It Had Me At "Hello"

Moonlight on Linoleum: A Daughter's Memoir by Terry Helwig
(Adult Memoir)

To over use a trite phrase, this book had me at "Hello".  To be honest about it, it had me at the "Foreword" (but that doesn't sound nearly so good).  As soon as I started reading this book, it pulled me in and smothered me and just wouldn't let me go until I read every blessed word.o
Terry tells the story of her life--being the daughter of a mother who is mentally ill and struggles with substance abuse.  Ultimately, it is the story of a child balancing adulthood and childhood and being the parent to a patent.  I'd love to give it more of a summary, but that is best part--boiled down to the truest substance.

It is hauntingly and beautifully written.  This is the book of a true master, weaving her story like a spider and pulling the reader in, line by gossamer line.  It is a story of sadness and tragedy; but, more importantly, it is also a story of hope and enduring love.  It calls to mind a favorite quote of mine by Jan Karon, "Everything that is loved cost a price."  To know that one can survive such heartache as is depicted and then look back on it unflinchingly is a thing to be marveled at.  I don't know how to say more--it's like trying to give words to a beautiful sunrise.  It just is.......beautiful.

(Note:  I received a free copy of this book from Howard Books, for my honest review.  The opinions expressed here are my own.)