I grew up in the 1980’s but have very few cultural references defining my childhood. Perhaps it was that we only had access to PBS when I was young or that we lived in Germany during my kindergarten years. Whatever the reason, I didn’t grow up watching SheRah or listening to Michael Jackson.
Ninety percent of the time, these cultural ignorances don’t impact my daily life. In fact, it wasn’t until college when people would reminisce about childhood that I realized I had “missed out” on anything.
Amena Brown’s new book, How to Fix a Broken Record is filled with these cultural references. This memoir takes us through Brown’s journey to self-acceptance and confidence in her identity. The concept of finding God in the grooves of our life’s record is beautiful imagery but I never fully connected with this book or Brown’s story.
I was trying to figure out why because I have read other books whose cultures are vastly different than my own in which I’ve been able to connect. For whatever reason, I never found that small bit of myself in Brown’s story.
If you do connect with pop culture and its references, I think you’ll like Brown’s take on how we view our journey. Her writing is conversational and reading it feels like a conversation. I know many will find encouragement in her words.
Did you grow up immersed in pop culture? How does your experience with the culture of your youth shape your relationship with God?
GIVEAWAY! I am giving away my copy of How to Fix a Broken Record. Leave a comment and I’ll randomly select a winner on Friday, December 15, 2017. (United States addresses only.)
I received this book free from the publisher via BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest opinion.
Annie Rim 
Oh yes. I was a teenager in the 80’s, so I was immersed in pop culture. From music to TV shows, I knew what was hip…even if I wasn’t. With that being said, I don’t think that you necessarily “missed” anything. Now that I’m older, I don’t give a rip about most elements of popular culture. I may have missed some things by not having access to the diverse culture that you experienced.
The only thing I think pop culture influenced in my relationship with God was music. I became a Christian at 14. I loved Jesus, but I didn’t like the “acceptable” Gospel music of the time (hymns sung as if Jesus died but never resurrected). I liked contemporary Christian music that had the musicianship and rhythm of 80’s secular music, but with a godly message. Again, maturity gave me a respect and love for the old hymns (sung with triumph), but I still love a good jam.
Haha! I feel like I’ve progressed through life pretty well without all the pop culture knowledge. 😉 Just funny when people rely heavily on it for their message. You’d probably get way more out of this book because of the references!
I had no idea this book had a spiritual path. I am in my 70’s so my culture is not pop culture of today or the ‘80s. I think I would find it interesting to read. Have seen it often on Instagram.
I heard her at a MOPS convention years ago but have never ready any of her books. It’s a good, fast read.
You won my copy! Email me your address and I’ll send it along. 🙂 anniehrim@gmail.com
Did I ever reply? It doesn’t look like I did. Is it still mine? If so, Cheryl Weaver; 90 Monroe Street, 1004; Rockville, MD 20850
Yes! I leant it to a friend (hope you don’t mind!!) so will get it back and send it along to you. I know she already read it – it just may take a week or so. 😉
Thank you!