rainbowbookworm 's review for:

Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder by Salman Rushdie

3.5

reflective slow-paced

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I’ve always been fascinated by Salman Rushdie, particularly because of the fatwa issued against him, though I had never read his work before. After his attack in 2022, I was curious about his well-being, so when I learned about Knife, I knew I had to read it. I borrowed the audiobook from the library since Rushdie narrates it himself, and hearing him tell the story of the attack and his recovery made the experience even more powerful.

The book is deeply personal, offering an unflinching account of that day and its aftermath while also providing glimpses into his life beyond the headlines. His recovery was not easy to read about, but the details are not gratuitous. More than just a recounting of violence, Knife is a reflection on resilience, love, and the importance of community. Rushdie’s reflections on the support of his loved ones are especially moving, serving as a reminder of how vital it is to build connections and find strength in others during difficult times.

Whether or not you’ve read Rushdie before, if you’re curious about his attack and its impact, this book is worth picking up. He speaks candidly about both the visible and invisible wounds he carries and about a healing process that remains ongoing.