Description
Because We Are Bad
Because We Are Bad begins at the tender age of thirteen. Lily Bailey found herself trapped in a web of self-doubt and guilt. Consumed by the belief that she was inherently bad, she carried the weight of her perceived sins on her young shoulders. In her mind, she had caused harm with a mere thought, unleashed unseen diseases, and even indulged in inappropriate thoughts about her peers. To alleviate this overwhelming burden, Lily resorted to a series of secret rituals, each more intricate and exhausting than the last. Yet, no matter how diligently she performed these acts of penance, they never seemed to be enough to absolve her of her perceived wrongdoings.
The Memoir
The memoir, Because We Are Bad, offers a beautifully written and deeply personal account of Lily Bailey’s childhood overshadowed by obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). As a child, she developed a second persona within herself, transforming the singular “I” into a collective “we.” This internal duality allowed her to externalize and manifest the compulsions that dictated her every waking moment. Bailey fearlessly delves into the inner workings of her mind, revealing how these forces beneath her skin orchestrated her actions, organizing and urging her forward.
The Journey
Her journey unfolds before us, from the countless nightly checks on her younger sister to her struggle to fit in and appear “normal” among her peers as she grew older. Ultimately, we witness her transition into young adulthood, where she learns to break free from the clutches of OCD and carve out her path in a vast and unpredictable world that refuses to conform to her desires.
Because We Are Bad
In its raw and unfiltered honesty, Because We Are Bad offers a spellbinding and redemptive narrative. It provides a rare glimpse into the mind and soul of an extraordinary young woman, allowing us to witness her triumph over the debilitating effects of OCD. Through Lily Bailey’s story, we gain a newfound understanding of this complex condition, shedding light on its intricacies and challenges like never before. This memoir is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and serves as an uplifting reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for healing and growth.
Reviews
“Bailey offers an authentic and stunning account of her struggle with obsessive-compulsive disorder in this beautifully rendered memoir. Bailey is a vulnerable, vibrant, and courageous narrator.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“Reminiscent of Girl, Interrupted and The Bell Jar, Bailey’s debut memoir is about living with a debilitating case of obsessive-compulsive disorder and her hard-won journey to recovery.” — Purewow, Best of the Best April Books
“Bailey is unsparing in her well-written memoir of her struggles with OCD, giving readers an intimate experience of living with the disorder. Her account focuses much-needed light on a condition that demands to be better understood.” — Michael Cart, Booklist
“Bailey’s memoir is an insightful look into growing up with OCD and a great choice for readers of books such as Susanna Kaysen’s Girl Interrupted. By transporting readers into her world, she makes understandable the urgent and debilitating obsessions of her experience.” — Library Journal
“Extremely compelling… deeply personal.” — The Guardian
“Even though this raw and emotive story can be heartbreaking at times, Lily is still wonderfully funny…. Because We Are Bad will grip you from the start and not only hold your interest but urge you to read on. This debut memoir is one everyone should read.” — O’Fallon Public Library Blog
In Because We Are Bad, London-based journalist Lily Bailey upends those mischaracterizations of [Obsessive Compulsive Disorder] by beautifully exploring her own life…. Bailey is incredibly honest in her memoir, and in the process, she shows how common OCD is and why it’s important to understand the compulsions that plague those with the disorder. You never know who’s struggling with it. — Bitchreads, 15 Books Feminists Should Read in April
About The Author
Lily Bailey, a multi-talented individual, is known for her work as a model and writer. Her career took a turn towards journalism in 2012 when she started working as an editor for a news site in London. Alongside her editorial responsibilities, she also contributed to various local publications such as The Richmond Magazine and The Kingston Magazine, where she penned engaging features and fashion articles.
Currently residing in London, Lily shares her home with her beloved dog, Rocky. Her passion for storytelling and eye for fashion has not only shaped her professional journey but also added a unique flair to her personal life. Lily’s dedication to her craft and her furry companion make for an interesting and fulfilling life in the bustling city of London.
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