Everything Harder Than Everyone Else by Jenny Valentish | Black Inc.

Everything Harder Than Everyone Else: Why Some of Us Push Our Bodies to Extremes

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About the author

Jenny Valentish

Jenny Valentish has been devoted to dancing around the void for many decades, first in the pub and then the boxing ring. The author of the acclaimed books Woman of Substances and Everything Harder Than Everyone Else, Jenny is a regular …

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Praise for Everything Harder Than Everyone Else

‘Valentish takes us into hidden worlds that fascinate, horrify, inspire and entertain. Valentish is your intrepid guide to fringe communities, where the members are hardcore and their wisdom is hard-won. The characters and stories will stay with you long after the last page.’ —Brigid Delaney

‘As a fan of wrestling and general out-there foolishness, I’ve often wondered – but couldn’t put into words – what drives people to such limits. An outstanding read.’ —Broden Kelly, Aunty Donna

‘A spiritual sequel to Valentish’s 2017 memoir Woman of Substances [and] a wild and page-turning ride ... The author’s enthusiasm for and deep research into the topic shine through, and she tempers the more confronting moments with candour, humour and self-deprecation. Like a Louis Theroux documentary, Everything Harder Than Everyone Else is an eye-opening exploration of unconventional lifestyles and the people who live them. It is a rollicking and insightful read for both enthusiasts and the simply curious.’ —Books+Publishing

‘Valentish ... writes about the psychology and physiology of extreme experiences with nuance and sensitivity. The result is an eye-opening tour of the human psyche.’ —Publishers Weekly

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