Stories That Give You Nerve
Sharing our stories unites us, frees us, and allows us to turn something awful into something beautiful, purposeful, and necessary.
As SA survivors, some of the stories we’ve read, watched, or listened to have held us, made us feel seen and most importantly, empowered. While content about sexual assault can often be triggering, some work has been exactly what we needed: reminders that our stories aren’t too heavy to tell and that what happened to us has happened to countless others.
As part of the Take Care Series, we’ve compiled books, podcasts, shows, and films to browse and revisit whenever you need a reminder of your place in a community of some of the strongest, most creative people on the planet.
HEADS UP: Some of the media listed below contains sensitive themes like trauma, sexual assault, abuse, and personal challenges. If you're feeling tender or unsure, we recommend searching Common Sense Media for content warnings before diving in.
If you need support while engaging with these stories, or ever, text HOME to 741741 to speak to a free crisis counselor or visit www.crisistextline.orgÂ
Books
Pack Light by tiffany roseÂ
Tiffany Rose's poetry and prose navigate childhood trauma, resilience, and healing, transforming raw, hidden experiences into words and inviting readers to reflect on their journeys and find strength in shared stories.
Somebody’s Daughter by Ashley C. Ford
Step into the world of a young Black girl growing up in Indiana, navigating a family fractured by incarceration, offering a poignant exploration of the complexities and isolation of her upbringing.
Know My Name by Chanel Miller
Written by Chanel Miller in 2019, this memoir recounts her experience as the survivor of a high-profile sexual assault case involving Stanford University athlete Brock Turner, capturing both the trauma and the legal aftermath in a compelling narrative.
Shout by Laurie Halse Anderson
Explore Laurie Halse Anderson's acclaimed memoir in verse, delving into her childhood, a pivotal experience of assault at 13, and her journey into adulthood.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou's seminal autobiographical work, first published in 1969, chronicles her childhood from age 3 to 16, bravely recounting a turbulent upbringing marked by trauma, resilience, and racial injustice.
Body Rites by Shena J. Young
This workbook embarks on a holistic healing journey rooted in decolonizing practices and reclaiming body sovereignty through indigenous traditions and land-based healing, emphasizing the importance of remembering for survival.
What My Bones Know by Stephanie Foo
Stephanie Foo explores the profound impact of complex PTSD on her life, delving into the science behind this often misunderstood condition while navigating a journey of reckoning and healing.
Film and Television
The Color Purple (1985), Apple TV, Amazon Prime
Spanning four decades in the life of Celie, an African-American woman surviving abuse and bigotry in the South, this epic tale is a testament to resilience and empowerment.
I May Destroy You, HBO Max
Created by Michaela Coel for BBC, this black comedy-drama series boldly explores themes of trauma, identity, and justice, earning critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling.
Finding the Strength to Heal, Our Wave Org
A short film documenting the journeys of sexual assault survivors, based on research by Dr. Laura Sinko, highlighting their paths to healing and resilience.
Baby Reindeer, Netflix
Adapted from Richard Gadd's autobiographical one-man show, this British comedy-drama thriller miniseries offers a gripping exploration of personal trauma and resilience.
Survivor Made, November 2024 Release
This documentary follows survivors of gender-based violence as they defy the odds, from building businesses in Los Angeles to lobbying in Washington, DC, showcasing their inspiring journeys toward justice and empowerment.
The Tale, HBOMax
Jennifer Fox's autobiographical film revisits childhood trauma through an adult lens, offering a raw and emotional exploration of coming to terms with past experiences.
Podcasts, Interviews and Talks
Call Your Girlfriend (Podcast), Episode: Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey
In this episode, Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey discuss their investigation into Harvey Weinstein’s abuse, which helped amplify the #MeToo movement, highlighting the impact of their work and the power of journalism.
Tarana Burke: Me Too is a Movement, Not a Moment (TEDTalk)
The founder discusses the movement's origins, offering solidarity and healing to survivors of sexual violence through shared stories, highlighting the transformative power of collective action and resilience.
In Search of More with Salamishah Tillet (Interview)
Salamishah invites readers to see the narrative and characters of The Color Purple from new perspectives and explore its cultural and historical significance before sharing her survivor story that led to founding the organization A Long Walk Home.
On Being (Podcast), Episode: Besser van der Kolk
The psychiatrist and trauma specialist shares practical help and unique wisdom on what's been happening in our bodies and brains in response.
Life I Swear (Podcast), Episode: Deun Ivory
As the founder of The Body: A Home for Love, Deun shares how creativity and joy are essential for Black women in processing trauma and reclaiming their power.
Do It For The Process (Podcast), Episode: Vyana Novus
Vyana delves into the intersection of creativity, trauma, beauty, and safety. It’s an invitation to feel deeply understood and reminded that pain, while challenging, can inspire profound, meaningful art.
This is a living list, so if you have encountered anything that stopped you in your tracks, helped you feel brave, or held your hand when you needed it, let us know. Leave a comment or send us a message so we can add it.Â
In the meantime, be encouraged by those who create alongside us that our stories are ours to tell. As our cosmic godmother, Chani Nicholas said in our weekly affirmation:
