Know My Name by Chanel Miller is a powerful, heartbreaking, and ultimately inspiring memoir. The author’s story of courage and resilience captivated readers around the world and earned her the 2019 National Book Critics Award.
This is a remarkable account of Miller’s journey through a traumatic experience and her ongoing fight for justice and self-discovery.
Plot Summary
Know My Name follows the story of Chanel Miller, who was previously known as Emily Doe in a high profile case in which she was sexually assaulted on the Stanford University campus in 2015. Her assailant Brock Turner was sentenced to six months in jail only to serve three for his crime.
At the center of this book is Chanel’s personal account of her ordeal and how she overcame shame and fear to become an advocate for survivors of sexual assault everywhere. She recounts her journey from victim to survivor as she shares her emotions and experiences throughout this heartbreaking ordeal.
Writing Style
Miller’s writing style is both eloquent and honest, which makes for an engaging read that readers can easily connect with. She does not shy away from difficult topics such as depression, guilt, shame, loneliness, fear, or anger but rather confronts them with strength and grace.
The raw emotion that shines through in Miller’s writing makes this book an emotional rollercoaster ride that cannot be overlooked.
Themes
One of the main themes of Know My Name is resilience: resilience in the face of adversity, against victim-blaming, against gender roles placed upon us by society, etc.
It also highlights themes such as justice reform/courtroom proceedings (especially when it comes to rape cases) and self-discovery/self-empowerment – that is finding strength within oneself after being subjected to trauma or abuse.
Ultimately Know My Name serves as proof that even out of tragedy comes hope; hope that we can be heard and our stories can bring about real change in our society.
Conclusion
Know My Name is an important read for anyone looking to gain insight into the reality behind sexual assault cases today or simply looking for inspiration when faced with adversity.
This book gives voice to those who have been silenced or feel unheard; it’s a powerful reminder that no matter how dark things may seem there is always light at the end of the tunnel if we have courage within ourselves to keep going forward no matter what life throws at us.
