Plot Summary

Boy Erased

Garrard Conley
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Boy Erased

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2016

Book Brief

Garrard Conley

Boy Erased

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

349

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Arkansas • 2000s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Boy Erased by Garrard Conley is a memoir chronicling Conley's struggle with his sexuality and the pressure from his religious parents to undergo conversion therapy. As he navigates the challenges of growing up in a strict Christian household in Arkansas, Conley describes his experiences in a program aimed at "curing" homosexuality and his ultimate journey towards self-acceptance. The book addresses themes of religion, self-discovery, and the damaging effects of conversion therapy. The narrative includes references to suicidal ideation.

Emotional

Challenging

Melancholic

Inspirational

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

3.9

23,503 ratings

58%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Boy Erased by Garrard Conley is a poignant memoir that delves into his experiences with conversion therapy, highlighting the emotional trauma and resilience involved. Critics praise its raw honesty and powerful storytelling, though some find the narrative occasionally meandering. Overall, it is an insightful, moving work that challenges societal norms and evokes strong empathy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Boy Erased?

Readers who appreciate memoirs about personal identity and overcoming adversity will find Boy Erased compelling. Fans of Educated by Tara Westover or Becoming by Michelle Obama, with their introspective narratives and themes of self-discovery, will be similarly engaged. This book deeply resonates with those exploring LGBTQ+ experiences and family dynamics.

3.9

23,503 ratings

58%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Boy Erased: A Memoir by Garrard Conley was adapted into a 2018 film directed by Joel Edgerton, who also co-stars alongside Lucas Hedges and Nicole Kidman.

Garrard Conley's memoir was inspired by his personal experiences with conversion therapy, which he describes in detail, bringing awareness to the controversial practices employed in such programs.

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The memoir has been praised for its candid and emotional portrayal of Conley's journey, earning it critical acclaim and contributing to broader discussions about LGBTQ+ rights and conversion therapy.

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Book Details
Pages

349

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

Arkansas • 2000s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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