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In this heartbreaking memoir, the author details her struggle in raising a family where her spouse and later her daughter suffered from the effects of bipolar disorder. Holding things together as best she can despite a lack of support, the author outlines what life is like for a person not suffering from the condition, and how to manage expectations and behaviors as someone sharing a house, a family, and a life with those who do. Nothing is held back on topics such as addiction, divorce, strained family relations, and eventually a tragic and horrific event that ends her daughter's life. Unflinching in its honesty while still remaining an emotional and personal story, this intimate reflection pulls no punches even as it discusses challenging and harrowing subjects in order to truly illustrate the range of effects and symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Often, when a book is framed in this way, the person with the disease or disability takes center stage, and the narrator or caretaker lives in the shadow of that obstacle, as it often is in real life. The author's narrative explores how her circumstances impacted her opportunities and mentality, providing a voice and platform for those who frequently struggle in silence. All of that does not diminish the love and concern that permeates every memory and recollection for her daughter, but it does tackle its subject literally. This is the author's story to tell, of how raising a family affected by bipolar disorder extends well beyond those afflicted. The end result is a balance of warm memories, maternal love, and the reality that the invisible battles are not ones that others can be easily relieved of, regardless of the supports and safeguards put in place.