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Sleeping With a Stranger
What happens when the strong, ambitious man you married fades into a stranger with an illness no
doctor can diagnose?
When Jessica Zimmerman’s husband Brian contracted a mysterious illness that left him 60 pounds
underweight and a prisoner to their master bathroom, she had no idea the journey of self-discovery
on which they were both about to embark. As Jessica and Brian worked to solve the riddle of his
illness, they also had a harder question to was their marriage even worth saving? Sleeping with a Stranger is a searing, honest and hilarious memoir about learning how to love even in
the darkest of moments, and how to find yourself when the compass is lost. As Jessica’s business
takes off, and the demands of being the sole provider increase, she begins to discover who she was
always meant to be, even if that goes against the Southern culture in which she was raised. Bucking
up against old ideas and even older Southern traditions, Jessica’s story is also a rallying cry for
women coming to terms with their trauma in order to find healing.
Sleeping with a Stranger is a testament to the power of healing—how we can heal our bodies, our
spirits, our relationships with others, and ultimately, ourselves. As Brian finally recovers, and Jessica
recognizes that she can never go back to the old script that so many women follow, they begin to
negotiate a new marriage and learn the greatest lesson of we can reclaim our true selves at any
time.
doctor can diagnose?
When Jessica Zimmerman’s husband Brian contracted a mysterious illness that left him 60 pounds
underweight and a prisoner to their master bathroom, she had no idea the journey of self-discovery
on which they were both about to embark. As Jessica and Brian worked to solve the riddle of his
illness, they also had a harder question to was their marriage even worth saving? Sleeping with a Stranger is a searing, honest and hilarious memoir about learning how to love even in
the darkest of moments, and how to find yourself when the compass is lost. As Jessica’s business
takes off, and the demands of being the sole provider increase, she begins to discover who she was
always meant to be, even if that goes against the Southern culture in which she was raised. Bucking
up against old ideas and even older Southern traditions, Jessica’s story is also a rallying cry for
women coming to terms with their trauma in order to find healing.
Sleeping with a Stranger is a testament to the power of healing—how we can heal our bodies, our
spirits, our relationships with others, and ultimately, ourselves. As Brian finally recovers, and Jessica
recognizes that she can never go back to the old script that so many women follow, they begin to
negotiate a new marriage and learn the greatest lesson of we can reclaim our true selves at any
time.
278 pages, Hardcover
Published May 7, 2020
6 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
December 20, 2022
3.5
How do you rate and review a memoir, especially about such difficult subjects?
I honestly struggled for a lot of this book. The author's actions and thoughts grated on me. She came across as uppity and selfish. But then I realized that she knew this about herself and was making a point, and as I watched her learn and change, her story clicked for me.
I think my big takeaway is that hardship and resentment can come into any marriage, so rather than thinking my relationship is immune, I want to be aware, be open, and slow down.
The writing sometimes felt choppy and heavy handed, but I think memoirs get a pass for writing style; people with unique life experiences aren't necessarily literary crafts(wo)men. I read the whole book in a day, so my irritations obviously weren't enough to force me to put it down.
I was a little wary when the story veered toward alternative medicine. I still don't know how I feel about all of that, but far be it from me to deny someone's experiences. At the very least, the author offered a perspective I don't often consider, which is probably good for me.
CW: occasional strong language and non-graphic sex within the context of navigating a difficult marriage
How do you rate and review a memoir, especially about such difficult subjects?
I honestly struggled for a lot of this book. The author's actions and thoughts grated on me. She came across as uppity and selfish. But then I realized that she knew this about herself and was making a point, and as I watched her learn and change, her story clicked for me.
I think my big takeaway is that hardship and resentment can come into any marriage, so rather than thinking my relationship is immune, I want to be aware, be open, and slow down.
The writing sometimes felt choppy and heavy handed, but I think memoirs get a pass for writing style; people with unique life experiences aren't necessarily literary crafts(wo)men. I read the whole book in a day, so my irritations obviously weren't enough to force me to put it down.
I was a little wary when the story veered toward alternative medicine. I still don't know how I feel about all of that, but far be it from me to deny someone's experiences. At the very least, the author offered a perspective I don't often consider, which is probably good for me.
CW: occasional strong language and non-graphic sex within the context of navigating a difficult marriage
April 13, 2020
Sleeping with a Stranger is Simply Brilliant!!
This book is hands down the most authentically raw books I have ever read. It drew me in from the beginning. I had a hard time putting the book down yet I forced myself to so I could extend the enjoyment it gave me. I had so many emotions going through me as I read this book. One second I would be laughing, the next second tears welled up in my eyes, and next second the book brought smiles to my face.
This book is truly a beautiful story and it is amazingly well written. I’m so grateful Jessica shared her incredibly dark, painful, and inspirational story with the world. It leaves you reflecting on yourself and wanting more out of life. This book is filled with little treasures, moments, and nuggets of wisdom. Happiness really does depend on one's own self. You have to do the internal work and put in the effort to get more out of life. This book is filled with little treasures, moments, and nuggets of wisdom. Happiness really does depend on one's own self. You have to do the internal work and put in the effort to get more out of life.
-Courtney Kern, Events Beyond
May 20, 2020
I knew Jessica back in our Kitchen Store days. It was a really special experience to read her story. The vulnerability and courage that she shows by telling this story really blew me away. She's not afraid to admit those dark thoughts that many of us have at times, but never share with anyone. Her story of how being raised in the South and how that shaped her views of what marriage "should" look like really resonated. I have felt I was battling against those ideals for many times in my life! While Jessica's story if her own unique experience, there are so many things that the reader can connect with. No matter what your life journey has brought to you, we all have to eventually step back and look within ourselves if we want to find the real answers to our own peace and happiness. You will not be disappointed with this read!!
April 16, 2020
You may not have heard of this memoir yet - the author isn’t a celebrity, we’re from the same hometown. But if you like memoirs or inspiring stories, you probably don’t want to miss this one. I downloaded it yesterday with the intention of starting it...but I literally couldn’t put it down and read the whole thing. I had to set an alarm so that I would stop reading and cook dinner last night. 😆 Jessica Zimmerman is beyond talented as a floral designer and entrepreneur, and has always appeared to live effortlessly. This book is a refreshingly honest look at the inside of her life and a look at who she really is. It’s blunt. It’s honest. It’s inspiring. It’s a great book. (Currently only available as an ebook, physical release on May 7th) 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 18, 2021
Loved this book - so captivating and inspiring!
October 25, 2021
What a life story!
At first I thought Jess was a very spoiled, selfish person. As I read more of this life story I realized I was wrong. Her husband’s illness changed the family and I believe her determination saved his life. I liked how the family was stronger in the end.
At first I thought Jess was a very spoiled, selfish person. As I read more of this life story I realized I was wrong. Her husband’s illness changed the family and I believe her determination saved his life. I liked how the family was stronger in the end.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews