Day: February 18, 2011

A fascinating account of one woman’s battle with a spate of mental illnesses ranging from psychoses to schizophrenia, and the various treatments that are administered (usually by trial and error) ranging from psychoanalysis and group therapy to legally prescribed drugs.

What is remarkable about her story is that it not only provides for a better understanding on how to help oneself–or another–to overcome mental illness, but to realize that despite such odds, it is even possible to wildly succeed in a profession of choice, in this case a teaching career in academia.

A bit scary about how thin the “edge” can be between sanity and insanity.

Outstanding in every way, the prose and poetry that Amis employs to conjure up visions of Russia’s past and present is chilling to the bone, leaving you shaking at the end of it at the stark cruelty of the universe alongside the sublime beauty of moral complexities.

Plus, if you’ve ever wondered about the art of letter-writing, Amis’ protagonist will show you a thing or two on how it is to be done.

Absolutely one of the finest books of 2007 that I’ve had the pleasure to read and count as my first one of 2008.

Two big thumbs up! (Now let me quickly check the AADL and put on hold each and every Martin Amis book they might have!)