Commute: An Illustrated Memoir of Shame

(Paperback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

In Commute, we follow author and illustrator Erin Williams on her daily commute to and from work, punctuated by recollections of sexual encounters as well as memories of her battle with alcoholism, addiction, and recovery. As she moves through the world navigating banal, familiar, and sometimes uncomfortable interactions with the familiar-faced strangers she sees daily, Williams weaves together a riveting collection of flashbacks.

Reviews

Williams does not shy away from her shame. She is also angry, and she knows she is not alone, and that brilliant anger is where the book becomes truly great. Her confidenceand literal straight gaze at the reader, full of vulnerability and challengemakes this volume a critique, a lament, and a sigh. As Williams elegantly argues, many women need all three. This sharp and splendidly drawn memoir will strike a strong chord in the current moment. * Publishers Weekly, Starred Review *
One days commute offers time for the author to reflect on sexual predators, alcoholism, and the experiences she understands better now than she did at the timeA catharsis for the author that fits perfectly within a pivotal period for society and culture at large. * Kirkus Reviews *
...[Williams] adds an eloquent voice to the chorus of stories testifying to the daily experiences of women under patriarchy. Commute is a book that really should be read by everyone. * BookPage, Starred Review *
Williams is as unapologetic in this book as she is vulnerable, which makes for a unique, timely, and powerful read. * The Beat *
This is welcoming, soul-baring, stunningly interconnected, and very discussable. * Booklist *

Author Bio

ERIN WILLIAMS is the author and illustrator of What's Wrong Personal Histories of Chronic Pain and Bad Medicine and the coauthor and illustrator of How to Take Care and the Big Activity Book series. She teaches art and writing in New York.