Rita Will

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When Rita Mae Brown writes, laughter often follows. In her memoir, she shares her life as the first openly lesbian writer to break into the mainstream, offering a hilarious and candid account of her journey. Born as the illegitimate daughter of a flighty blue blood and left in an orphanage, she was quickly adopted by relatives who feared for her survival. Her determination to live became a metaphor for her life. Raised by loving adoptive parents and a quirky extended family, she learned to be tough and outspoken, often facing challenges due to her authenticity. Brown recounts her tumultuous relationship with her adoptive mother, who humorously referred to her as "the ill" whenever she misbehaved. She also discusses her passionate advocacy for social causes, which nearly jeopardized her education, and her outspoken role in the early women's movement that led to her expulsion from NOW. The release of her groundbreaking novel catapulted her into fame, making her a prominent figure in America. Throughout her life, Brown has found strength in her bond with animals, her love for the South, and her romantic relationships, including a notable one with Martina Navratilova. With her signature humor and honesty, she reveals her flaws and the wisdom gained from her experiences, making this memoir feel like a warm visit with an old friend.