I must admit, whenever somebody suggests that I read a self-help book or book surrounding mental health, I immediately refuse. I always think that most of these books are the same, as if the authors were programmed to write about magic ‘solutions’ to my problems when in fact, they themselves do not even take their own advice. The sad truth is that most of these books are nothing but money-making schemes which is why I was sceptical when I first heard that global megastar, Anne Marie was releasing her own book. Despite this, I leaped at the chance to grab a copy of the book and attend the book signing of one of my favourite singers. I just could not help myself, being especially enticed by the brightly coloured front cover.

Luckily for me, my expectations were exceeded. It would have been very easy for Anne Marie to relay the same old facts and mental health advice that every other author has written about time and time again. There would have been no risk in that. The fact that she risked her reputation to be 100% truthful and honest about her experiences of mental health was refreshing and showed how important the topic is to her.

Whilst the book is no literary work of art, it is a very real and sincere account of Anne Marie’s struggle with mental health. She does not claim to know how best to give advice but readers will clearly be able to relate to her experiences of not fitting in and feeling insecure about herself, being reassured that even the most famous celebrities battle with their thoughts. We are all human at the end of the day, which is something that Anne Marie makes very clear. 

Anne Marie’s personality is embedded throughout the book, with hand-drawn doodles and drawings included, which helped provide the reader with more of a connection to what she had to say. After reading the book, readers come away feeling like they have just been talking to a friend rather than reading a part self-help and part autobiography of an international superstar.

The scannable QR codes scattered throughout the book was a refreshing and original concept that only added to the intimacy of the book. By scanning these codes, readers can watch videos of Anne Marie in mini vlog style clips that give an insight into both her good and bad days. This idea is one that I would love to see more of in other autobiographies.

In all, Anne Marie’s book is clearly aimed at her fans rather than the average reader but does well in connecting with those on a similar journey to her through the book’s personal approach. You Deserve Better is a must read for anybody who is either struggling with their mental health and wants somebody to relate to or simply wants to know more about Anne Marie’s life.

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