A searing exploration of identity, disability, and self-acceptance.
Peat’s gripping narrative offers an unflinching account of living with Sturge Weber Syndrome and confronting a world that rarely looks beyond appearances. The book opens with a vivid account of her difficult childhood—endless health issues, surgeries, and the relentless stares of strangers. Peat tackles the realities of her condition head-on, laying bare both the medical challenges and the emotional scars left by society’s judgment. Her writing is direct and honest, detailing her battles with mental health and the constant pressure to rise above others’ expectations.
The memoir’s most gripping moments come when she delves into her family’s turmoil. Her portrayal of her father’s addiction is raw and nuanced, capturing the pain of his absence and the complexity of forgiveness and healing. Peat’s voice remains urgent and personal, confronting stereotypes and biases, while her academic background in sociology and gender studies offers depth. With vivid anecdotes and a clear, strong voice, Peat shows how she turned her personal struggle into a mission to support others facing similar challenges. This is a powerful call to reexamine our perceptions of beauty, normalcy, and difference.
Tellwell Talent
Pub date June 24, 2024
ISBN 978-0228831679
Price $25.99 (USD) Paperback, $32.45 Hardcover, $8.99 Kindle edition
