"I Have the Right To" by Chessy Prout is a compelling memoir that sheds light on the issue of sexual assault and its aftermath. Chessy Prout, a survivor herself, recounts her personal journey with courage and resilience. This evaluation essay aims to discuss the positive aspects of the book, highlighting its empowering message, while also acknowledging its shortcomings, particularly in terms of depth and perspective. Despite its limitations, "I Have the Right To" succeeds in creating awareness, providing support, and inspiring victims of sexual assault to reclaim their voices and fight for justice. A positive aspect the book has is that it provides an empowering message that raises awareness through a personal narrative. In fact, the book's …show more content…
Prout’s emphasis on self-advocacy and the importance of standing together against sexual violence resonates deeply with readers, fostering a sense of unity and hope. “I need to get away from here, from him, from what he did to me. I do not know who to tell or what to do. As I walk with Lucy and Katie uphill past the pond and the squash courts, a stillness comes over my body. I have to tell Lucy” (Prout 7). By sharing her vulnerability, Prout connects with readers on a profound level, allowing them to empathize with her experiences and those of countless other survivors. This personal touch makes the book relatable, relaying the gravity of the issue while avoiding a detached …show more content…
"I Have the Right To" primarily reflects Prout's personal perspective, leaving room for a broader range of voices and experiences to be incorporated. While Prout's personal story is captivating, the book falls short in exploring certain aspects of her experience and the broader issue. The book could have benefitted from including testimonies from other survivors, experts, or individuals involved in the legal process. Prout only mentions the story of one other woman in the introductory section. “We danced, we listened to music, we enjoyed the party. Until one young man assaulted me in a cruise and insulting way, and I ran” (Prout 1). Had Prout mentioned more stories of survivors, they would have provided a more comprehensive view of sexual assault and offered a platform for a more diverse array of stories to be heard. Furthermore, the narrative occasionally lacks depth, leaving readers yearning for a more comprehensive exploration of the emotional, psychological, and social repercussions of sexual assault. A more nuanced examination could have offered greater insight and a deeper understanding of the survivor's