A review by cmcdaniel4
Between Two Kingdoms: A Memoir of a Life Interrupted by Suleika Jaouad

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0

I adored this book: not simply a book about facing a life threatening illness, but self discovery, relationship challenges and rewriting trauma. Jaouad’s writing is gritty, heartbreaking, but hopeful and life affirming all at once. I wish it focused more on her impromptu journey across America to meet all the strangers who sent her letters during her cancer treatment… but is overall, exquisite and loaded with gut wrenching honesty! One of its biggest strengths is how the book grapples with the immense pressure the fallout from her diagnosis puts on her relationship with her boyfriend… and recognizing both his undeniable devotion at the beginning, his obvious love for her, but also how the long term strain of caregiving and continual sacrifice (at a pivotal time in both of their young adult lives) frayed their relationship over time. It’s rare to see an imperfect love story.  While at times Jaouad’s testimonial is uncomfortable read, I felt I had grown as a person by the time I read the final sentence. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings