Rating: ★★★★☆
I want to preface this blog by thanking Lisa Gordon for buying me this book and another book to read. I truly appreciated it!
Between Two Kingdoms
“Between Two Kingdoms” by Suleika Jaouad is a deeply moving memoir that paints a stark yet poignant picture of life with cancer. It’s a journey that takes the reader through dark and harrowing times, making it challenging at moments, yet it’s hard to put down.
The author’s narrative is raw, unfiltered, and well-written. It offers an intimate look into the reality of a life interrupted by illness. The sense of despair and hopelessness is palpable in the book’s early stages, making for a particularly heavy reading experience. However, the darkness highlights the resilience and strength of the human spirit, making the eventual emergence into the light even more profound.
The last 50 – 100 pages…
The last fifty pages provide a welcome change of pace as Jaouad begins to rediscover herself in the aftermath of her disease. Her relationship dynamics add another layer of intrigue to the story. Readers may find themselves rooting for a reunion with Will, but it is her reconnection with Jon that ultimately transpires. This unexpected twist adds a depth to the story, demonstrating that life—and love—rarely follow the paths we anticipate.
During those last few pages, you ride in the backseat of her loaned Suburu and ride across the country with her rescue dog. Jaouad stops in various places to reconnect with people who had written her from her article. One of her last stops was visiting a man in deathrow.
Self Discovery
Jaouad’s self-discovery and growth after her battle with cancer are inspiring, serving as a powerful reminder of the human capacity to adapt and find meaning in the face of adversity. Her story is a testament to the idea that life doesn’t end after a diagnosis—it changes, evolves, and can even flourish in unexpected ways.
“Between Two Kingdoms” is a compelling memoir that offers a raw and honest portrayal of life with cancer. While it delves into the darkness, it also illuminates the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of rebirth after trauma. It’s a book that will grip your interest, tug at your heartstrings, and stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
