Throughout the month of August, I’ve been reading through Connor Franta’s second and newest book, Note To Self.
It is more than an autobiography. It is more like a glimpse into his head and his heart. It is deeply personal, emotional, and very raw.
The book is beautiful in more ways than one— Note To Self is honestly the most aesthetically pleasing book I have ever owned. It is hard to peel your eyes away from the subdued yet so vivid images. They are framed perfectly on every page and compliment Connor’s words so well. The pictures alone are enough to inspire endless daydreams.
If I’m being honest, as we always try to be at twowildtides, I was not a huge fan of the writing style. Although I did warm up to it towards the end (all of my favourite passages were towards the end), it was difficult to enjoy the first few chapters. However, since this book is so personal, any other reader may interpret the words differently than myself. You may relate to the chapters that I did not find engaging at all, and vice versa. Everybody is different.
I strongly encourage you to pick up this book and read through it. Even though it does have some chronology, there is no true reason to read the chapters in order, so feel free to pick and choose what you read. Here are some of my favourite quotes:
They say the truth will set you free, but what they neglect to mention is what happens when the truth isn’t what you want to hear.
Let’s never forget our good days; we should string them together like pearls on a necklace, to be treasured and remembered whenever days don’t make us feel as good.
I would love to live in a world that does not stigmatize mental illness or shame people for seeking help regarding their mental health. Our minds are the most precious part of ourselves. It’s truly where we reside, and maintaining that important piece of ourselves is worth so much.
It doesn’t get any easier for those of us with desires that can never be satisfied— not from greed but from passion.
My favourite chapters were definitely “A Mindful Mind,” “Her Peach Sunglasses,” and “All of Me.” The poem I enjoyed the most was “excuses, excuses.” I also really enjoyed how he started and ended his book with letters to himself.
Overall, Note to Self by Connor Franta is extremely relatable. You will find comfort in that somebody else is experiencing the same thing as you. You will find truth in the words and inspiration in the images.
Have you read this book? What did you think? Let us know in the comments or on social media @twowildtides! We would also love to hear your book recommendations.
xoxo,
char
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