I used to hate cheetah print, but now, because of Glennon Doyle, when I see it, I smile. “Untamed” is a book about power, women, family, inequality, marriage, and mostly about love. It is filled with love, self-love, sister-love, mother-love, passionate love and past love. 

This book centers on the life of Glennon Doyle, a woman in her early 40s with three children, a wife, and an ex-husband. As a college student, I thought I could never relate to this description of life. I have no kids nor spouses and am the ripe old age of 21, but Doyle brings together perspectives from all ages, genders and times to make this book a quick read that leaves you wishing for more. 

The chapters titled with one or two words bring to life the essence of Doyle’s experiences and thoughtfulness as she continues to grow as a human being. As she processes learning to love herself, so does her reader; as she learns to better love her partner and children, so does the reader. She pulls you in with her quirky stories and helpful advice. Reading her life processes has encouraged me to think about my own path and what kind of person I strive to be.

While the style of writing was not as full or direct as I prefer, and the chapters have a choppy unplot-like structure that is a bit jarring, the content of this book is worth it all, and it’s content that’s greatly needed on EMU’s campus. 

Published in 2020, this book brings together themes that EMU is only thinking of addressing now. Themes about what it’s like to let go of old thoughts and give in to the new. Themes about finding your voice and being an avid learner. Themes about taking responsibility for mistakes made not just towards others but also towards yourself. Doyle addresses sexuality, racism, addiction, gender, relationships, and stress, all topics that EMU could use more discussion around. Even when I don’t always agree with her, I can understand where she is coming from and value her opinion.

“Untamed” was written as a gift for women but serves an audience much larger than that. It is filled with stories that inspire emotion and fulfillment. 

Reading “Untamed” has given me the inspiration to notice when I feel caged like a cheetah in a zoo, and how to let myself free. I  enjoyed reading “Untamed” and believe any person with a passion for change, self-discovery and growth would enjoy this book, especially those feeling a little lost or ready for something new. As Doyle herself writes in the dedication, 

“For every woman resurrecting herself. For the girls who will never be buried. Mostly, for Tish.”