The Woman in Me by Britney Spears
I remember precisely where I was when I first watched the ‘Baby One More Time’ music video. You know that moment of realisation when you feel like, up until now, your life was meaningless? Sure, I might be exaggerating a bit, but witnessing the Princess of Pop dance around a high school enlightened me to two things: I love pop music, and Britney Spears is my idol.
I’ve followed Britney’s journey over the years – from the highs to the lows – with a consistent level of love and admiration that rarely waned. Despite the numerous documentaries and articles claiming to know the truth about Britney’s reality, I’ve largely steered clear, eagerly awaiting to hear her side of the story. So, when I learned that she was finally releasing an autobiography, I knew the truth was about to unfold.
And I was right. Britney lays it all bare in The Woman In Me. She starts from the beginning, setting everything straight. There were moments when I cried, realising how inhumanely her family, past lovers, and management treated her, how crippling her postpartum depression was, and how she still has a long road to recovery. Yet, her humour and quick wit shined through just as much, and a few confessions even made me cackle. It might surprise a few sceptics how intelligent and philosophical Britney actually is – she ponders on how her life has turned out and whether making (or avoiding) certain dicult decisions would’ve given her a better life.
I won’t spoil it for anyone, but I will say this: everything makes sense after reading The Woman In Me, and I’m unbelievably happy that Britney had the chance to write this incredible book. After everything she’s been through I think she deserves her freedom and self expression.