Searching for beta readers. WIP memoir/guide on grief

[Leslie]

Hi everyone! I’m looking for thoughtful beta readers or critique partners for my memoir-in-progress, The Ball Still Bounces: Grief, Identity, and the Versions of Us That Loss Leaves Behind.

In the span of 11 years, I lost my only sibling, my father (to suicide), and my mother. This book is my story—raw, reflective, and at times unexpectedly funny. It’s part memoir, part guidebook for grievers and those who love them.

Rather than focusing solely on death, this book explores what survives it: the parts of ourselves shaped by the people we’ve lost, the complicated beauty of continuing to live, and how grief changes not just our hearts—but our identities.

Along the way, I offer practical insights for friends and family who want to support someone grieving, as well as reflections.

If you’re interested in emotional storytelling, dark humor, and a fresh, human take on grief that doesn’t tie it up in a neat bow, I’d love your feedback.

The manuscript is ~20k words so far. Wanting to see if im going in the rught direction before i continue to really dive in fully DM or comment if you’re open to reading and sharing your thoughts!

Can send as a google doc.

Thank you!

[Liz~In~Colorado]

I have a similar story of loss, and I'm trying to decide what direction to go from here about it..
I'd love to take a look. I also may ask you to look at something of mine for your thoughts?
There's no DM here, I sent a friend request for you to accept, then we can speak in msgs.
Liz🌷

[Leslie]

I accepted and sent a message. Let me know if it went through. Thx

[Moran]

Hey Leslie, I will be glad to help with a constructive feedback.
I sent you a request, let's talk more in Dms

moranjassiah248@gmail.com

[Gentle]

Hi Leslie, I would love to help you beta-read your story. If you are still looking, feel freeto contact me at
gentlelens129@gmail.com