'Strangeland' by Tracey Emin | Gracie Reads

Hey guys,
Firstly I just want to give some context on this collection biography as I read it on holiday. So, this means I have no pictures of the book- sorry! It also meant that I normally wouldn't read such a book as this, but limited books at the villa meant I had to find something to read. What followed next made me pleasantly surprised, because I loved this book. It was such a fascinating insight into her life. She is honestly remarkable, and I never thought I say that!
This book is split into three sections which detail the progress of Emin's life. The book reflects her trades growing up, but rather than lingering on these sad moments Emin challenges them. It honestly reflects her resilience, her grit and determination to be something. If anyone thinks of themselves as an underdog, Emin's biography shows that you can rise up from that.  I found myself wanting to cry at some points, there's moments of shock, of pain that are hard to ignore.
So you might be asking yourself, why did I like this book so much? I think it was for all my perception of Emin, these were broken when reading this book. I read it in one day because I found myself so intrigued. Yet, the enigma that is Tracey Emin still remains. This book offers a  certain lack of intimacy between reader and author, the events that are reflected are almost seen from an outsider. Emin's feelings are blunt, sharp and lack any personal reflections. She does break the fourth wall sometimes, which pulls you back. I still don't feel like I know her any more though, a handful of her past is not enough to know about her now.
Even in parts where she talked about the origin of her work 'My Bed' there is nothing to suggest how her success was brought around. How I wish there was! I would have loved to have known how she succeed within the book, rather than having to do external research. It would have perhaps also been nice to have incorporated some interviews or personal talks with friends. I wanted to know how her friends, family and others stood on these events. I know that this was her book, her autobiography but I just wish there was more personal touches.
Overall I really liked this book, I would give it a 7/10 because it was so gripping.
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Love,
TSITR x