A review by bookish_olga
I Am, I Am, I Am: Seventeen Brushes with Death by Maggie O'Farrell

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny inspiring reflective fast-paced

5.0

"I Am, I Am, I Am: Seventeen Brushes with Death" is a rare gem in literature, a five-star read that I couldn't put down from the first page to the last. This incredibly engaging book combines emotion, humour, reflection, and surgically precise language, creating an unforgettable journey through the life of the author, Maggie O'Farrell.

As someone who typically avoids memoirs, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved this book. O'Farrell's storytelling prowess transcends the genre, drawing readers in with her honest and captivating narratives. Each of the seventeen stories of close encounters with death is beautifully crafted, offering a glimpse into the author's resilience and zest for life.

O'Farrell shares with us seventeen personal stories of close encounters with death that have shaped her life. From a serious childhood illness to risky adventures in her youth, to the difficult struggle for her daughter's health – this book is both a moving memoir and a reflection on the fleeting nature of life.

The structure of the book is non-linear, with each chapter titled after a body part and the year of the event. Despite this unconventional form, the reader remains engrossed in the story, reflecting on the fragile meaning of human existence. The unique organization and honestly written stories make "I Am, I Am, I Am" stand out among other books of its genre. O'Farrell doesn't shy away from difficult topics, yet her narrative exudes joy for life and deep respect for the moments we are given.

This book is a true treasure, which I highly recommend to any literature lover.