mothermantis's Book Journey

WARNING: FEELINGS! This book impacted me so deeply because I am Jean. I didn’t have an affair with a professor, but I was taken advantage of by a friend. It directly lead to a mental health crisis that got me kicked out of school and ended my scholarship for an intensive classics program that produced the best of the best.

Langbein penned this eloquent, humorous, and poignant novel that is not only my story, but also the story of so many others. The final argument in Dear Monica Lewinsky is that solidarity brings both power and comfort. We must not silence ourselves or our comrades as they fight for justice. This is how we can make a difference.

Jean, the main character, is incredibly compelling. She did not want to shirk responsibility for her own missteps. However, Saint Monica, a representation of the women who paved the way before us, gives a different perspective. Saint Monica shows the necessary balance of personal responsibility and holding others accountable.

I’m thankful that I live during a time where I can read Dear Monica Lewinsky. It deeply impacted, healed, revitalized, and encouraged me.