Okay, so I just finished Mary Karr's memoir and WOW. This isn't your typical childhood story - it's like if Texas oil country dysfunction had a lovechild with poetic brilliance.

The way she describes her alcoholic parents should be depressing, but somehow she makes you laugh through the chaos? Like when her drunk dad "lurches around like a train conductor" - who thinks of that?!

Pro tip: Don't read this if you want something light. There's abuse, mental illness, and WILD family secrets (that last chapter reveal?? Mind blown). But Karr's voice is so sharp and darkly funny that you can't look away.

Favorite part: When little Mary shoots a neighbor kid with a BB gun and delivers a comeback so legendary the town moms are still clutching their pearls decades later. Iconic.

400/10 would recommend to anyone who likes memoirs that punch you in the gut while making you snort-laugh. Already ordered her next book!