She Got Up Off the Couch: And Other Heroic Acts from Mooreland, Indiana : Book Review

"She Got Up Off the Couch" is an engaging and heartfelt memoir by American author Haven Kimmel. It serves as a sequel to her previous memoir, "A Girl Named Zippy," and continues to chronicle Kimmel's childhood in Mooreland, Indiana. In this book, Kimmel shines a spotlight on her mother, Delonda, and her transformation from a woman who spent her days on the couch to someone who took control of her life.

At the start of the memoir, Delonda is depicted as a woman trapped in her own home, rarely venturing out. However, a chance encounter with an inspiring speech by Fannie Flagg ignites a spark within Delonda. This pivotal moment changes her perspective and gives her the determination to seize control and make positive changes in her life.

Throughout the pages of the book, Kimmel portrays her mother's journey with great intimacy and vulnerability. She shares the challenges and obstacles Delonda faces, as well as the strength and bravery she exhibits in overcoming them. Kimmel's writing style is both witty and heartfelt, capturing the unique nuances of their relationship.

Beyond Delonda's personal growth, the memoir delves into larger themes of women's empowerment, family dynamics, and the importance of self-discovery. Kimmel's storytelling is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for change, even in unexpected circumstances.

Overall, "She Got Up Off the Couch" is an inspiring and uplifting memoir that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories of personal transformation and resilience. Kimmel's honest and insightful writing paints a vivid picture of a woman's journey toward self-empowerment. This book is a must-read for fans of memoirs and anyone seeking a tale of hope and triumph.

What are readers saying?

Reviews for Haven Kimmel's memoir "She Got Up Off the Couch" present a mixed picture. Some readers praised the book, finding it inspirational and entertaining. They appreciated Kimmel's witty, humorous, and engaging writing style, and resonated with her personal journey of self-discovery and growth. These readers found the book to be a source of motivation and encouragement.

However, other reviewers felt that the memoir lacked depth and substantial insight. They found the storytelling to be superficial, wishing for a more profound exploration of Kimmel's experiences and emotions. Some also commented on the lack of a cohesive narrative structure, with certain sections feeling disconnected from the overall story.

Despite this criticism, many readers admired the author's candidness and relatability. They found Kimmel's portrayal of her family and their struggles to be authentic and genuine. Her ability to write with honesty and vulnerability was seen as a noteworthy strength of the book.

One aspect of contention among reviewers was the balance between humor and serious subjects. While some found this combination refreshing and well-executed, others believed it detracted from the impact of the more profound moments in the story.

In summary, the reviews for "She Got Up Off the Couch" display a range of opinions. While some readers found it to be a highly engaging and empowering memoir, others felt it lacked depth and a cohesive narrative structure. Nonetheless, many appreciated Kimmel's candid voice, finding her portrayal of her family and personal journey to be relatable and authentic.

MotivationMonday InspirationalReads FitnessJourney