Raising Our Hands by Jenna Arnold
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Raising Our Hands in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
Raising Our Hands by Jenna Arnold presents itself as a call to action, blending memoir and activism, but falls short of delivering a truly impactful narrative. While the author’s intentions are clear and commendable, the execution of the book leaves much to be desired.
The Details
One of the major drawbacks is the uneven balance between personal anecdotes and the broader discussion of social issues. Arnold’s memoir often overshadows the promised manifesto for activism, leaving readers wanting more substance and depth in terms of concrete strategies for social change.
The nonlinear structure of the narrative, while attempting to be innovative, ends up feeling disjointed and confusing. The constant shift between the author’s personal experiences and broader sociopolitical analyses may alienate readers seeking a more cohesive and focused exploration of the book’s themes.
Moreover, Arnold’s writing style, while accessible, occasionally lacks the nuance required for the complex issues she addresses. The narrative tends to oversimplify intricate social problems, potentially doing a disservice to the depth and gravity of these issues.
While the book’s intent is to inspire action, it may leave some readers feeling more overwhelmed than empowered. The lack of a clear roadmap for tangible change, combined with the book’s structural and stylistic issues, detracts from its potential impact as an activist manifesto.
The Verdict
Overall, Raising Our Hands falls short of its ambitious goals. Jenna Arnold’s memoir, while heartfelt, lacks the depth and coherence necessary to effectively inspire and guide readers toward meaningful social activism.
