Summary

"Know My Name," by Chanel Miller, is a powerful and deeply personal memoir that reclaims the author's identity and voice after a highly publicized sexual assault case. Miller, previously known to the world only as "Emily Doe," steps forward to share her story, challenging the narrative imposed upon her by the media and the legal system.

The book opens with a vivid depiction of the night of the assault near Stanford University, but quickly shifts its focus to the aftermath: the hospital examination, the police interviews, and the slow, agonizing process of navigating the legal system. Miller details the emotional toll of being reduced to "Emily Doe," a nameless victim in court documents and news reports, and her struggle to reconcile her past with her present.

"Know My Name" delves into the complexities of trauma, memory, and the challenges survivors face in a society often quick to judge and slow to support. Miller unflinchingly examines the victim-blaming attitudes, the invasive media coverage, and the systemic failures that compound the pain of sexual assault. She recounts her struggles to maintain her sanity and sense of self as she battles against a legal system that seems more concerned with protecting the perpetrator than with seeking justice for the victim.

Throughout the memoir, Miller weaves in moments of resilience, humor, and deep reflection. She explores her relationships with her family, her boyfriend, and the many people who offered support and kindness during her darkest hours. She reclaims her name, Chanel, and celebrates her identity as a writer, an artist, a daughter, and a sister, refusing to be defined solely by the trauma she experienced.

Ultimately, "Know My Name" is a story of empowerment and survival. It is a call for empathy, understanding, and systemic change, and a testament to the power of reclaiming one's voice and identity in the face of injustice. Miller's eloquent prose and unwavering honesty make this a truly unforgettable and transformative read.