Thank you to Netgalley and Atria Books | Atria/Black Privilege Publishing for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed reading her story and really felt for her. I would recommend this book.

It was nice to learn more about Tamika and see where she intends to go. This is a very inspiring book and one all should slowly read to gain bits of wisdom.

::round of applause:: Yes black womam, do that! The editing in this book is superb!! I absolutely loved the story telling in this memoir. It reads like I’m there. I can’t wait to see what she writes next!

"A thought-provoking, honest, and truly powerful story of a black woman in America."

Tamika D. Mallory's memoir is one that should be on the shelves of all high school libraries. In this honest, heartfelt memoir, Mallory does not hold back. She shares her story and does not spare us any details. She shares the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Mallory grew up in the movement. As a child, she was taught to fight against racial injustice and for equality. Her favorite quote was "Power to the People!"

Mallory excelled in her classes and participated in the civil rights movement, putting her all into everything she did. Even though she expressed a hunger for information and did well in her classes, she was faced with racial prejudice and sexism.

Later on, as a teenager, Mallory began facing many battles. Her thirst for unlimited freedom and exploration lured her into street life, which she ultimately paid the price for. She made many mistakes that had terrible consequences, yet she describes this period of her life in precise detail, not shying away from judgment. This part of the book should be read with an open mind and a heart of understanding, as it delves into some very traumatic events.

Throughout the memoir, Mallory continues to share her experiences as a black woman in America, telling readers about the political violence and extreme discrimination she faced and continues to face throughout as a black woman who is an activist.

Mallory's memoir is a story of everything she's been through and how her experiences have brought her to where she is today. As she shares her experiences, she reflects on what's she's learned and how these lessons have influenced her.

This story is one that everyone should read, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, age, or gender. It's a lesson to all of us. I have a form opposition to politics and I'm distrustful of world governments in general (for historical and personal reasons), but I still found this memoir very thought-provoking, powerful, and empowering. I hope Mallory continues to lead a successful life and I wish her the best.

I thought this book was so well written. I often get bored with memoirs along the way but this one is one of the best I have read in a while. Painfully honest and thought provoking. I am now a fan.

Triumph over tragedy is the theme of a new powerful memoir from Tamika D. Mallory, social justice leader and co-founder of the Women's March. She is a trailblazing force from the early days of protesting with Black civil rights activist parents in Harlem to present-day work in America.

The beginning of Tamika's story reads like an urban novel reminiscent of The Coldest Winter Ever. She grew up in a solid two-parent household with doting overprotective parents that did their absolute best to raise her and not let the streets have an influence. As we know, sometimes it is the sheltered children that lash out. Her teen years were a product of that and led to rebellion. Tamika was the girl from a good home making bad decisions.

In a writing style that commands readers' attention, Tamika takes us through the details of her upbringing, consequences to decisions, young motherhood, addiction, romantic and professional relationships, faith in God, and journey to becoming the admirable woman we know today. One thing is abundantly clear: she was always fighting for the people, making her voice heard, organizing movements and an activist at heart.

Wow! Just wow! Tamika D. Mallory is unflinching in telling her life story. She bares it all with no apology, head rightfully held high, acknowledging missteps and celebrating achievements. She shares pain and blessings in great detail. It truly is a memoir of love, legacy and resilience. I Lived to Tell the Story is my best recommendation for nonfiction to read this Black History Month and beyond. Readers will feel inspired, motivated, heard, understood and called to action. Power to the people!

Happy Early Pub Day, Tamika D. Mallory! I Lived to Tell the Story is available on February 11. MasterClass is in session.

Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie

I was not familiar with Tamika D. Mallory’s story prior to picking up this book, but I had heard of the Women’s March. Given what the rhetoric around it eventually became, I was intrigued to read not only about the intersectional activism for Mallory intended the March, but also how her own struggles as a teenager, as a single mother, and grappling with addiction, ended up shaping her. She’s also not without controversy, as while she’s politically progressive and predictably has drawn controversy from the right, she also has some perspectives that don’t necessarily align with the left either. But while I don’t agree with everything she espouses, I respect what she has to say, and would recommend this to readers interested in activism.

Young Tamika had me stressed and I’m sure her guardian angel worked overtime. Because, gurl what?
The title is appropriate, she has lived. What I will say is I was not expecting this level of truth, yes it’s a memoir but she doesn’t omit the things that doesn’t show her in favorable light and that’s commendable. She came from a good home and had a penchant for the streets. It didn’t need to be that way, but she fully owns it. And she names, names! I don’t want to give any spoilers, but I do need to talk about this book! This would make a great Bookclub pick. When this publishes on February 11th, run to get it so we can talk!
Thank you Simon & Schuster for the Advance reader proof.

A powerful thoughtful and thought provoking memoir. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This couldn't be more topical or timely.

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for a honest review.

I had high expectations for this book. I lived in Louisville during the time of the Breonna Taylor protest and had the honor of meeting Tamika Mallory in person. This book was such a great read. I can see what has fueled her to do all of the work that she is doing in the fight for justice. I loved the candor in this read. So glad I had a chance to read it.

I usually don’t rate Memoirs because to me you can’t rate a persons life and their story, but for the sake of this review, I will. It was such a good story, the upbringing of the author was definitely a sight to see (or read). This is the perfect memoir to pick up and read during these trying times. I highly recommend. Especially to black women.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a digital review copy.

I am not getting along well with the author's style, so I'm putting this one down. Still recommend this for fans of memoir and stories about social justice activism.

Such a powerful read. Very inspirational. Loved the writing story of how her story was told. This is a book that every woman should read. Looking forward to adding the physical copy to my shelf!

Tamika D. Mallory's I Lived to Tell the Story is a powerful memoir about her life as an activist. She shares her personal story with honesty and vulnerability, from growing up in Harlem to becoming a leading voice for social justice. The book explores important issues of race, activism, and inequality in America. While some parts might be controversial, her story is ultimately inspiring and thought-provoking. I received a copy of this book for review purposes.

I Lived to Tell the Story tells of Tamika Mallory's evolution from a young girl with dreams to a powerful voice in the movement for justice is portrayed with depth and authenticity. Mallory offered an unfiltered glimpse into the struggles and triumphs that formed her path. I loved the conversational tone of the narrative with the personal anecdotes that provide offers further relatability. The commentary provided by family members, mentors, and fellow activists, are also well-drawn, providing a comprehensive view of the influences that have shaped her journey. I’m excited for the conversations that dialogue around this book will spark.

Loved this story, can’t wait to buy the physical copy. I’m recommending this to everyone. I felt so connected to this writer and her story.

I Lived to Tell the Story is the kind of memoir that grabs hold of you and doesn’t let go. Tamika D. Mallory’s writing is unapologetically raw, daring you to see the world through her eyes. What really makes this memoir shine is Mallory’s ability to blend her personal journey with the broader fight for justice. She doesn’t just recount events; she invites you into her world and challenges you to confront the uncomfortable truths she’s been battling all her life. Her words feel like an intimate conversation, pulling you in with each page, making you reflect on the intersection of race, activism, and the painful reality of a system designed to silence voices like hers. It is gripping, and serves as a powerful reminder that the journey towards justice and personal growth is never linear, but it’s always worth it.

”I was born fighting for freedom and I will die fighting . . . until freedom.”

Tamika D. Mallory has a powerful story, and it is a gift that she is sharing it with the world now. From humble beginnings in a Harlem housing project, to a string of bad decisions as a teenager, to raising a son alone as a single mother, to eventually becoming a social justice warrior and civil rights icon… Mallory takes the reader on an incredible journey through her own lived experiences, and it is an impactful read.

”Pain, loss, trials and tribulations, and ultimately triumph were the undercurrent of who and what I became.”

Mallory writes with authority on topics as personal as her own failures, addictions, tragedies, and losses; as far-reaching as the daily injustices committed against marginalized communities; and as universal as the desire for freedom & agency. Her words are poignant and transparent—she’s not trying to make anyone look good (including herself); she’s out to inspire us to do good, and she sets an example of activism that is fueled by both humility and passion.

”Goodness is who we are.“

This book won’t be for everyone. Politically left-leaning readers may feel like Mallory is insensitive, with her participation in anti-mask protests in NYC during the early days of COVID, and her name-dropping anecdotes of problematic celebs like Jay-Z and Diddy, in a book that (ironically) discusses her own experience as a victim of sexual assault. Readers on the right of the political spectrum may judge harshly Mallory’s multiple abortions and bold opposition to law enforcement.

Wherever your own lived experiences have taken you, the book will force you out of your comfort zone, as it did for me. I found myself in a place where I had to confront my own biases and examine the level of privilege I was born with. I am grateful that people like Tamika D. Mallory are willing to tell their stories, to raise awareness and fuel change, one reader at a time.

”In spite of everything that has happened in my life, and every decision I have made, good, bad, indifferent, I am worthy. I am worthy of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I am worthy of seeking and experiencing deep, unapologetic joy. Most profoundly, my voice deserves to be heard.”

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A huge thank you to Tamika D. Mallory, Atria, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Was very inspiring and insightful get to see that after everything the people who become activist are just human at the end of the day. Very much a need to read.

a lot of candor and some impressive storytelling in this very cool memoir by an awesome person. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.