Readers’ Favorite Reviews
The Real Reason is a poetic memoir by Madisson Bednark. The author presents cathartic writing that discusses bisexuality, toxicity within blended families, inequalities, preconceived ideas about beauty, restorative justice, eating disorders, self-harm, unfairness to people with disabilities, and “homegrown homophobia.” Bednark details rape and the twisted minds who are responsible for it, receiving little to no repercussions for their actions. She explores the expanse of womanhood, outlines her survival, and shows readers ways they can have autonomy if they choose it. Her twenty-three poems convey a vivid portrait of a woman who has suffered through heart-wrenching trials and come out stronger on the other side.
Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers’ Favorite
Madisson Bednark doesn’t deny her pain; she embraces it as she shows women that they are not alone. Her work contains words that will burn through platitudes and resonate with you. With highly descriptive lines that illustrate powerful messages, even people who have not had intense trauma will see its effect on the writer and others who have had similar experiences. The author accurately describes her battle with anorexia as she shares a bulimic moment. As a recovering anorexic, I could relate to Bednark’s feelings about beauty and the messages ingrained in our minds from our caregivers and social media. I thought her work accurately summed up the life of American women as we all face certain challenges. We may not have encountered the same difficulties, but we see the challenges presented by our position. Readers who want to understand the feelings of a trauma survivor so they may sow seeds of hope for our future will benefit from reading The Real Reason.
Amazon Reader Reviews
“The Real Reason is such a unique and special piece because not only does the author manage to manipulate the written word in a way that shows inspired detail and artistically woven poetry, but to then balance that with content that dives deeply into personal trauma and important social issues is nothing short of amazing. What a fantastic juxtaposition that is to experience. By having the courage to share personal stories through intense storytelling, this book inspires all women across all boundaries to feel empowered to share themselves as well — and that is a gift the world is lucky to have.”
-Cassidy B.
“Reading these poems was like dancing. Moving across the page with forceful momentum and delicately swirling around hard truths. I found moments of relatability followed by reminders of the strength of women when we tell our stories. I will for sure revisit this book time and time again.”
-Cameron B.
“Madisson is a gifted poet. While the subject was sometimes painful, at other times it was whimsical and creative (you had me at cello). A wonderful reminder to be kind to ourselves and to others (spell bound). I look forward to her next collection of poetry.”
-Scott L.
“This incredibly deep and insightful memoir contains some critical and painful truths that every woman shares. Not all, of course, but I keep returning to those that mirror my experiences, and those of so many
woman I know. As an elder and a crone, I find it useful to return to certain chapters, to remind me of the lessons I need to revisit. In many ways these are similar to the storytelling of Women Who Run with the Wolves….stories that speak to our lives in many ways, and many times through our lives, as the lessons must be relearned. The depth of the experiences has me saying “Yes”…I understand, as I have been there, but often have not had the courage to share. Thank you, Madisson, for moving me, often resisting but knowing the need is great, into that journey.”
-Renee C.
The Real Reason In the Wild
