Why Be Happy?

Why not? I hesitated to read this book. What could I learn from reading this memoir? I've read Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit, Written On the Body and Sexing the Cherry. She lost me after that. It got weird for me. I wasn't quite getting her. Was she arrogant? Was I being a book snob?
When I had the opportunity to download this galley I decided to give it a try. I understand Jeanette better now. Her struggle, somewhat like her writing in her novel Oranges, was a wild ride. We would hope that someone who adopts a child would be the best parent they could be. Wrong. Her young life was full of abuse and neglect. Our childhood is a huge part of what makes us tick. Jeanette's clock got smashed. Adopted as a baby and raised by a mother who was clearly mentally unstable, a religious fanatic and wouldn't allow any book in the house other than the bible. Her father was mentally absent and avoided conflict. She has spent the rest of her life trying to pick up the pieces. I can't imagine coming out under her difficult circumstances and she doesn't get smarmy about it. She does explain why being loving is difficult. I had some trouble with the first few chapters but once self-reflection kicked in I decided to keep going. If she can be bold enough to bare her soul, I can be respectful and read her personal story.
I get her confident manner and why it's hard to face criticism when that's all she had growing up. I got a glimpse inside her head and have a greater appreciation for her body of work. If you enjoy Ms. Winterson's books read this memoir and a little "click" will go off in your head.