“Why can’t I manage to follow basic social rules of behavior? Why do institutions piss me off so much? Why does male authority make me want to throw up or fight to the death? Why do I make a mess exactly when things are finally looking ordered?”

I loved this little book so, so much. It was relatable and made me think a lot about the many ways I've felt I've never quite "fit in" over my life. I don't follow the "normal script" of how most women's lives go and I'm (mostly) ok with that. I enjoyed the stories by fellow misfits and the recurrent theme that we all matter, we all have stories and voices and something to contribute. A must-read for anyone who feels on the edges/follows their own scripts/identifies as "other" or "misfit".

Like an expanded version of her TED talk, the Beauty of Being a Misfit, and a summary introduction to much of her other writing and life stories. I appreciate that she approached it with honesty and openness, warts and all, and shared the stage with other misfits to broaden the definition and perspectives.

I really enjoyed this exploration of the gifts of being a "misfit" in the world, particularly her critic of the infamous "The Hero's Journey" monomyth, and how Misfits may have another path through the world. This book also includes essays from others (the majority of whom were former students of hers) and those are a bit more hit or miss, but still a great way to include a variety of experiences and stories around what it means to "be a misfit."

A lot heavier than I was anticipating - but I am very glad I read it. I know misfits and recognise my cajoling in encouraging them to conform. This book has brought this to my attention now. What is the price we pay for conforming? Strength and creativity through adversity, what would our world be without them?

I don’t get comedians, but i understand why others do. They love that moment when a humorous observation makes them say “I have felt that way!” For me, that is what writers do. The way they structure a sentence around a painful or private moment that feels so personal. Lidia Yuknavitch does this time and time again in this little essay. Truly beautiful and difficult from start to finish.

After reading this gift of a book, I feel a bit better about my place in the world. Still on the periphery, but maybe a sliver less disconnected.

Great book. Very raw and real. I felt I was reading my life. I loved the viewpoints of others interwoven with hers. Going on my gifting list for several of those I love.

The essay by Zach Ellis in this book was the best part. It was all beautiful, but everyone should read that essay.