She's Too Pretty to Burn

by Wendy Heard

“Why are you apologizing when you didn’t do anything wrong? That’s something we teach girls to do—always apologize, never be a burden. You have a right to take up space.”

I want to escape, but it’s me that’s the problem. There’s nowhere to go that I won’t also be.

I’m so glad I didn’t melt you down with steel and turn you into a lifeless, shining doll. What a waste that would have been. You’re too pretty to burn.

Above all, this book is for those who see themselves in its difficult moments. You’re never a waste; you’re so much more than pretty little things. Go forth in power and kindness.