Get Me Out of Here by Rachel Reiland

Title: Get Me Out of Here

Author: Rachel Reiland

Published: 2002

Genre: Memoir

Grade Level: Adult

-Trigger Warning: Child Abuse

-Movie Rating: R

-Features: Borderline Personality Disorder

Audiobook

Read by: Mazhan Marno

Length: 11hrs 53min

Recommend: Yes!

Blurb (from goodreads):

With astonishing honesty, this memoir reveals what mental illness looks and feels like from the inside, and how healing from borderline personality disorder is possible through intensive therapy and the support of loved ones.

A mother, wife, and working professional, Reiland was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder at the age of 29—a diagnosis that finally explained her explosive anger, manipulative behaviors, and self-destructive episodes including bouts of anorexia, substance abuse, and promiscuity. A truly riveting read with a hopeful message.

Disclaimer: My review of this memoir is not in any way a reflection upon the author or their life. I am a book reviewer, I review books… not people.

My Scores:

Writing Style: Solid

I put off reading this memoir, first because of its length, and second because I didn’t think BPD was something I would understand. Much to my surprise, this has become one of my favorite memoirs of all time!

It was such a raw, candid, and open account of her mental state that I couldn't help but feel for the author. I could relate to her on so many levels, and at times it felt like I was going through therapy right along with her.

Unlike the last memoir I read, this one is well-organized, clear, and focused. The beginning hit me hard in the gut, and I wanted so badly for her to turn out alright that it kept me in suspense the entire way through. So even though it was longer than I’m used to, it didn’t ever feel long. In fact, I was extremely disheartened when it ended.

Characters: Memorable

(I known they’re real people. I’m referring to them as character’s anyway.)

The novel focuses on two characters: Rachel Reiland, aka the patient with BPD, and the psychiatrist. They are the heart and soul of the novel, and I loved reading about their relationship. Though I don’t know much about therapy, I can’t help but think this was not a typical run down. 

It's quite shocking the way that he respond to her aggressive, manipulative, and bizarre behavior. Even more shocking is how his explanations make her seen less bizarre and more like anyone else trying to cope with trauma; I believe that was the main reason why I could relate to her. Without them, I think I would find her a very dislikable character, one in desperate need of a reality check. Keep this in mind as you read other reviews of this book.

Plot: Absolute Page Turner

There is never a dull moment. It starts off with a bang by introducing us to a hardened, no-holds-barred, yet deeply troubled mother of two. From there you never stop rooting for her, at least I didn’t. I saw her pain and sadness behind her aggressive and hurtful behavior, and I wanted nothing more than for her to find a way to be happy.

Overall: Totally Obsessed

Overall, I’m totally obsessed with this book. I learned so much, not only about BPD but about myself as well. It’s now one of my all-time favorite memoirs. I highly recommend it!

Goodreads Rating: 5 out of 5 stars