Gather Me: A Memoir in Praise of the Books That Saved Me

Edim, founder of the Well-Read Black Girl book club, debuts with an exploration of the books, authors, and literary places that shaped her life, from childhood to adulthood. Each chapter opens with a list of authors, from Nikki Giovanni and Maya Angelou to Toni Morrison and Audre Lorde. Edim then pays homage to each of those authors, describing how their books spoke to her at particular points in her life and how they helped form her identity. Narrating the audiobook, Edim reflects on how books guided her through the breakup of her parents’ marriage, her role in caring for her younger brother, her studies at Howard University, and her mother’s depression. Edim’s narration is strong and vibrant, inviting listeners in with engaging pacing and warmth. The passion behind her writing is evident in her delivery.