Semi-Well-Adjusted Despite Literally Everything by Alyson StonerMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
A fascinating exposé on the dark side of Hollywood for child actors, with the gentle inspiration to not let your past define you. Highly recommend.
This was really well written, giving a clear progression with important information along the way.
We begin with Alyson's childhood, trying to make it in Hollywood, and the demands that put on not just them as a child but their family, too. The strain between the family members while Alyson's mother went above and beyond to get Alyson in front of the right people.
This really hammers home the reality for child actors, and how little the industry works to protect them. It's very clear that there was never a time for Alyson to just embrace childhood and the silliness that comes with that, and it really makes you feel for them and others that went through a similar youth.
That said, this isn't a 'poor me' story. It's a realistic look behind the scenes where things need to be exposed.
From childhood, we grow with Alyson as they learn to navigate things and find out who they are beyond what they're told to be, and it's quite an emotional journey. There are some necessary trigger warnings that may mean this isn't for everyone, but I really enjoyed seeing the growth from the pain. Alyson is clearly a strong person who somehow beat the odds to find their own strength, resilience and, through that, their own unique voice.
I really enjoyed reading this story, and I think there's a lot here to motivate and uplift, while at the same time exposing a darker side of Hollywood that really needs a light shined on it.
A well-written biography that highlights fighting the odds to find your own voice, and be who you truly want to be. Highly recommend.
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