So Much I Want to Tell You

Introduction

Anna Akana’s book “So Much I Want to Tell You” is a candid memoir about her life and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Akana is a successful YouTuber, actress, and comedian, and in this book, she shares her experiences with depression, grief, and self-discovery.

Below are some of the key takeaways from the book, along with my thoughts and reflections.

One of the main themes of the book is mental health and self-care. Akana talks openly about her struggles with depression and anxiety, and how she’s learned to take care of herself over the years. She emphasizes the importance of therapy, medication, and self-care practices like exercise and mindfulness.

Mental Health and Self-Care

As someone who has also struggled with mental health issues, I found this section of the book particularly relatable and inspiring. Akana’s honesty and vulnerability in sharing her experiences are a testament to the power of speaking openly about mental health.

Grief and Loss

Another major theme of the book is grief and loss. Akana’s sister committed suicide when Akana was a teenager, and she discusses how this event has shaped her life and her perspective on death. She also talks about losing her grandfather and how she’s coped with that loss.

Akana’s reflections on grief and loss are poignant and heartfelt. She speaks candidly about the challenges of navigating grief and how it’s a process that’s different for everyone.

Pursuing Your Passions

Akana is a successful YouTuber and comedian, and she talks about her journey to pursuing her passions and building a career in the entertainment industry. She discusses the challenges of being a woman of color in a predominantly white industry. As well as the importance of persistence and hard work.

As someone who’s also pursuing a creative career. I found Akana’s insights on this topic to be both motivating and realistic. She doesn’t sugarcoat the difficulties of the industry but also emphasizes the rewards of pursuing your passions.

Relationships and Boundaries

In the book, Akana also talks about her experiences with relationships, both romantic and platonic. She discusses the importance of setting boundaries. And learning to communicate effectively, as well as the challenges of navigating toxic relationships.

Akana’s reflections on relationships and boundaries are thoughtful and insightful. She emphasizes the importance of self-respect and being true to yourself in any relationship.

Finding Your Voice

Lastly, Akana talks about the importance of finding your voice and being true to yourself. She discusses how she’s navigated being a public figure while also staying true to her values and beliefs. She also talks about the importance of speaking up and using your platform for good.

As someone who’s also trying to find my voice as a writer. I found Akana’s insights on this topic to be both inspiring and helpful. She emphasizes the importance of being authentic and not compromising your values for the sake of pleasing others.

Overall, “So Much I Want to Tell You” is a candid and heartfelt memoir that covers a wide range of topics. Akana’s insights on mental health, grief, pursuing your passions, relationships, and finding your voice are all valuable and relatable. Her writing style is engaging and easy to read, making this book a page-turner from start to finish.

Conclusion

I would highly recommend “So Much I Want to Tell You” to anyone who’s interested in memoirs or looking for insights on mental health, self-care, and personal growth. Akana’s honesty and vulnerability in sharing her experiences are a testament to the power of storytelling. The importance of speaking openly about mental health and personal struggles.