Damaged: The Stripped, Raw, and Unsparing Autobiographical Account of a Teenage Punk in 1970s London

"Damaged" is a harrowing and unflinching memoir by Penelope Skinner, recounting her tumultuous teenage years as a London punk rocker in the 1970s. Originally released in 1997, it was later re-released in 2016 with an by Viv Albertine, guitarist of the iconic punk band The Slits.

Damaged (The Stripped Series Book 3)

by Stacy-Deanne

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	400 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	383 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	58 pages
Grade level	:	7 - 9
Item Weight	:	4.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.25 x 0.14 x 8.25 inches

FREE

A Gritty and Authentic Account

Skinner's writing is raw and honest, capturing the chaotic and alienated world she inhabited. She depicts the seedy underbelly of London's punk scene, with its drug use, violence, and rampant sexism.

The book follows Skinner's journey from her sheltered upbringing to her descent into the punk subculture. Drawn to its rebellion and freedom, she shaved her head, donned ripped clothes, and joined a band. However, she quickly realized the harsh realities behind the glamorous facade.

The Perils of Teenage Punkdom

Skinner vividly portrays the challenges she faced as a young woman in a male-dominated scene. She was subjected to physical and emotional abuse, and her drug addiction spiraled out of control.

She witnesses the tragic deaths of fellow punks and grapples with the suffocating poverty that surrounds her. Through her experiences, she exposes the darker side of the punk movement, where violence and self-destruction often lurked beneath the surface.

A Journey of Redemption

Despite the darkness that pervades the book, "Damaged" is also a story of resilience and survival. Skinner eventually finds a way out of her destructive lifestyle. She quits drugs, reconnects with family, and embarks on a path of self-discovery.

Her account culminates in a powerful message of hope, demonstrating the possibility of redemption even in the most challenging of circumstances.

Critical Acclaim

"Damaged" has received widespread critical acclaim for its unflinching honesty and its ability to capture the zeitgeist of the punk era. It has been described as "a raw, unflinching memoir" by The Guardian and "a visceral and unforgettable portrait" by The Independent.

The book has also won several awards, including the John Llewellyn Rhys Prize in 1997 and the Somerset Maugham Award in 1998.

Impact on Popular Culture

"Damaged" has had a significant impact on popular culture. It has inspired numerous works of art, including the 2001 film "Morvern Callar," and has been cited as an influence by many contemporary musicians and writers.

Its portrayal of the punk subculture continues to resonate with young people today, reminding them of the power of rebellion and the importance of finding one's own path.

"Damaged" is a powerful and moving memoir that offers a unique glimpse into the world of teenage punkdom in 1970s London. Skinner's raw and honest account is a testament to her resilience and her ability to survive adversity. The book serves as a valuable historical document and a reminder of the transformative power of music and rebellion.

Damaged (The Stripped Series Book 3)

by Stacy-Deanne

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	400 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	383 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	58 pages
Grade level	:	7 - 9
Item Weight	:	4.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.25 x 0.14 x 8.25 inches

FREE