000’s . As I read it sinks in that I am a similar age and perhaps only a few decisions away from having similar experiences as the Author.
I had goosebumps as I read the final few sentences, and my hormonal ass cried one final time in the final notes from the author as she briefly and candidly mentions the outcome of her situation in current time.
This is a story of love, loss and hope. So Damn Sketchy is book about a fierce woman who chose keep fighting even when it seemed like there was nothing worth fighting for. Please read this book.
I purchased this book looking for something to read over a few nights whilst up with my new baby, however sleep when the baby sleeps went out the window as I could NOT stop reading. I have read this book cover to cover in record speed.
This book is a front seat view into the ups and downs Bonnie has encountered during her life. The trials and tribulations of a millennial girl coming of age, and coming into herself after enduring some incredible lows. So Damn Sketchy was at times confronting to read as it deals with triggers like drug and alcohol abuse, suicide and mental health, issues surrounding consent, eating disorders, and homelessness.
The chapters are broken down by age which gives the book a great flow and makes it incredibly easy to read.
The Author was raw and open in her writings about her story. I do not feel like there are any parts missing or parts that have been skimped over. The book is almost like a long diary entry where you can place yourself into the scenes. There were moments where I had tears in my eyes while she described her encounters with friends, family and men. Kent was able to describe feelings so well I could often feel the her anxiety, loneliness and sadness. My heart broke with her and for her as I read. She describes herself and the people mentioned throughout the book so clearly I feel as if I personally know them all.
There are references to MySpace, MSN, and orange fake tan, among other things, which are relatable as a young girl in the early to mid 2000’s . As I read it sinks in that I am a similar age and perhaps only a few decisions away from having similar experiences as the Author.
I had goosebumps as I read the final few sentences, and my hormonal ass cried one final time in the final notes from the author as she briefly and candidly mentions the outcome of her situation in current time.
This is a story of love, loss and hope. So Damn Sketchy is book about a fierce woman who chose keep fighting even when it seemed like there was nothing worth fighting for. Please read this book.
August 16, 2022
Thank you, BookSprout, for the ARC!
I’ve been on a memoir kick lately and, although I usually don’t rate them, here I am again.
Wow, Ms. Bonnie Kent, you have lived quite the life and it was a pleasure to read all about it here. This memoir-type of book does deal with a lot of heavy and raw themes, but I was able to read this one because the writing was, coincidentally, light and simple to understand without diminishing those themes. The book has a great flow (I think it being typed like a fiction story helped) and it was great to see how Bonnie grew up and changed over time. It was powerful and insightful, and I’m glad that slight spoilers she was able to recover and get back on her feet.
The ending had me smiling so much! You go, Bonnie!
I’ve been on a memoir kick lately and, although I usually don’t rate them, here I am again.
Wow, Ms. Bonnie Kent, you have lived quite the life and it was a pleasure to read all about it here. This memoir-type of book does deal with a lot of heavy and raw themes, but I was able to read this one because the writing was, coincidentally, light and simple to understand without diminishing those themes. The book has a great flow (I think it being typed like a fiction story helped) and it was great to see how Bonnie grew up and changed over time. It was powerful and insightful, and I’m glad that slight spoilers she was able to recover and get back on her feet.
The ending had me smiling so much! You go, Bonnie!
September 7, 2022
Title : so damn sketchy
Author: Bonnie Kent
Genre : fiction
The semi fictionalized memoir take you on an emotional ride.
When Bonnie's father passes away from cancer,Bonnie was just nine years old. And her long downward spiral begins. Bonnie faces struggle after struggle & doesn't always handle them the way you wish she should .
This book is beautiful memoir that is raw, real and show strength.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. It was one the most real reads I have had this year.
The ending was abrupt, & didn't finish the main character finalizing her happy ending. But since this is a memoir, this is fitting. Life doesn't get tied up in a pretty little blow
Last but not the least, thank you to the author for sharing your story, I hope you continue to heal.
Author: Bonnie Kent
Genre : fiction
The semi fictionalized memoir take you on an emotional ride.
When Bonnie's father passes away from cancer,Bonnie was just nine years old. And her long downward spiral begins. Bonnie faces struggle after struggle & doesn't always handle them the way you wish she should .
This book is beautiful memoir that is raw, real and show strength.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. It was one the most real reads I have had this year.
The ending was abrupt, & didn't finish the main character finalizing her happy ending. But since this is a memoir, this is fitting. Life doesn't get tied up in a pretty little blow
Last but not the least, thank you to the author for sharing your story, I hope you continue to heal.
August 1, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley, Bonnie Kemp and the publisher for providing me with an E-Arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The content in this book is heavy to read most of the time, so I’d advise checking trigger warnings.
It was raw and emotional and felt like reading diary extracts at times. I love how the story was in a timeline from when she was a child, as it gave more context about where her struggles began.
The content in this book is heavy to read most of the time, so I’d advise checking trigger warnings.
It was raw and emotional and felt like reading diary extracts at times. I love how the story was in a timeline from when she was a child, as it gave more context about where her struggles began.
September 6, 2022
Sometimes losing someone changes you for the worse.
This is an Australian novel about a nine-year-old girl named Bonnie, who lost her father and felt that a part of herself was lost as well. This book informs us of the ways she chose to handle her grievances and how they landed her in trouble.
Oh Bonnie, how much I felt for you when you lost your father. This is a feeling I can truly understand. It's like you have lost everything.
Bonnie's life was full of struggles. She missed her mother's affection and attention after her father's demise. She struggled as a child.
In times like this, everyone wants a person who is there for them in every situation, but she didn't find any. I wish no one had to go through something like this. At times, I felt helpless and sad, wishing somehow I could save Bonnie from the awful things she faced. I liked how she navigated through her unresolved grief and acknowledged self-destruction.
The writer has chosen a very apt title for the book. It was indeed very sketchy. The book was raw, honest, and heartbreaking. It was quite heavy at times.
Hats off to you, Bonnie.
Definitely recommended.
Trigger Warnings: Drug use, eating disorders, sexual abuse, mental health, death of a parent, suicidal thoughts, and homelessness.
This is an Australian novel about a nine-year-old girl named Bonnie, who lost her father and felt that a part of herself was lost as well. This book informs us of the ways she chose to handle her grievances and how they landed her in trouble.
Oh Bonnie, how much I felt for you when you lost your father. This is a feeling I can truly understand. It's like you have lost everything.
Bonnie's life was full of struggles. She missed her mother's affection and attention after her father's demise. She struggled as a child.
In times like this, everyone wants a person who is there for them in every situation, but she didn't find any. I wish no one had to go through something like this. At times, I felt helpless and sad, wishing somehow I could save Bonnie from the awful things she faced. I liked how she navigated through her unresolved grief and acknowledged self-destruction.
The writer has chosen a very apt title for the book. It was indeed very sketchy. The book was raw, honest, and heartbreaking. It was quite heavy at times.
Hats off to you, Bonnie.
Definitely recommended.
Trigger Warnings: Drug use, eating disorders, sexual abuse, mental health, death of a parent, suicidal thoughts, and homelessness.
September 9, 2022
Book: So Damn Sketchy
Author: Bonnie Kent
Genre: Heartbreak, emotional
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
In my words, this book is quite touching and full of ups and downs. When I went throughout the book it made me emotional too. According to the story it states about a girl named Bonnie. She lost her father at a young age. Due to the above-stated incident, she isn't guided well in life and as a result, she moves forward on the wrong path.
She didn't have a clue about what to do and where to go to solve the mess created.
She gets two choices to live reality or die.
There were unexpected turns in the story.
It was a good read
Author: Bonnie Kent
Genre: Heartbreak, emotional
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
In my words, this book is quite touching and full of ups and downs. When I went throughout the book it made me emotional too. According to the story it states about a girl named Bonnie. She lost her father at a young age. Due to the above-stated incident, she isn't guided well in life and as a result, she moves forward on the wrong path.
She didn't have a clue about what to do and where to go to solve the mess created.
She gets two choices to live reality or die.
There were unexpected turns in the story.
It was a good read
July 10, 2022
I loved this book! Whilst it’s not a walk in the park light read. It’s very heavy at times. Bonnie shares her life story which features some dark times.
Though we had very different lives, I felt I could relate with Bonnie throughout the book and it took me right back to my teenage years.
I’m proud of what Bonnie has overcome in her life and I take my hat off to her for finding the courage to change her life for the better.
Please note the heavy content before picking this book up.
Though we had very different lives, I felt I could relate with Bonnie throughout the book and it took me right back to my teenage years.
I’m proud of what Bonnie has overcome in her life and I take my hat off to her for finding the courage to change her life for the better.
Please note the heavy content before picking this book up.
Read
August 31, 2023Since this is the author’s personal story, I don’t feel like I should give it a rating but I’m glad I read this. 🤍
January 24, 2025
no fav quote
this book was messy and so raw. story of a young child who's life gets flipped around in ways unimaginable. abrupt, yet sweet ending. engaged and enraged all at once.
this book was messy and so raw. story of a young child who's life gets flipped around in ways unimaginable. abrupt, yet sweet ending. engaged and enraged all at once.
January 8, 2025
This was supposed to be a quick read before I slept - but it’s nearly 1am and I am reeling from one of the best books I have ever read.
It was so well written, exploring issues such as drugs, suicide, eating disorders and loss with so much honesty.
I couldn’t help but love all of the characters, even when I hated them.
I want to hate Bonnie’s mum, but I understand too. Im desperate to know why Sean was allowed to get away with it, or if it was perhaps Bonnie’s perspective that made him seem so awful. Lachlan’s parents were the true heroes, because as amazing as he was towards the end, they were the ones who saved her.
It was so well written, exploring issues such as drugs, suicide, eating disorders and loss with so much honesty.
I couldn’t help but love all of the characters, even when I hated them.
I want to hate Bonnie’s mum, but I understand too. Im desperate to know why Sean was allowed to get away with it, or if it was perhaps Bonnie’s perspective that made him seem so awful. Lachlan’s parents were the true heroes, because as amazing as he was towards the end, they were the ones who saved her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2022
Please check trigger warnings before reading this, as it covers some pretty deep subjects.
This book broke my heart, and then fixed it, and I genuinely cried towards the end of the book. The story is told in such a beautiful way, and it felt so raw and original, and I truly did feel connected to each of the characters.
Bonnie had such an incredibly hard life and had to fight through so much, and she truly made you feel like you were reading the story of Bonnies life and felt everything she did. I enjoyed reading about all of her different romantic relationships, some more strange and maybe less ethical than others.
I truly fell in love with Lachlan and enjoyed all of the scenes with him in this book, his character was so sweet and so caring, and even after a difficult start, the ending to the story truly hit me in the feels.
The last line truly had me crying, so if your about to read this, then please wait till the last sentence and it is so worth it after everything that happens.
I read this book in one day and basically one sitting, so if you start this just be warned that you won't be able to put this down, and that you will need tissues with you at all times.
5 stars. 0 spice.
This book broke my heart, and then fixed it, and I genuinely cried towards the end of the book. The story is told in such a beautiful way, and it felt so raw and original, and I truly did feel connected to each of the characters.
Bonnie had such an incredibly hard life and had to fight through so much, and she truly made you feel like you were reading the story of Bonnies life and felt everything she did. I enjoyed reading about all of her different romantic relationships, some more strange and maybe less ethical than others.
I truly fell in love with Lachlan and enjoyed all of the scenes with him in this book, his character was so sweet and so caring, and even after a difficult start, the ending to the story truly hit me in the feels.
The last line truly had me crying, so if your about to read this, then please wait till the last sentence and it is so worth it after everything that happens.
I read this book in one day and basically one sitting, so if you start this just be warned that you won't be able to put this down, and that you will need tissues with you at all times.
5 stars. 0 spice.
December 16, 2025
So Damn Sketchy is a fictionalized memoir, and it was the first time I had ever read anything quite like that. It’s a very interesting way to tell a story.
The book is basically a chronicle of the author’s daily life from a young age—a life that was often turbulent and traumatic. But ultimately, it’s a story of survival and getting through those hard times.
I found the book to be very emotional and totally engaging. It pulls you right into her world and doesn't let go. You really feel the weight of her experiences, but you also root for her as she survives everything thrown her way.
The book is basically a chronicle of the author’s daily life from a young age—a life that was often turbulent and traumatic. But ultimately, it’s a story of survival and getting through those hard times.
I found the book to be very emotional and totally engaging. It pulls you right into her world and doesn't let go. You really feel the weight of her experiences, but you also root for her as she survives everything thrown her way.
August 22, 2022
Thanks to Victory Editing and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book
I thought this book was. . . probably about 3.5 stars at best.
Now, I don't normally read memoirs, so maybe this is a problem for all of them, but I thought that this book was waaay to fast paced, and, because of this, it felt impersonal. Don't get me wrong, I could feel the emotion that Bonnie was feeling, but I couldn't feel myself in those experiences with her, simply because time was moving to fast to feel relatable. I realize that this book is trying to cover a very large period of time in a very short span of pages, and I don't have a solution to the problem except to say that maybe the author took "show, don't tell" to the extreme and perhaps could have skipped some of the less important years and simply told us what happened. But I digress.
I do wish Bonnie spent a little more time on the "climbing out" aspect of her life, because I needed it after that roller coaster of a book! The ending felt very rushed, and while I get that the book is about the worst years of her life and not all about her recovery, I wish there was just a little bit more of said recovery, or maybe even an epilogue about where she's at as she writes.
I do think that Bonnie did a great job of convey her emotion. I could feel what she was feeling all the way through the novel, which really helped illustrate what she was going through. The writing style of this book was also amazing. It was written in an easy, light tone, all without taking away from the weight of the experiences described. I also loved how she put her age at the time in the chapter titles. This really helped me, because I often have trouble picking up subtle text cues involving things like age.
So all in all, an okay read. It had some things about it that I really liked, and some things I really didn't, and in the end, they cancelled each other out.
I thought this book was. . . probably about 3.5 stars at best.
Now, I don't normally read memoirs, so maybe this is a problem for all of them, but I thought that this book was waaay to fast paced, and, because of this, it felt impersonal. Don't get me wrong, I could feel the emotion that Bonnie was feeling, but I couldn't feel myself in those experiences with her, simply because time was moving to fast to feel relatable. I realize that this book is trying to cover a very large period of time in a very short span of pages, and I don't have a solution to the problem except to say that maybe the author took "show, don't tell" to the extreme and perhaps could have skipped some of the less important years and simply told us what happened. But I digress.
I do wish Bonnie spent a little more time on the "climbing out" aspect of her life, because I needed it after that roller coaster of a book! The ending felt very rushed, and while I get that the book is about the worst years of her life and not all about her recovery, I wish there was just a little bit more of said recovery, or maybe even an epilogue about where she's at as she writes.
I do think that Bonnie did a great job of convey her emotion. I could feel what she was feeling all the way through the novel, which really helped illustrate what she was going through. The writing style of this book was also amazing. It was written in an easy, light tone, all without taking away from the weight of the experiences described. I also loved how she put her age at the time in the chapter titles. This really helped me, because I often have trouble picking up subtle text cues involving things like age.
So all in all, an okay read. It had some things about it that I really liked, and some things I really didn't, and in the end, they cancelled each other out.
August 4, 2022
So Damn Sketchy by Bonnie Kent is a memoir which covers a span of time from when Bonnie's father passed away at age 9 to shortly after her 21st birthday. Bonnie grew up in Melbourne, Australia, with her recently widowed mother, 3 siblings and her 15 year old brother's friend, Sean. Her mother really struggled to provide adequate supervision of her children which led to some dangerous behaviours in Bonnie's teen years. As Bonnie transitions into her late teens her long term and stable boyfriend Lachlan break up, she begins partying hard, and all of her family move away and essentially cut off all contact with her. When Bonnie turns 20 everything spirals and she quickly is in a very desperate situation facing homelessness, poverty, and significant mental health challenges. Sex, drugs and alcohol seem to be the only coping mechanisms she has and things get worse and worse. She needs help, and her saving grace comes from people she would least expect.
How to describe this book.... well I'll start by saying it is extremely powerful and almost impossible to put down. This book had my full attention from the first sentence to the authors note. It was extremely well written from the formatting to the style to the emotional connection Bonnie made with her readers, it is the best book I've read in a long time.
I go into way more depth on my blog: https://teachreadinspire.wixsite.com/... so pop over there to read more. I should also mention some content warnings: poverty, addiction, mental health, consent/molestation, eating disorders, suicide, loss of family member, drugs and alcohol. Thanks so much to Katie and Brey PA for giving me the chance to read and voluntarily review this book as part of a blog tour!
How to describe this book.... well I'll start by saying it is extremely powerful and almost impossible to put down. This book had my full attention from the first sentence to the authors note. It was extremely well written from the formatting to the style to the emotional connection Bonnie made with her readers, it is the best book I've read in a long time.
I go into way more depth on my blog: https://teachreadinspire.wixsite.com/... so pop over there to read more. I should also mention some content warnings: poverty, addiction, mental health, consent/molestation, eating disorders, suicide, loss of family member, drugs and alcohol. Thanks so much to Katie and Brey PA for giving me the chance to read and voluntarily review this book as part of a blog tour!
August 30, 2022
Recommended to Those Who:
Enjoy reading memoir’s that are written like a fiction novel.
Synopsis: At age 9 Bonnie Kent loses her father to cancer. Her grief from losing her dad sends her through a whirl wind of struggles. With Bonnie’s mother constantly working to support her family there is minimal adult supervision, giving Bonnie opportunity to take part in risky behaviors at a young age. These risky behaviors escalate through out the years, causing Bonnie to drift away from what she loved most, her family.
What I Liked: I enjoyed how each chapter represented a different age of Bonnie’s life. It kept the reader on track, understanding the different events that took place in her life at each age. It helped build the reader up to the reason why she struggled so much as she entered adulthood. Bonnie’s style of writing allows the reader to feel the emotions along with Bonnie. At times I found myself sad, wishing I could save Bonnie from the awful times she endured.
What I Wasn’t Crazy About: After reading this emotional rollercoaster of Bonnie’s life, I wish she would have told us more about how she overcame the obstacles in her life. Bonnie had a lot of struggles in life and to overcome all of that took courage and strength. Bonnie deserves to have the good things in her life acknowledged as well. The ending felt fairly rushed. I have so many more questions leaving me wanting more. Maybe a second book focused on recovery……
Trigger Warnings: Sexual abuse, Death of a parent, Drug use, Alcohol abuse, Eating disorders, Suicidal thoughts/attempts, Homelessness,
Available Now!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you, @katieandbreypa for providing me with a complimentary review copy. In no way has that influenced my voluntary review.
Enjoy reading memoir’s that are written like a fiction novel.
Synopsis: At age 9 Bonnie Kent loses her father to cancer. Her grief from losing her dad sends her through a whirl wind of struggles. With Bonnie’s mother constantly working to support her family there is minimal adult supervision, giving Bonnie opportunity to take part in risky behaviors at a young age. These risky behaviors escalate through out the years, causing Bonnie to drift away from what she loved most, her family.
What I Liked: I enjoyed how each chapter represented a different age of Bonnie’s life. It kept the reader on track, understanding the different events that took place in her life at each age. It helped build the reader up to the reason why she struggled so much as she entered adulthood. Bonnie’s style of writing allows the reader to feel the emotions along with Bonnie. At times I found myself sad, wishing I could save Bonnie from the awful times she endured.
What I Wasn’t Crazy About: After reading this emotional rollercoaster of Bonnie’s life, I wish she would have told us more about how she overcame the obstacles in her life. Bonnie had a lot of struggles in life and to overcome all of that took courage and strength. Bonnie deserves to have the good things in her life acknowledged as well. The ending felt fairly rushed. I have so many more questions leaving me wanting more. Maybe a second book focused on recovery……
Trigger Warnings: Sexual abuse, Death of a parent, Drug use, Alcohol abuse, Eating disorders, Suicidal thoughts/attempts, Homelessness,
Available Now!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you, @katieandbreypa for providing me with a complimentary review copy. In no way has that influenced my voluntary review.
June 9, 2022
✨Book review✨
So Damn Sketchy
By Bonnie Kent
Have you ever felt that a book was written just for you?
That is how “So Damn Sketchy”,
a fictionalized memoir by Bonnie Kent, that follows life through the eyes of a young girl lost, made me feel.
From the dedication written “For the women that get called crazy, bitch, psycho, and slut” to the afterword from the Author, to the thought out cover(which I’m obsessed with)! …..I soaked up every single letter of this book.
Kent’s writing style is audacious, and raw, and there was no holding back, a trait which I commend her for personally, however, there are topics within this book that some may find hard to read, as it navigates areas of coping with death,drug and alcohol use, depression, suicide, eating disorders, homelessness, and sexual abuse.
The people involved in her journey are so well written, you can reach out and touch them. The structure of this story was beautifully built, with the chapters being designated to a certain topic and age in Kent’s life.
This book struck me on a personal chord. I realized that Kent and I had some very similar experiences growing up. I know that for me, the past still haunts me at times. Reading this book reminded me I’m not alone, and that there will be dark times, and we can learn from them. The future is bright.
Every now and then, you’ll find a story that just speaks to your soul. This story was one for me.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ this book gets the Milky Way Galaxy from me 🔭❤️
Thank you so much to @bon.reads.books for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review. And for sharing your story ❤️
Go get this book, it comes out on July 1st!
So Damn Sketchy
By Bonnie Kent
Have you ever felt that a book was written just for you?
That is how “So Damn Sketchy”,
a fictionalized memoir by Bonnie Kent, that follows life through the eyes of a young girl lost, made me feel.
From the dedication written “For the women that get called crazy, bitch, psycho, and slut” to the afterword from the Author, to the thought out cover(which I’m obsessed with)! …..I soaked up every single letter of this book.
Kent’s writing style is audacious, and raw, and there was no holding back, a trait which I commend her for personally, however, there are topics within this book that some may find hard to read, as it navigates areas of coping with death,drug and alcohol use, depression, suicide, eating disorders, homelessness, and sexual abuse.
The people involved in her journey are so well written, you can reach out and touch them. The structure of this story was beautifully built, with the chapters being designated to a certain topic and age in Kent’s life.
This book struck me on a personal chord. I realized that Kent and I had some very similar experiences growing up. I know that for me, the past still haunts me at times. Reading this book reminded me I’m not alone, and that there will be dark times, and we can learn from them. The future is bright.
Every now and then, you’ll find a story that just speaks to your soul. This story was one for me.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ this book gets the Milky Way Galaxy from me 🔭❤️
Thank you so much to @bon.reads.books for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review. And for sharing your story ❤️
Go get this book, it comes out on July 1st!
August 23, 2022
4.5 ⭐️s
Arc Review !
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
*Please check trigger warnings before reading this book as their are quite a few*
A beautifully written memoir that’s raw, real and shows strength.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. It was one of the most real reads I’ve had this year, and I was really impressed with the authors writing style. I found her chapters quick, and sometimes cut off without fully explaining a specific part/time in her life. However I actually applaud this as it worked really well because it didn’t drag things out.
It was really interesting to watch the main character grow . She started as a grief stricken young girl desperate for guidance on how to navigate her life with the loss she experienced. She then grows into a resentful preteen and then a moody, angry, rebellious teenager. As her life continues, so do her struggles.
I appreciate the authors honesty of how she portrayed the feelings during each time period. While as an adult reading I can see the flaws in her logic, I can understand that’s exactly how a young teenager/young adult would be processing their feelings. A 15 year old will not have stable, mature feelings especially when they have a traumatic past.
The ending was abrupt, and didn’t finish with the main character finalizing her happy ending. But since this is a memoir, this is fitting. Life doesn’t get tied up in a pretty little bow.
To the author - thank you for sharing your story. I hope you continue to heal, and would love to hear more of your story should you ever wish to share.
Arc Review !
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
*Please check trigger warnings before reading this book as their are quite a few*
A beautifully written memoir that’s raw, real and shows strength.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. It was one of the most real reads I’ve had this year, and I was really impressed with the authors writing style. I found her chapters quick, and sometimes cut off without fully explaining a specific part/time in her life. However I actually applaud this as it worked really well because it didn’t drag things out.
It was really interesting to watch the main character grow . She started as a grief stricken young girl desperate for guidance on how to navigate her life with the loss she experienced. She then grows into a resentful preteen and then a moody, angry, rebellious teenager. As her life continues, so do her struggles.
I appreciate the authors honesty of how she portrayed the feelings during each time period. While as an adult reading I can see the flaws in her logic, I can understand that’s exactly how a young teenager/young adult would be processing their feelings. A 15 year old will not have stable, mature feelings especially when they have a traumatic past.
The ending was abrupt, and didn’t finish with the main character finalizing her happy ending. But since this is a memoir, this is fitting. Life doesn’t get tied up in a pretty little bow.
To the author - thank you for sharing your story. I hope you continue to heal, and would love to hear more of your story should you ever wish to share.
June 4, 2022
“𝐼 𝑝𝑢𝑠ℎ 𝑝𝑒𝑜𝑝𝑙𝑒 𝑎𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝑡𝑜 𝑠𝑒𝑒 𝑖𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦'𝑙𝑙 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑏𝑎𝑐𝑘...“
This book was not even close to what I expected. I first want to applaud the author for her strength and courage to open up and share her story with us. She is very brave for presenting and exposing her experience to the whole world to acknowledge, judge and learn from.
Bonnie was only 9yo when she lost her father. She feels that part of her is lost with him, and she sets out to find someone or something to fill the aching void. Feeling abandoned, broken and unwanted, Bon starts her rebellious “𝑎𝑐𝑡 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡, 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑘 𝑛𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟“ life at the age of 12/13. She loses herself bit by bit in the world of parties, alcohol, sex and utter oblivion. By the age of 19, things seem to only get worse. Her whole support system is crumbling to the grounds. Family? Gone. Friends? Gone. Job? Gone. Home…? Gone. Finding herself broke, homeless and very lonely, Bonnie sought her final resort in the only thing she promised herself to 𝙉𝙀𝙑𝙀𝙍 approach. Drugs.
This book was a roller-coaster of emotions. I cried, I laughed, I judged, I sympathized and then I understood. The way she narrated and titled the chapters was also very interesting! Each title got me more intrigued to know what happened next. At certain chapters, I panicked. I kept praying for her safety and wanted to know more about her situation in the now present.
Also, Matt, if you ever read this review, thank you! You gave me hope.
Lachlan? 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗔𝗥𝗘 𝗔 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗢. 🫶🏻🙏🏻
𝐴𝑅𝐶 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑣𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑒𝑥𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑛 ℎ𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤.
This book was not even close to what I expected. I first want to applaud the author for her strength and courage to open up and share her story with us. She is very brave for presenting and exposing her experience to the whole world to acknowledge, judge and learn from.
Bonnie was only 9yo when she lost her father. She feels that part of her is lost with him, and she sets out to find someone or something to fill the aching void. Feeling abandoned, broken and unwanted, Bon starts her rebellious “𝑎𝑐𝑡 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡, 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑘 𝑛𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟“ life at the age of 12/13. She loses herself bit by bit in the world of parties, alcohol, sex and utter oblivion. By the age of 19, things seem to only get worse. Her whole support system is crumbling to the grounds. Family? Gone. Friends? Gone. Job? Gone. Home…? Gone. Finding herself broke, homeless and very lonely, Bonnie sought her final resort in the only thing she promised herself to 𝙉𝙀𝙑𝙀𝙍 approach. Drugs.
This book was a roller-coaster of emotions. I cried, I laughed, I judged, I sympathized and then I understood. The way she narrated and titled the chapters was also very interesting! Each title got me more intrigued to know what happened next. At certain chapters, I panicked. I kept praying for her safety and wanted to know more about her situation in the now present.
Also, Matt, if you ever read this review, thank you! You gave me hope.
Lachlan? 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗔𝗥𝗘 𝗔 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗢. 🫶🏻🙏🏻
𝐴𝑅𝐶 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑣𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑒𝑥𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑛 ℎ𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤.
September 5, 2022
Book : So Damn Sketchy
Author : Bonnie Kent
The most beautiful lines I got in the book 👇
“𝐼 𝑝𝑢𝑠ℎ 𝑝𝑒𝑜𝑝𝑙𝑒 𝑎𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝑡𝑜 𝑠𝑒𝑒 𝑖𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦'𝑙𝑙 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑏𝑎𝑐𝑘...“
This story was almost like watching a movie. Every scene was running inside my mind. The author's writing skill was the obvious reason behind this.
While reading certain scenes in the story I actually felt like it was happening in reality ! That is how the book deeply engages the readers. Many more gave a scary experience while reading this book. The author has a good storytelling style. However, it's the ending that was the most terrifying.
Bonnie’s story is raw, honest, touching, and incredibly poignant. When Bonnie’s father passes from cancer when she is nine years old, her long downward spiral begins. Over her teenage years, Bonnie faces struggle after struggle and doesn’t always handle them the way you wish she would. By the time she’s twenty, she’s homeless and suffering from depression and self medicating with drugs, booze, and sex. Fortunately, a chance encounter with someone from her past gives her the opportunity to reverse course and begin life anew.
The people involved in her journey are so well written, you can reach out and touch them. The structure of this story was beautifully built, with the chapters being designated to a certain topic and age in Kent’s life. Have you ever felt that a book was written just for you? - That is how “So Damn Sketchy” !!
What I liked in this story is it’s narration, author has picked up each and every emotion very carefully.
⭐ Rating : 4/5 🌟⭐
⭐ Must Recommended 🌟
Author : Bonnie Kent
The most beautiful lines I got in the book 👇
“𝐼 𝑝𝑢𝑠ℎ 𝑝𝑒𝑜𝑝𝑙𝑒 𝑎𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝑡𝑜 𝑠𝑒𝑒 𝑖𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦'𝑙𝑙 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑏𝑎𝑐𝑘...“
This story was almost like watching a movie. Every scene was running inside my mind. The author's writing skill was the obvious reason behind this.
While reading certain scenes in the story I actually felt like it was happening in reality ! That is how the book deeply engages the readers. Many more gave a scary experience while reading this book. The author has a good storytelling style. However, it's the ending that was the most terrifying.
Bonnie’s story is raw, honest, touching, and incredibly poignant. When Bonnie’s father passes from cancer when she is nine years old, her long downward spiral begins. Over her teenage years, Bonnie faces struggle after struggle and doesn’t always handle them the way you wish she would. By the time she’s twenty, she’s homeless and suffering from depression and self medicating with drugs, booze, and sex. Fortunately, a chance encounter with someone from her past gives her the opportunity to reverse course and begin life anew.
The people involved in her journey are so well written, you can reach out and touch them. The structure of this story was beautifully built, with the chapters being designated to a certain topic and age in Kent’s life. Have you ever felt that a book was written just for you? - That is how “So Damn Sketchy” !!
What I liked in this story is it’s narration, author has picked up each and every emotion very carefully.
⭐ Rating : 4/5 🌟⭐
⭐ Must Recommended 🌟
August 17, 2022
Thank you to #NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Bonnie Kent, you have lived a life I very much so relate with and it was a pleasure to read all about it. as I don’t often feel like a book hits me the way So Damn Sketchy has. This is a memoir-type of book I believe mixed with fiction dealing with a lot of heavy and raw themes. It’s a very emotional book with talks of death, suicide, drug and alcohol use, homelessness, and sex. The book has a great flow and I feel like I was with Bonnie that whole time she was growing up and changing over time. It was powerful and insightful and inspiring.
The ending had me smiling and crying. A reminder that there is always light at the end of the tunnel, darkness before the dawn.
Bonnie is a 9-year-old girl who speaks about the trouble she faces as she grows up, with her dad passing away, her mum growing distant to completely abandoning her. She relies on care and comfort from her big brother Adam and Sean who’s a family friend that has been living with the family for years.
Bonnie Kent’s writing makes you feel like you are in the moment and can physically feel like pain and anxiety that she is dealing with in each situation and life change.
The only downside to So Damn Sketchy is I was left with questions and in need of a sequel!! I have already told friends about this book and that it is a must-read!!
Bonnie Kent, you have lived a life I very much so relate with and it was a pleasure to read all about it. as I don’t often feel like a book hits me the way So Damn Sketchy has. This is a memoir-type of book I believe mixed with fiction dealing with a lot of heavy and raw themes. It’s a very emotional book with talks of death, suicide, drug and alcohol use, homelessness, and sex. The book has a great flow and I feel like I was with Bonnie that whole time she was growing up and changing over time. It was powerful and insightful and inspiring.
The ending had me smiling and crying. A reminder that there is always light at the end of the tunnel, darkness before the dawn.
Bonnie is a 9-year-old girl who speaks about the trouble she faces as she grows up, with her dad passing away, her mum growing distant to completely abandoning her. She relies on care and comfort from her big brother Adam and Sean who’s a family friend that has been living with the family for years.
Bonnie Kent’s writing makes you feel like you are in the moment and can physically feel like pain and anxiety that she is dealing with in each situation and life change.
The only downside to So Damn Sketchy is I was left with questions and in need of a sequel!! I have already told friends about this book and that it is a must-read!!
August 30, 2022
So Damn Sketchy -memoir
The main character Bonnie's father dies when she is 9 years old, Bonnie then feels abandoned by her mother and takes comfort in her brother's friend. Bonnie then goes onto a destructive path to gain attention from both males and her friends to help bury her grief in unhealthy ways. Eventually this leads to her becoming homeless and living in her car.
Bonnie as a character made me feel all types of emotions throughout the story. Sad and sorry for her due to her loss, anger and frustration due to the choices she made , sadness again and then hopeful and proud of her.
Sean as a character made me feel uneasy. Was he comforting her or taking advantage of her vulnerability? A displaced teenager should not be responsible for supporting an entire family. What he did to Bonnie was completely illegal and very wrong but also thought provoking.
I didn't find Lachlan very likable in the beginning, I found him quite young in his maturity. However as the story progressed you realised he was in fact young and still had some life experiences to be lived before committing himself to a long term relationship.
Overall I thought this was a well written and thought provoking novel. Characters were relatable and the situations they found themselves in did seem somewhat realistic and in part nostalgic to my own teen years.
The ending was a big surprise to me and now makes me question will there be a sequel or a follow up?
The main character Bonnie's father dies when she is 9 years old, Bonnie then feels abandoned by her mother and takes comfort in her brother's friend. Bonnie then goes onto a destructive path to gain attention from both males and her friends to help bury her grief in unhealthy ways. Eventually this leads to her becoming homeless and living in her car.
Bonnie as a character made me feel all types of emotions throughout the story. Sad and sorry for her due to her loss, anger and frustration due to the choices she made , sadness again and then hopeful and proud of her.
Sean as a character made me feel uneasy. Was he comforting her or taking advantage of her vulnerability? A displaced teenager should not be responsible for supporting an entire family. What he did to Bonnie was completely illegal and very wrong but also thought provoking.
I didn't find Lachlan very likable in the beginning, I found him quite young in his maturity. However as the story progressed you realised he was in fact young and still had some life experiences to be lived before committing himself to a long term relationship.
Overall I thought this was a well written and thought provoking novel. Characters were relatable and the situations they found themselves in did seem somewhat realistic and in part nostalgic to my own teen years.
The ending was a big surprise to me and now makes me question will there be a sequel or a follow up?
March 6, 2025
Bonnie’s father dies from cancer when she was young, setting her up for a life of sadness, honestly. Her mom leaves with her younger siblings for a short while, leaving her brother and his friend to raise her. Eventually, her brother’s friend, Sean, and her start experimenting sexually, but also relying on each other emotionally. She gets a boyfriend, Lachlan. She loves him but he senses red flags about Sean which causes a lot of conflict. Ultimately, her boyfriend breaks up with her, her mom remarried and her siblings all move away. She’s left with basically nothing after pissing away her inheritance money. She gets on drugs and sleeps around/out of her car until, by happenstance, she meets Lachlan’s brother Matt. Matt suggests she stay with his parents, who get her back on track. She sees Lachlan for the first time in years, who has a serious girlfriend. The girlfriend doesn’t like Bonnie or the fact that she has to stay with them for three weeks. He dumps her and gets back together with Bonnie. The book ends with Bonnie finding out she’s pregnant but waiting to tell Lachlan.
Overall, not a bad book. It was easy to get lost in. I felt emotionally tied to Bonnie while she was younger. The period of time where she just bummed around and partied was monotonous. I hate that she felt like she needed to apologize for Sean for calling him out on his grooming. Not the best book I’ve ever read, but far from the worst.
Overall, not a bad book. It was easy to get lost in. I felt emotionally tied to Bonnie while she was younger. The period of time where she just bummed around and partied was monotonous. I hate that she felt like she needed to apologize for Sean for calling him out on his grooming. Not the best book I’ve ever read, but far from the worst.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2022
Firstly, great appreciation to the author Bonnie Kent for making such a masterpieces.
This is an Australian novel where you will find a life story from the prism of a girl who lost her father at an early age.
The book is full of raw emotions and while reading you will find the difficulties in a life. The downfall and upstream at the same time the reaction as well.
Usually I don't admire the book by it's cover or title but this time I acknowledge that the title is different at the same time suitable because the way she narrated and titled the chapters was also very interesting! Each title got me more intrigued to know what happened next. At certain chapters, panicked. kept praying for the safety of the girl and wanted to know more about her situation in the now present.
However , to more how the girl deal with the situation ? , what did she approached ?With the changing of her age how she behave? And utmost if or how she find solutions of all these , you should have a read this book.
The author's technique of raw, magnetic characters and great plotlines is a gift. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. Definitely an unpredictable story, my favorite kind!
Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review.
Must recommend.
This is an Australian novel where you will find a life story from the prism of a girl who lost her father at an early age.
The book is full of raw emotions and while reading you will find the difficulties in a life. The downfall and upstream at the same time the reaction as well.
Usually I don't admire the book by it's cover or title but this time I acknowledge that the title is different at the same time suitable because the way she narrated and titled the chapters was also very interesting! Each title got me more intrigued to know what happened next. At certain chapters, panicked. kept praying for the safety of the girl and wanted to know more about her situation in the now present.
However , to more how the girl deal with the situation ? , what did she approached ?With the changing of her age how she behave? And utmost if or how she find solutions of all these , you should have a read this book.
The author's technique of raw, magnetic characters and great plotlines is a gift. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. Definitely an unpredictable story, my favorite kind!
Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review.
Must recommend.
June 4, 2022
*** Book Review***
So Damn Sketchy by @bon.reads.books
I don’t normally read autobiographies, but after reading the blurb, I had to read this one.
This is a compelling autobiography of a young woman who hits rock bottom before turning her life around.
Bonnie’s story is raw, honest, touching, and incredibly poignant.
It made me want to reach out and hug her. Cry with her. I want to sit on the floor and tell her my story.
Since her father died when she was 9, Bonnie has never dealt with her grief.
Her mum leaves her four children behind to deal with her own grief and by doing so, Bonnie has abandonment issues.
She meets and falls in love with Lachlan. They’re together for three years and he breaks up with her to move to England to study. That and the fact she cheated on him during schoolies.
In doing so, it triggers Bonnie’s abandonment issues and she starts to rebel. She alienates her entire family and stays in Melbourne when her family moves to Sydney.
Bonnie then spirals out of control. She starts to sleep around, drinks and takes drugs. By this stage she has alienated her friends.
She’s run out of money and loses her apartment. She’s now homeless and living in her car.
She is saved by Lach’s family.
I would recommend this book and give it:
🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
So Damn Sketchy by @bon.reads.books
I don’t normally read autobiographies, but after reading the blurb, I had to read this one.
This is a compelling autobiography of a young woman who hits rock bottom before turning her life around.
Bonnie’s story is raw, honest, touching, and incredibly poignant.
It made me want to reach out and hug her. Cry with her. I want to sit on the floor and tell her my story.
Since her father died when she was 9, Bonnie has never dealt with her grief.
Her mum leaves her four children behind to deal with her own grief and by doing so, Bonnie has abandonment issues.
She meets and falls in love with Lachlan. They’re together for three years and he breaks up with her to move to England to study. That and the fact she cheated on him during schoolies.
In doing so, it triggers Bonnie’s abandonment issues and she starts to rebel. She alienates her entire family and stays in Melbourne when her family moves to Sydney.
Bonnie then spirals out of control. She starts to sleep around, drinks and takes drugs. By this stage she has alienated her friends.
She’s run out of money and loses her apartment. She’s now homeless and living in her car.
She is saved by Lach’s family.
I would recommend this book and give it:
🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
June 24, 2022
4 ⭐️
This was different from the books I’d usually gravitate towards and I wouldn’t often read a semi-biographical book but I really enjoyed this one and it was a fantastic debut novel for Bonnie Kent!
In So Damn Sketchy we follow Bonnie, from age 9 after the death of her father to 21, where she deals with grief, mental health and family troubles and just all the curveballs life throws her way. This book is told entirely from her POV.
This book was heavy, raw and real and it pulled all the emotions out of me. I just kept reading and reading hoping something good will happen for Bonnie because her life was tough and heartbreaking. The author really didn’t skimp when it came to the details and realism of the situation that was happening. It dealt with such heavy subjects that wasn’t glamourised or sugarcoated at all (so definitely check the trigger warning for this book before you pick it up) but I admired Bonnie’s strength, she is a real survivor and I could of kept reading more and more about her life once I got to the end of the book.
I really enjoyed this one and I highly recommend you give this a go if it interests you!
*Thank you to Netgalley & the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
This was different from the books I’d usually gravitate towards and I wouldn’t often read a semi-biographical book but I really enjoyed this one and it was a fantastic debut novel for Bonnie Kent!
In So Damn Sketchy we follow Bonnie, from age 9 after the death of her father to 21, where she deals with grief, mental health and family troubles and just all the curveballs life throws her way. This book is told entirely from her POV.
This book was heavy, raw and real and it pulled all the emotions out of me. I just kept reading and reading hoping something good will happen for Bonnie because her life was tough and heartbreaking. The author really didn’t skimp when it came to the details and realism of the situation that was happening. It dealt with such heavy subjects that wasn’t glamourised or sugarcoated at all (so definitely check the trigger warning for this book before you pick it up) but I admired Bonnie’s strength, she is a real survivor and I could of kept reading more and more about her life once I got to the end of the book.
I really enjoyed this one and I highly recommend you give this a go if it interests you!
*Thank you to Netgalley & the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
June 28, 2022
“I needed someone to want me bad enough that they’d risk losing everything, just like I have.”
When she is just 9 years old, Bonnie Kent’s father passes away. What follows is a chain of events that sets her life onto a rough track. Eventually, she finds herself broke, single, and living in her car. And just when it seems like the whole world is out to get her, she is forced to navigate through her grief and take ownership of her actions.
In this fictionalised memoir Bonnie Kent relives all the little moments that led her to her lowest point, and the ones that helped her back up. It’s an eye opening read highlighting just how bad things can get when it feels the world has turned against you.
Kent’s writing reads like journal entries, making for a fast and easy read, but it would have been nice to spend more time with some of the minor characters to really get an understanding of who they all were and what they meant to Bonnie. The story focuses more on the years before Bonnie’s “rock bottom”, and less on the metaphorical “climbing out”, with the ending feeling rushed in the last few chapters.
Regardless, to write about one’s life is no easy feat, and Kent has done an incredible job getting her story on to paper.
When she is just 9 years old, Bonnie Kent’s father passes away. What follows is a chain of events that sets her life onto a rough track. Eventually, she finds herself broke, single, and living in her car. And just when it seems like the whole world is out to get her, she is forced to navigate through her grief and take ownership of her actions.
In this fictionalised memoir Bonnie Kent relives all the little moments that led her to her lowest point, and the ones that helped her back up. It’s an eye opening read highlighting just how bad things can get when it feels the world has turned against you.
Kent’s writing reads like journal entries, making for a fast and easy read, but it would have been nice to spend more time with some of the minor characters to really get an understanding of who they all were and what they meant to Bonnie. The story focuses more on the years before Bonnie’s “rock bottom”, and less on the metaphorical “climbing out”, with the ending feeling rushed in the last few chapters.
Regardless, to write about one’s life is no easy feat, and Kent has done an incredible job getting her story on to paper.
July 4, 2022
The main character Bonnie is strong-willed, sassy and very, very sad. She doesn't wallow in self pity though (thank god) and throughout the book we view the world through her eyes from 9 - 21 years of age. Despite the slow motion trainwreck that is the main character, I still found her relatable and was rooting for her.
The book has all the things you'd expect from a coming of age story. First period, first boyfriend, pushing the boundaries etc. It then moves to something beyond that.
The book does jump in time a lot and occasionally you're left scratching your head and feeling like you missed something that the characters all just seem to know.
In saying that, the story itself was compelling and the characters felt very real. I constantly found myself wanting to know what was coming next, and for Bonnie to have more and simply be more.
Speaking of wanting more, the ending was a little rushed and I wanted more.
Lastly I feel weird saying that I was 'Team Sean' the entire time. Even when I didn't want to be. When it came to Sean, I feel like the author successfully managed to transfer the main character's confused emotions onto the reader. I found this frustrating but cleverly done.
The book has all the things you'd expect from a coming of age story. First period, first boyfriend, pushing the boundaries etc. It then moves to something beyond that.
The book does jump in time a lot and occasionally you're left scratching your head and feeling like you missed something that the characters all just seem to know.
In saying that, the story itself was compelling and the characters felt very real. I constantly found myself wanting to know what was coming next, and for Bonnie to have more and simply be more.
Speaking of wanting more, the ending was a little rushed and I wanted more.
Lastly I feel weird saying that I was 'Team Sean' the entire time. Even when I didn't want to be. When it came to Sean, I feel like the author successfully managed to transfer the main character's confused emotions onto the reader. I found this frustrating but cleverly done.
July 30, 2022
I finished this in just a few days. This story tells of about a decade of Bonnie Kent's life starting at age nine and following her father's death. Sooo much happens, a lot of it at an early age. The way the book is laid out, it was much like reading journal entries, each chapter highlighting specific happenings in Bonnie's life. Everything was so raw and I couldn't believe all this was happening to one person. With every new chapter, you can't help but to feel for her.
Bonnie's journey over the years was a long one, full of feelings of grief and loneliness, self-discovery and learning things the hard way while trying to fill the void left in her heart. Things get very rough and she does what she feels she needs to in order to survive. My heart ached reading many of her recollections, and I wondered if she'd ever get to live the life she once pictured.
I was glad to see that in the end, she gained a much needed support system, and was able to turn her life around and get the happiness and love she was always looking for.
The story was very real and raw, and took me on a rollercoaster of emotions; it definitely left a mark on me.
Bonnie's journey over the years was a long one, full of feelings of grief and loneliness, self-discovery and learning things the hard way while trying to fill the void left in her heart. Things get very rough and she does what she feels she needs to in order to survive. My heart ached reading many of her recollections, and I wondered if she'd ever get to live the life she once pictured.
I was glad to see that in the end, she gained a much needed support system, and was able to turn her life around and get the happiness and love she was always looking for.
The story was very real and raw, and took me on a rollercoaster of emotions; it definitely left a mark on me.
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