Not only is this book a compelling, funny and moving read but I think Another Us also gives valuable (and much needed) insight into family life where a child has been diagnosed with autism.
While I have friends with children on the spectrum – and I listen and try and understand what life can be like for them – Kirsten Hesketh’s book sets it out in high definition.
It feels authentic because the author has dealt with some (thankfully not all) of the issues mentioned in her debut herself – and that certainly adds power to her words.
Here’s the blurb:
What if Emma isn’t the person she thought she was?
Her younger son has just been diagnosed with autism.
She’s accidentally quit her job.
The marriage she was dedicated to suddenly seems like a sham.
She’s pretty sure that she is going to have an affair with a hot new dad at the school.
The only thing that stays the same is everyone else. Emma realises it’s not them – it’s her.
But if she’s not who she thought she was, can her old life fit in with the new Emma?
Some of you might remember Kirsten kindly took part in my Behind The Book series in 2018. I know what a journey she has been on to get into print and I’m so pleased she is finally there. This book deserves to be published.
It took me a while to warm to Emma but I think that’s actually really cleverly done (without giving anything away, all becomes clear later in the book).
There are some nice jumps back in time, which really help pace the story. Without them I think my head might have exploded with all the drama.
This is a lively, well-written tale which still manages to bring home an important message about the need for tolerance and compassion for our fellow human beings (and maybe to ourselves too?).
Format: Kindle.
Price: £1.99.
My rating: Five stars.
With thanks to Canelo (via NetGalley) for the ARC in return for an honest review.
After The Rain 