Lisa Brennen-JobsSmall Fry: A Memoir

Gabby Padilla
I find stories about family dysfunction so fascinating, all the more when a family member involved is somewhat of an icon. We love to talk about brilliant men and their work and legacies, but we don't often hear about how they are as people, as fathers, as husbands. Even then, when they're not very nice people, brilliant men tend to get a free pass.
This memoir is written by Lisa Brennan-Jobs, the eldest daughter of Steve Jobs. She talks about her parents, who were separated before she was born, and how her father refused to acknowledge her existence until he had to take a paternity test for child support. She talks about eventually having a relationship with him and how odd it was to be his daughter while her mother struggled financially.
What I appreciate about her storytelling is that it didn't feel like a mere exposé; she didn't write about her childhood to make him out to be a terrible person. She understands the complexities of their relationship and, even at a young age, was able to see him with such empathy.
Her writing stays with you, and you probably won't see Steve Jobs the same wayーsorry, SJ fans! But whatever conclusions there are to be made about her father, she leaves them up for you to decide.
This memoir is written by Lisa Brennan-Jobs, the eldest daughter of Steve Jobs. She talks about her parents, who were separated before she was born, and how her father refused to acknowledge her existence until he had to take a paternity test for child support. She talks about eventually having a relationship with him and how odd it was to be his daughter while her mother struggled financially.
What I appreciate about her storytelling is that it didn't feel like a mere exposé; she didn't write about her childhood to make him out to be a terrible person. She understands the complexities of their relationship and, even at a young age, was able to see him with such empathy.
Her writing stays with you, and you probably won't see Steve Jobs the same wayーsorry, SJ fans! But whatever conclusions there are to be made about her father, she leaves them up for you to decide.