Read with MLC: By or About Someone You Admire

Welcome to February and the second month of the 2025 Read with MLC Reading Challenge! This month's goal is to read a book by or about someone you admire. The book industry produces an astounding number of biographies and memoirs each year. According to the Library and Book Trade Almanac, there were 4,887 biographies published in the first year of this millennium. Just over 20 years later, in 2022, that number remained just as high, at 4,949. Why do we enjoy reading about other people so much? A quote often misattributed to C.S.Lewis says that "we read to know we are not alone". Even though the quote comes from screenwriter William Nicholson instead of Lewis, it still rings true. Biographies and memoirs humanize the people we admire, showing us their foibles and faults as well as their heady accomplishments. They show that we are all out here in the world, living our lives and doing our best. Which biographies and memoirs have staff members of the Mississippi Library Commission enjoyed? Scroll down to find out!

Brother to a Dragonfly
Will D. Campbell
MLC
BARD
I've admired Will D. Campbell since I read about him in places like the Mississippi Encyclopedia. I'm looking forward to learning more about him and his ideas about Christian love and grace.
-Elisabeth Scott, Reference Librarian

My Own Two Feet
Beverly Cleary
hoopla at MLC
BARD
As always, this book by Beverly Cleary remains one of my favorite memoirs. Ramona Quimby is one of the characters that looms large in my childhood, and I still reread Cleary’s books when I need something cozy and familiar. Her memoir shines a light on the inspiration for many of her stories and the tales of her time as a librarian are a good reminder to all of us in the profession what profound good we can do. 
-Alex Brower, Information Services Director

I’m Glad My Mom Died
Jennette McCurdy
MLC
BARD
I thoroughly enjoyed this autobiography by Jennette McCurdy. I used to love iCarly and I remember watching Jennette on TV, so this was a really intriguing look into the behind-the-scenes shenanigans from the era of television that I remember best.
-Alex Brower, Information Services Director

I’m Glad My Mom Died
Jennette McCurdy
MLC
BARD
I just finished I’m Glad My Mom Died and I think the publisher's summary is accurate: "A heartbreaking and hilarious memoir by iCarly and Sam & Cat star Jennette McCurdy about her struggles as a former child actor - including eating disorders, addiction, and a complicated relationship with her overbearing mother - and how she retook control of her life."
-Betty Moore, Technical Services Librarian

The Virtue of Selfishness
Ayn Rand and Nathaniel Branden
BARD
This book encourages us to think about the value of taking care of ourselves. While some people might not agree with her views, her message is that we need to focus on our own well-being first. When we take care of our mental, spiritual, and physical health, we can better support those around us. It is not about ignoring others or hurting others; it's about caring for ourselves so we can be more present in our relationships. When we share our self-care journey with our partners, it can lead to stronger connections. Being open about our needs helps create a supportive space where everyone can thrive.
-Kristina Kelly, Public Relations Coordinator

Ageless
Suzanne Somers
Suzanne Somers' quest to improve her physical and mental health during menopause is both interesting and encouraging. Her determination and exploration of alternative medicine have inspired many people. Even though she faced criticism for her unique ideas and work with alternative medicine, recent research on menopause treatments now backs many of her views. New research from doctors like Mary Claire Haver and Stacy Sims have also added support to Somers' approach.
-Kristina Kelly, Public Relations Coordinator

The Woman in Me
Britney Spears
MLC
BARD
This was an excellent and compelling read. I loved Britney Spears, but I was too young during the height of the controversy that surrounded her to really understand what was going on and why. It was an eye-opening look into her life and the obstacles that she had to overcome.
-Alex Brower, Information Services Director

Still not sure what to read? Check out MLC's BookMatch service! Fill out our short form telling us about your reading likes and dislikes; we'll send you a list of recommended reads tailored to your tastes. Until next time, happy reading! 

Elisabeth Scott
Reference Librarian