Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton is a memoir that explores the highs and lows of growing up, falling in love, and finding one’s place in the world. The book is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on Alderton’s childhood and early adult years, and the second part exploring her journey into her twenties. Alderton’s writing is witty, honest, and relatable, making this book a must-read for anyone who has ever struggled to find their way in the world.
Chapter Summaries
Chapter 1: The Beginning
In the first chapter of Everything I Know About Love, Alderton introduces readers to her childhood and early adult years. She grew up in a small town in the UK with her parents and younger sister, and was a shy and introverted child who struggled with anxiety and self-confidence. Alderton’s parents were both journalists, and they instilled in their daughter a love of reading and writing. Alderton’s first job was as a reporter for a local newspaper, which she loved despite the long hours and low pay.
Chapter 2: Love and Loss
In the second chapter, Alderton writes about her first love, a boy named Jack. The two met in college and quickly became inseparable. However, their relationship was cut short when Jack was diagnosed with cancer and passed away just a few months later. Alderton was devastated by the loss, but eventually found solace in writing about her experiences. She began writing a blog, which eventually led to her being hired as a columnist for a major newspaper.
Chapter 3: Finding Myself
In the third chapter, Alderton writes about her journey into her twenties. She moved to London and started a new job as a freelance writer, but struggled to make ends meet. Alderton also struggled with loneliness and isolation, as she had left behind her close-knit group of friends from college. However, Alderton eventually found a new group of friends and began to feel more confident and comfortable in her own skin. She also started dating again, and had a number of disastrous dates before finally meeting someone she clicked with.
Chapter 4: Love Again
In the fourth chapter, Alderton writes about her second serious relationship, with a man named Craig. The two met through mutual friends and quickly became inseparable. However, their relationship was tested when Craig was offered a job in New York City. Alderton was initially hesitant to move to the US, but eventually decided to take the leap. The two lived in New York for several years, and Alderton writes about the ups and downs of living in a new city, as well as the challenges of long-distance relationships.
Conclusion
Overall, Everything I Know About Love is a poignant and relatable memoir that explores the highs and lows of growing up, falling in love, and finding one’s place in the world. Alderton’s writing is witty, honest, and relatable, making this book a must-read for anyone who has ever struggled to find their way in the world. Whether you’re a fan of memoirs or not, this book is sure to resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds.