Little Hope Notes

Summer is the perfect time to slow down, soak in some sun, and dive into a good book — especially one that makes you feel seen, understood, and uplifted. If you’re in the mood for stories that blend humor, healing, resilience, and a whole lot of heart, these five memoirs are for you.

Each of these books tackles mental health in deeply personal ways. Yes, some moments are heavy — but the overarching message is one of hope, healing, and the power of owning your story. Before diving in, be sure to check trigger warnings for each title. Your mental and emotional well-being matters most.

Here are five must-reads to add to your summer list:

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase through my links. Think of it as a tiny high-five for sharing things I genuinely love! 💛

Sure, I’ll Join Your Cult: A Memoir of Mental Illness and the Quest to Belong Anywhere by Maria Bamford

Stand-up comic Maria Bamford delivers an unforgettable, raw, and hilarious memoir about her lifelong journey with OCD, bipolar disorder, and the never-ending quest to fit in. It’s a deeply honest look at mental illness, self-acceptance, and creativity — told with Maria’s signature quirky humor and courage.

I highly recommend the audiobook version!

Finding Me by Viola Davis

This powerful memoir from award-winning actress Viola Davis chronicles her journey from poverty to the pinnacle of Hollywood — with grit, grace, and truth at every step. Viola’s reflections on trauma, healing, and reclaiming her voice will stick with you long after you finish the final page.

Will by Will Smith

More than just a Hollywood tell-all, Will is a reflective and vulnerable exploration of fame, family, and personal evolution. With honesty and insight, Will Smith shares how his desire to succeed was rooted in fear — and how learning to let go changed everything.

Friends, Lovers, and The Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry

In this raw, witty, and surprisingly tender memoir, the late Matthew Perry opens up about addiction, recovery, and what it really meant to be “Chandler” during his darkest times. It’s a sobering yet hopeful read — a reminder that healing is possible, even when it feels out of reach.

I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

Darkly funny and brutally honest, Jennette McCurdy’s memoir shines a light on the darker side of child stardom and the complexities of family trauma. Through her story, she reclaims her power — and invites others to do the same.

These books aren’t afraid to go deep — but they all carry a message of resilience and renewal. They’ll make you laugh, cry, reflect, and maybe even see your own journey a little more clearly.

So grab a beach blanket, your favorite cocktail or mocktail, and let these books remind you that
you are not alone. Healing is messy. And hope is always worth holding onto.

P.S. Be gentle with yourself while reading. Bookmark the hard pages. Take breaks when you need to. And always, always put your well-being first. 💛