Rare Bird (Review)

Rare Bird, by Anna Whiston-Donaldson is a memoir filled with tragedy, heartbreak, and hope. I would imagine writing this book was cathartic for the author. She experienced great loss, and her grief weeps from each page. I can’t fathom the pain of losing a child.

I found it difficult to read this story, and now to review it. It’s so sad, and made me anxious and tense. I don’t normally read sad stories, and this book reminds me why—because my mind focuses on the horribleness of grief, fear, and pain and it takes some time for it to seep back out. Even if the story contains redemption and resolve, it’s challenging to resurface from the sorrow.

Because of the subject matter, and because it is a true memoir, I’m voicing my opinion as tenderly as possible. (Focusing on things like plot, flow, characters, etc. seems insensitive, but I don’t mean to be.) But I do feel the need to mention the author tends to be repetitive, which proves taxing at times, but her heart, tenderness, and honesty keeps the plot moving.

If you enjoy memoirs with an abundance of emotion, Rare Bird is for you. It reveals pain, hope, and strength of the soul.

I give this book a 4 star rating.

I received this book from the Blogging for Books program in exchange for this review.