By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Jen Hatmaker's latest memoir, *Awake*, is a raw and unflinching exploration of personal upheaval and transformation. With her characteristic candor and wit, Hatmaker delves into the dissolution of her 26-year marriage, a journey that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring.

The narrative begins with a harrowing discovery: Hatmaker overhears her husband whispering to another woman in the dead of night. This moment shatters her world, propelling her into a tumultuous period of self-discovery and reinvention. She doesn't shy away from the messy realities of her situation, candidly discussing her struggles with mental health, single parenting, and financial independence. Her honesty is both refreshing and relatable, making the reader feel as though they're confiding in a close friend.

What sets *Awake* apart is Hatmaker's willingness to confront the systemic issues that contributed to her crisis. She critically examines the patriarchal structures, religious doctrines, and cultural norms that have long dictated women's roles and identities. This introspection adds depth to her personal story, transforming it into a broader commentary on societal expectations and the courage it takes to defy them.

The memoir is structured in a series of vignettes spanning four decades, a narrative choice that mirrors the fragmented nature of memory and healing. This approach allows Hatmaker to weave together moments of joy, sorrow, and revelation, creating a tapestry that is both intimate and universal.

Critics have lauded *Awake* for its authenticity and emotional resonance. The *New York Times* describes it as "a full-throated praise song to the body: its wisdom, its patience, its trustworthiness, even when society and religion say the opposite." ([jenhatmaker.com](https://jenhatmaker.com/blog/awake-new-york-times-review/?utm_source=openai)) This praise is well-deserved, as Hatmaker's narrative is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of self-awareness.

However, some readers may find the memoir's introspective nature and focus on personal growth to be self-indulgent. While Hatmaker's journey is compelling, those seeking a more traditional narrative structure or external conflict may be left wanting.

In conclusion, *Awake* is a poignant and thought-provoking memoir that challenges readers to examine their own lives and the societal constructs that shape them. Hatmaker's journey from devastation to empowerment is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is potential for growth and renewal. This book is highly recommended for anyone navigating personal upheaval or seeking inspiration to live more authentically.

Recommendation: Highly recommended!

written on: 10/2/2025