Please Do Not Touch This Exhibit by Jen Campbell: A Book Recommendation

Please Do Not Touch This Exhibit by Jen Campbell

In Please Do Not Touch This Exhibit, Jen Campbell explores the intricacies of identity using Victorian circus motifs and folklore. She interlaces her personal narrative with mythological tales, creating a profoundly poetic memoir that celebrates the transformative power of personal storytelling.

Having endured a tumultuous childhood marked by physical challenges due to the fallout from the Chernobyl meltdown, Campbell now fearlessly challenges societal norms. Through her unique perspective, Campbell invites readers to reconsider their perceptions of disability.

There’s a whimsical element to her prose, making it a haunting peek into her surreal reality.

Two chapters into this poetry collection, I knew I was holding and reading something truly precious.

Jinna

If you’re giving Please Do Not Touch This Exhibit as a gift, here are a few things to consider:

It’s the perfect book for anyone who lives with, or knows someone who lives with, disability.

It’s a great addition to offbeat poetry collections. Also, it would be a wonderful gift for someone who’s intrigued by Victorian circus imagery.

Permission to judge a book by its cover!

At first, I was totally smitten with the title. Then I saw the cover and about lost my mind over how whimsical it is! This is one that I’m incredibly proud to display. My home library is in flux right now, so here’s a love photo from the author herself, @jenvcampbell!

*Please Do Not Touch This Exhibit fulfilled my POPSUGAR Reading Challenge prompt for a book that came out in the second half of 2023.