This is a different kind of biography that follows this young lady as she goes from one place to another, one city and state to another, trying to find where she fits in and belongs. Never really feeling wanted, because of her childhood, she moves herself on at times, after she’s an adult if things don’t feel comfortable. It’s a tough way to live, especially when she goes to Detroit, Michigan to meet a female, hoping for a relationship to blossom. One did for a while, but ultimately it doesn’t work out and she has to find somewhere else to stay.

Once again, she finds herself where she really knows almost no one, and is unfamiliar with the streets, the bad areas, etc. I enjoyed the book as I’m from Michigan (near the Flint area) and wanted to see how her time went in Detroit of that time. I found it interesting of course, as a snapshot of her experiences of that time and place. The writing needs the guiding hand of an editor to do a bit of massaging, but it is an honest read.  Advanced electronic review copy was provided by NetGalley, author Tianna Jones, and the publisher.

Not knowing who you are and what genuine love is leaves one vulnerable to the wolves of this world. Tianna has written a moving autobiography centered on her journey of self-discovery and healing.

While the writing is simple, the themes are complex and gripping. She advises readers to take a deeper look within and question their feelings. For example, she states “if you are telling yourself as you read my words that you’re feeling pain inside of you, it’s because it is caused from being hurt from your experiences.” Further, she reminds all readers that the sheer manifestation of their desires are in their control. How? By (1) maintaining a positive outlook and (2) understanding that the “only thing that can love you past your pain is God’s love for you.”

Analysis: All the themes may be familiar to those of us who have lived an emotionally intense life. There were no groundbreaking ideologies, as frankly nothing is entirely new in this world. The writing is mediocre, and there are some highly quotable lines. Cali Girl is a solid autobiography and an enjoyable story, though often predictable.

Recommended for avid autobiography readers who are interested in understanding the journey from abuse to healing.

I did not like this book or the writing so I did not finish it which is rare for me. This was about a girl who was abused as a child and her continuing abusive relationships.