62 pages • 2 hours read
Heavy
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Book Brief
257
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Jackson, Mississippi • 1980s-2000s
2018
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Heavy is Kiese Laymon's 2018 memoir addressing his complex relationship with his mother, his experiences of racism, and his struggles with body image and addiction while growing up in Jackson, Mississippi, and later as a successful academic. Sensitive topics include physical and sexual violence, eating disorders, and gambling addiction.
Emotional
Challenging
Contemplative
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
45,060 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kiese Laymon's Heavy is praised for its raw, candid portrayal of race, weight, and family, delivering a powerful narrative that's both personal and universal. Some reviewers note its challenging and intense subject matter. While Laymon's prose is lauded for its strength and beauty, others find the emotional heaviness overwhelming. Overall, Heavy is recognized as a significant and impactful memoir.
Who Should Read Heavy?
Readers who appreciate powerful memoirs tackling personal and societal issues would enjoy Heavy by Kiese Laymon. Fans of Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates and Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson will resonate with Laymon's exploration of race, weight, and family dynamics. This book appeals to those interested in authentic, introspective narratives.
45,060 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Laymon’s Mother
Laymon’s Mother
A successful academic who, despite her professional achievements, navigates turbulent personal relationships and engages in a complicated dynamic with her son.
Grandmama
Grandmama
A tenacious and loving presence in Laymon's life, who remains rooted in Mississippi despite facing numerous challenges, providing support and a love for language.
257
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Jackson, Mississippi • 1980s-2000s
2018
Adult
18+ years
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