In You Can't Get Rid of Me, Jesse Scott explores his search for identity and connection with his past. Raised in a loving yet misunderstood adoptive family, Jesse has difficulty with his complicated emotions about his birth family. His search for his biological mother, suspected to be Native American, becomes central to understanding his roots. He speaks on issues with his adoptive father, who disinherited him and his brother after their mother's death. Going deeper, Jesse talks about people like Les, a supportive older friend, and opens up with painful memories, including abuse by a foster father, confusion over sexuality, and problems with addiction. Throughout the memoir, Jesse balances past traumas with moments of hope, leaning into relationships, caregiving, and his ongoing quest for family. His DNA results spark a new discovery, but questions remain unanswered.

In You Can’t Get Rid of Me, Jesse Scott gives us an intelligent, raw memoir that is shared stoically, but still with remarkable vulnerability. The writing style is simple and straightforward, and I liked the transitions between lighthearted nostalgia—such as family vacations and the curious case of a boyfriend who was something of a unicorn as a gay male Republican (yes, really)—and the darker, more painful recollections of rejection, addiction, and trauma. Nowadays, the use of ancestral DNA services is so widespread that I know of very few people who have not used one, and Scott shows us first-hand what benefits they can provide, but also the things they can dredge up. I did not expect the outcome, but it is fitting given that nothing in Scott's life is ordinary. He is the living embodiment of finding solace in small victories, and he lets us into his life with a mix of humor, heartbreak, and hope in a deeply human portrait that lingers long after turning the final page. Recommended.

Everyone longs to experience unconditional love—a place where they feel secure, have a sense of belonging, and the assurance that their truth deserves to be heard. Unfortunately, this was not the case with Jesse Scott. As an adopted boy, Jesse grew up under the weight of his adopted family's expectations, constantly seeking their love despite the hostility he received, coupled with the fact that he struggled to come to terms with his sexuality. His life involved numerous traumatic experiences, including being placed in mental health facilities and enduring various forms of abuse. Despite these challenges, Jesse was determined to make meaning out of his life and find his purpose. He also discovered his ancestral roots. Would this be the answer to Jesse's questions? Would his identity and value as a person be established? Find out in this thought-provoking memoir You Can't Get Rid of Me, written by Jesse Scott and Keri Ault.

You Can't Get Rid of Me is a memoir that highlights the societal issues of the struggles faced by adopted children who are not properly cared for, the effects of drug addiction and rape, and the significant impact of family and societal condemnation. I love how the memoir explores the in-depth meaning of resilience, survival, and purpose. The feeling of being accepted is truly explored in this book. Jesse Scott's use of imagery and raw honesty elevates the narrative, stirring up powerful emotions ranging from anger and fear to a longing for hope and closure. I also appreciate the attention to detail in the work. You Can't Get Rid of Me is a beautiful story with lifelong lessons on family, love, and acceptance.