Is she really a volunteer?
The Volunteer
The Girl Who Stopped Wearing ClothesD.H. Jonathan wrote two books about a college girl who "volunteers" into going nude 24/7 on campus. This is my review of both books.
I'll cut it straight to the chase, Danielle Keaton doesn't volunteer to be nude on campus. She doesn't want to, she doesn't choose to, and when she agrees to the program, it is clear in my mind that it is under duress.
So, we have here a victim, a girl forced nude on campus against her will, something I find completely abhorrent and hateful.
Why did I keep reading then?
Right, why?
Because D.H. has talent, dammit, and for a while, I wanted to sympathize with Danielle's plight and see where, as a victim, she would get her revenge.
And she doesn't? Instead, she gets something better. Clarity, freedom, a sort of self-confidence, and resilience that only reveals itself in the face of adversity.
Danielle first resists her fate but soon enough learns to embrace it. And as she does, it's like the campus itself becomes more accepting of her.
Now, with hindsight, I see her journey as one of self-acceptance. She got forced into a situation against her will but soon learned to accept it and even to thrive with it.
The premise might be all wrong, but the conclusion isn't. And the journey is worth it.
Now, even as a naturist today, I have to ask myself: would I have enjoyed being Danielle?
Well, no. Because for me, naturism is a choice, and Danielle didn't choose. But at the same time, in the face of this obligation, I am inspired by her ability to still function.
I don't think this book is for everyone, but I enjoyed her emotional progression and how she was able to make friends.
Not my favorite series, but fun to read.