A review by paperknotbooks
Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I’m not sure how to articulate my fondness for this book. I relate to it in a way… I suppose? I am writing this review on my 39th birthday, of which we see Martha approaching her 40th with little to no grace nor thrill. Maybe it’s the bond she has with her sister I can see mirrored in my own relationships with my siblings? I think it’s the quiet sting of dark humor which tickles me. Not only do the characters have well modeled personalities, but the delivery of the story (world building, backstory, dialogue, etc.) have pulses of their own.

Part of the draw of this book is to  destigmatize discussions around mental health issues and normalize seeking help. I say this <i>generally</i> because the mental illness as it’s played out is just a jumble of symptoms; don’t use a work of fiction to diagnose yourself! And, I wasn’t in this book rooting for Martha and her diagnosis. Her POV is just plain fascinating. 

The focus of the story is technically Martha and fight against depression/agoraphobia/suicidal ideation/hallucinations/plus… BUT witnessing her interactions within her environment and how people of her inner circle have dealt with her. I don’t have to manage my mental health the same as Martha, but there are other themes of parenthood and relationships which resonate with my present state.

I love this book so much. I adore the quiet existence of a woman and the meta presence of this story. There’s a cyclical quality to the plot which I found endearing. So much so, I started the book again the second it finished! This was a feel good book for me. I am full of hope for myself and Ms. Martha.
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