Welcome to Litsy!

Fun to read something from my hometown. #petsoflitsy #gingerpets

I was pleasantly surprised by this one. It's a book club pick that I wasn't looking forward to. But Hartzler has an engaging voice, and I appreciated how he reflected on his upbringing with understanding and respect as well as obvious critique. I grew up in a Baptist home, and related to a lot of the quirks of Christian subculture he describes. But fortunately I grew up in a family that valued individual thinking instead of spiritual manipulation!

I could really identify with Aaron's life since I, too, was raised in an Independent Fundamental Baptist family. If you had a more "normal" childhood I still think you will find Aaron's story morbidly fascinating. #readjanuary #autobiography

There was a lot I could relate to in this book...Even though my family growing up wasn't nearly as religious, I felt a lot of the same sense of obedience, powerlessness, guilt, anger, confusion, and love for my parents that Aaron did. This book left me thinking. I really enjoyed reading his story!

Oh, this kid's story! 💔😢 I'm still in the beginning, but, man, his parents make me so 😡.

Heart wrenching for those who know Hartlzer's story because it echoes so many of those who were brought up in an oppressed home full of religious rules and cult-like doctrine. A well-written memoir with a heart-felt voice. Perfect for YA and adults.

Finished this memoir in less than 24 hours. It tells the story of a gay kid growing up in an evangelical family and how he struggled to balance his love for his family with his identity and beliefs. It's humorous, heartfelt, and full of compassion.

A very honest portrayal of what it is like growing up in an evangelical Christian family.