Melissa Fraterrigo released a memoir, “The Perils of Girlhood" last year. The book's cover depicts a disheveled doll signifying themes explored in the essays like self-image, female friendship and romance.

Last year, Melissa Fraterrigo released a memoir, “The Perils of Girlhood.” The book is full of essays she wrote over a five-year period, reflecting on her self-image, her childhood in the 1980s and ’90s, female friendship and romance. 

“More Like Dad” was the first essay she wrote for the project. It explored her dad’s temper and how she sees her own temper flaring up around her twin daughters. 

The Purdue University professor said she and her children used to write to each other in a mother-daughter journal to communicate things in a safer space.   

On Feb. 27, Fraterrigo will bring this practice to other mothers and their daughters. During the event, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Kids Ink Children’s Bookstore, guests will be encouraged to write to each other using writing prompts. 

“Writing allows you to be vulnerable in a way that speaking does not,” she said. “I hope they share experiences, strengthen their bonds and create something together.” 

In addition to the workshop, Fraterrigo will also read from “The Perils of Girlhood” and sign books.

If you go

Mother-Daughter Journaling Workshop

🗓️ 6-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27
📍 Kid’s Ink Children’s Bookstore, 5619 N. Illinois St.
🎟️ Free

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Mirror Indy reporter Mesgana Waiss covers arts and culture. Contact her at 317-667-2643 or mesgana.waiss@mirrorindy.org.

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