When a book has fictional characters but an autobiographical story, it is hard to know where to put this. Does it belong with fiction? Non Fiction? I decided to have a category on the website for Novellas. Sophie’s one is the first novella that I have reviewed
I started this book and, within 24 hours, I had devoured it. While many have found it a challenging read due to its heavy subject matter, I personally did not struggle. Perhaps it’s my nursing background or my own experience with cancer that shaped my perspective; I’m not entirely sure.
This beautifully written novella is autobiographical in nature, detailing Ms. Kinsella’s journey, her family, and her battle with stage IV Glioblastoma. Readers accompany her through the trials of diagnosis, treatment, and the painful reality of memory loss. What shines through most is the undeniable importance of a strong support network in navigating such harrowing times.
“What Does It Feel Like?” powerfully captures the stark reality of brain cancer, presenting it without any sugarcoating. The rawness and integrity with which Ms. Kinsella writes evoke a whirlwind of emotions. You’ll experience the joy of the “yit” story during a family Scrabble game, only to be pulled into the depths of trauma and pain as she grapples with forgetting names, dates, and even basic skills. You’ll feel the despair of her husband, who must repeatedly remind her of her illness, and you can sense her mother’s heart-wrenching fear of losing her daughter through heartfelt notes and emails.
The early morning conversations between Ms. Kinsella and her husband deeply resonated with me, reminiscent of my own late-night talks with my late husband. The playful debate in the family Scrabble game over whether “yit” counts as a word, made me chuckle, a testament to the moments of lightness woven into the narrative.
This book is not just a story of illness; it’s a poignant exploration of love, resilience, and the human spirit. It invites readers to reflect on their own lives while offering a moving glimpse into a family’s fight against cancer. Highly recommend this compelling read.