Running with Scissors is a memoir by Augusten Burroughs that tells the story of his life, from being raised in a dysfunctional family to becoming an adult. Throughout the book, Burroughs touches on themes of sexuality and self-identity as he explores his own complex relationships with those around him. Running with Scissors is considered a seminal work within LGBTQ+ literature and remains one of the most popular autobiographies ever written.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for anyone who wants to read a fascinating and brutally honest autobiography. It’s especially relevant for readers with an interest in LGBTQ+ history and culture, as Burroughs’ experiences reflect many of the struggles and triumphs that have been experienced by queer people throughout time.
Pros :
- Burroughs is a masterful storyteller, and his prose is both lyrical and engaging.
- The book provides a unique perspective on the LGBTQ+ experience.
- It is an immensely readable autobiography that will appeal to a wide audience.
Cons :
- It can be triggering for readers who have experienced trauma
- It is a dense read that may require multiple re-reads to fully appreciate
- Some of the content is graphic and might be upsetting for some people
Learn more about the author
Augusten Burroughs is a self-proclaimed “professional memoirist” who has written several bestselling autobiographies, including Running with Scissors. Burroughs was born in Massachusetts in 1966 and raised by his mother and stepfather, both of whom were alcoholic pornographers. As a result of this upbringing, Burroughs struggled with addiction and mental health issues for much of his life. He eventually found sobriety and began writing about his experiences as a way to process them. His work has been widely praised for its honesty and vulnerability, as well as its ability to touch on universal themes like family dynamics and self-identity.
Reader Reviews
“This is an amazing book. I could not put it down. It is hilarious, disturbing, and honest.”
“Running With Scissors is disturbingly compelling. It’s one of those books that you can’t put down, even though you know you probably should.”
“Burroughs is a gifted storyteller, and his experiences are at once singular and universal. An astonishing achievement.”
“Some of the most harrowing, hilarious, and wrenching accounts of family life I’ve ever read.”
