Lifeguard

I honestly did not realize that this was a memoir until 3 chapters in. I just thought it was very conversational, lol. Lifeguard is a memoir by Janet Fash chronicling her life as a lifeguard in New York's Rockaway Beach. Starting as a peon and eventually working her way up to becoming the first female lifeguard chief of Rockaway Beach. Beginning in the 80s and up through the present day, this memoir explores the sexism, the wild parties, the hazing, the lifesaving, and the corrupt culture behind the lifeguard union. It's a love letter to Rockaway Beach even during worst moments. This memoir has a very conversational tone and is a quick read at under 250 pages. Each chapter focuses on a year or two so the book really does span decades. An interesting and in depth look at the complexities of lifeguarding.