Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Hiraeth: The Voice of Home is Dan Morgan’s memoir, tracing his life from a late-born child in a troubled Pittsburgh family, detailing his complicated relationship with his alcoholic father and his development of humor and coping mechanisms. Morgan recounts his early fascination with Roller Derby, experimentation with drugs, and pushing through school and family issues. He shares his college years, complicated coming-out experiences, and his gradual immersion into gay culture via fear and secrecy. He talks about his diverse work history, including carnival and fitness jobs, his periods of homelessness in San Francisco, and his growing involvement in comedy. As Morgan grows into himself, he pursues academics but battles with depression and PTSD. Morgan’s journey reflects a search for self-acceptance, reconciliation with his past, and commitment to living authentically while supporting others.

Dan Morgan’s Hiraeth: The Voice of Home is a beautifully written memoir that thoughtfully and courageously invites us on his journey through discovery and, eventually, healing. I was originally drawn to the book because I grew up in San Francisco in the 1980s, and I really love reading about the experiences of others. There is a connection even if I do not know, or know of, the author. Morgan's story stands out for its raw honesty. He balances uniquely careful attention to detail with a sincere tone, and we are invited into a space that feels safe because Morgan created that space for himself and others. There is a remarkable amount of patience and empathy that we see later when he comes to terms with breakdowns in the family and their history. The pacing allows readers to absorb Morgan’s evolving sense of identity, and there is no question that his healing process was, and continues to be, hard-earned. But earned it is. This memoir is a testament to a life fully lived, and those who were lost but live on here.