For me, Another Word for Love by Carvell Wallace is one of those books that hasn't received nearly as much hype as I believe it deserves. Released in May of this year, Wallace's memoir is comprised of individual essays that could absolutely stand alone but are also deeply unified in their exploration of "love," or more specifically, what love looks like in different contexts, within different relationships. Wallace's writing is brutally honest and raw, and he does not shy away from calling out injustice when he sees it, while also earnestly apologizing for his own mistakes. Wallace also narrates his own story, and I highly recommend the audiobook format of this book to hear his words in his own voice.

It is worth checking the trigger warnings for this one, as there are many, but the book also doesn't get bogged down by its heavy content. At its core, this book is about family, self-care, community care, hope, reparation, and above all else, love.

Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced listener copy.

Another Word for Love is a lyrical, reflective and heartfelt memoir. I especially enjoyed reading this on audiobook, which was narrated by Carvell Wallace himself. Highly recommend this book for fans of Hanif Abdurraqib (which is high praise in my book).

Sincere thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the audiobook. And thank you to Traci from The Stacks podcast for bringing this book to my attention!

Carvell Wallace's writing has always stuck with me, but this memoir was as raw, ragged, and honest as I've ever read him. Being read by the author lends more vulnerability. I'm grateful for his ability to string together words that allow the reader to feel the emotions, sensations, worries honestly.

Audiobook ARC from the publisher via NetGally, but the opinions are my own.

There were some sections of really beautiful writing in this memoir, but it ultimately didn't really come together for me. I listened to it over the course of a few days while traveling and there just wasn't enough of a common thread running through it to really hold my attention.

I was not familiar with Carvell Wallace before listening to his audiobook, "Another Word for Love." I was immediately drawn in by his inviting tone and warmth. This memoir is essentially a series of chapters from his life, woven together to share his experiences with the reader. There were many times I found myself tearing up while listening to his story, especially during moments from his childhood that were downright heartbreaking. Somehow, though, Carvell managed to keep hope alive and has become a successful speaker, podcaster, journalist, and father.

I especially loved how he adored his mom. There were times when he didn't really understand her as he was growing up, but it is clear from the way he tells his story that he had great admiration for her. As an adult, he has a better understanding of the struggles she faced. Carvell is a stand-up man, and I felt privileged to hear his story.

Despite the many dark times he has endured, Carvell has a deep well of strength that he draws upon. Some of the anecdotes he shared have stayed with me long after listening to his book. I hope this book finds many readers who need to be inspired by Carvell's story.

Wallace’s early life is not a happy one — it’s one of abuse and difficult encounters to listen to, but ultimately it’s about redemption and as latter half introduces, it’s about recovery and discovery of self. Here is where we get the title of the book: “Reunion: an attempt to be made whole again. That is another word for love.” Wallace’s stories are full of honesty and empathy for the people in his life and especially for the capacity they hold. Even as they actively damage him, he portrays their humanity. He does address specific moments of abuse, but the mentions are brief. Continue to adult Carvel’s story for an evolving look at self that touches on his perspectives on Blackness, queerness, and the patriarchy — all without veering too far into navel-gazing territory.
(Published recommendation to be sent to email subscribers of WordSmarts.com)

A memoir comprised of one long form and multiple short form essays. This narrative prose reads like poetry much of the time. It is lyrical and beautiful. It is at once both deeply personal and broadly relatable. We all have other words for love and Mr. Wallace helps shine a light on those things we might already appeciate or might be missing. Fans of Darnell Moore and Kiese Laymon will enjoy this book. Thank you to NetGally and the publishers for the audio ARC.

Story and Content: A-
Writing: A
Narration: A (read by the author)
Best Aspect: Mr. Wallace has a way with words, the prose was beautiful. Heartbreaking but raw and real to hear the struggles he has faced.
Worst Aspect: Some parts very a bit graphic. Check triggers.
Recommend: Yes.

I really loved this memoir, the audiobook was great. Lovely, poetic writing style. Felt more like a series of essays than a traditional memoir.

Thank you Net Galley and Macmillan Audio for this copy of Another Word for Love!

I loved this memoir. I loved the narration. I loved the retelling of a life in fragments.

Carvell Wallace packs his incredible life story in this book that I wished was 100 pages longer. The first part was so raw and moving, I was in tears while listening to it. I had not heard of Wallace before this book and I am now in need of looking up everything he’s ever done.

I’m so happy to have read this. At times soft and warm and at times bold and challenging. I loved these parts just the same. There are some rough moments that Wallace shares, please do check content warnings and triggers before picking it up!
I can’t wait to buy a physical copy of this book - it’s a truly wonderful read.
5/5 stars.

A fantastic memoir, but maybe I would think of it as less of a memoir and more of short stories that lead to the author overcoming past trauma and learning to love himself and others. This book was so well written, there are so many quotes I wish I could have highlighted or copied and pasted into my notes app. But I was listening to it via audio, so I will be purchasing this one and reading it again.