A Normal Person Doing Normal Things

An Uncomfortable Memoir

Non-Fiction - LGBTQ
255 Pages
Reviewed on 05/09/2023
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Danelle Petersen for Readers' Favorite

During high school, Jay Colburn first discovers the truth about himself: He does not like girls the way other boys do. Jay immediately starts hating himself and wishes he was ‘normal’ instead of drooling over posters of his favorite rock band’s lead. Time passes, but his self-hatred doesn't end. Instead, Jay engages in destructive behavior with its own set of consequences. Depressed, Jay reaches out to God and realizes that loving himself and accepting that he is flawed is all it takes to live a happy and fulfilled life. In A Normal Person Doing Normal Things, Jay shares his experiences and teaches us that others’ opinions of us should never matter; our imperfections and individuality are what make us unique and that “It doesn't matter how you show up. Just show up."

Let me start by saying this book is hilarious and insane. What a ride! A Normal Person Doing Normal Things by Jay Colburn has all the attributes that make a book memorable, not just a boring ride down memory lane. I couldn't stop laughing. It is amazing what this young man had to endure and still be so upbeat. I love that he never judged anything or anybody. He also has a relatable quality that makes you want to be his friend. Chapter Fourteen was such a highlight for me. I loved Jay’s reasoning about what God and all of existence meant. His perspective is interesting. Also, Jay’s first prayer to God as an openly gay man was simple yet profound.