Official Review: In Hindsight

Elvis Best · Post by **Elvis Best** » 21 Dec 2020, 03:06

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "In Hindsight" by Sharon Bonanno and Lisa Scott.]

4 out of 4 stars

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In Hindsight: The Story Of How Two Sisters Hurt, Hindered, And Healed Each Other, written by Sharon Bonanno and Lisa Scott, narrates the life story of two sisters, Sharon and Lisa, who have gone through a lot together. Their parents divorced when they were kids, and they stayed with their mom thereafter.

As time went on, things were not smooth for them, with their dad becoming virtually nonexistent in their lives, their mom having to work two to three jobs to take care of them, and to top it off, Lisa becoming diabetic at age six.

Fast forward to their adult lives, Sharon has a rewarding career as a teacher and is married to Anthony, with whom she has three kids. Lisa, on the other hand, is floundering through life, a drug addict who is hurting herself and everyone around her. Soon, things come to a head when Sharon, together with their mom, stages an intervention, finally confronting Lisa about her addiction and the hurt she is causing them.

In this riveting memoir, Sharon and Lisa share the roles they played in each other’s lives. Although they were led down different paths in life, their lives have been inextricably intertwined since childhood. Writing In Hindsight is their way of looking back and examining the circumstances that have led them to where they are today. Their story is one of hope, family, and second chances. More importantly, does Lisa ever get her life back together? You have to read the book to find out.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed reading In Hindsight, as the authors’ writing was excellent. Indeed, I am not certain whether this is their first book, but it felt as though they have been writing their whole lives, improving and honing their skill. This became evident when I got engrossed in the book as if it were fiction, although the sisters were narrating their true-life story.

Furthermore, I was able to truly connect to their story, to feel their emotions and empathize with them. Their narrative touched my heart, and perhaps I may have been too emotional, but I cried at some points.

I also enjoyed reading the memoir from two different points of view, as Lisa and Sharon took turns to narrate their version of how things happened. This helped me to understand them better and to put myself in their shoes.

Further, although the book addressed difficult topics, it was quite easy to read. This was mostly due to the authors’ excellent writing, which I mentioned earlier. In fact, I dare say that In Hindsight was an enjoyable read, one that I will cherish for a long time to come. Moreover, to give you a sense of the authors’ writing, I have included the following excerpt from the book:

"It was a balance not only of body and gravity, but of caution and daring—as much a test of his confidence as an assessment of his coordination” (loc. 85).

Considering the aforementioned points, I rate In Hindsight 4 out of 4 stars. Truly, I can rank it as one of the best memoirs I have read so far. Also, I found nothing to dislike about it and believe it was exceptionally edited, as I found no errors in it. There was some strong vulgar language present in it, though. Finally, I would recommend the book to individuals who have had to deal with addiction in their lives, whether directly or indirectly.

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In Hindsight
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Raluca_Mihaila · Post by **Raluca_Mihaila** » 22 Dec 2020, 09:52

It looks like the sisters have been through a lot, and their experience can help people who are struggling with the same issues. Thank you for your recommendation and your great review!

Eutoc · Post by **Eutoc** » 22 Dec 2020, 15:55

These two sisters have a lot of touching stories to share. A reader could easily find a tinge of hope from their story.

Post by **Atieno Magero** » 24 Dec 2020, 01:24

This seems like a good memoir to read. Your review definitely did this book justice. Great review!

Honest-reviewer · Post by **Honest-reviewer** » 25 Dec 2020, 10:50

After reading your review I’m excited to read this book. I enjoy reading memoirs. Thanks for your wonderful review.

Saint Bruno · Post by **Saint Bruno** » 26 Dec 2020, 09:34

This book is a testament to the fact that our pasts shouldn't stop us from achieving something good in our lives. Thanks for the insightful review and recommendation.

Ayindelaw · Post by **Ayindelaw** » 28 Dec 2020, 03:17

I like this book already. The 'grace' period and the 'take action' period is so similar to the way I deal with issues. And in hindsight, I've always been satisfied with the results. Kudos, Elvis.

Ayora · Post by **Ayora** » 30 Dec 2020, 14:06

I can imagine how hard it is for Lisa to cope with diabetes at age six. This is a book I'll love to read. Thanks for a detailed review.

Manali_DC · Post by **Manali_DC** » 02 Jan 2021, 00:15

Thanks for a great review. This sounds like an interesting memoir and a book I would like to read!

Amrita B · Post by **Amrita B** » 18 Mar 2021, 09:37

Wow !! What a great review indeed . I think this story is worth reading as many people will be able to relate to the struggles , triumph everyone goes through but the bond between siblings remains strong as ever . Would definitely read this book . Thank you for such a great review .

Aan Granados · Post by **Aan Granados** » 18 Mar 2021, 09:38

This sounds like a touching memoir. I think I can relate to their story. Great review.

Roy Nick · Post by **Roy Nick** » 18 Mar 2021, 09:42

It always feels sad when one sister turns out strong and victorious while the other falls into addiction. The parents, especially the mothers, often ask themselves what they did wrong during parenting. I hope all went well for Lisa.
The review is admirable!

Yvonne Monique · Post by **Yvonne Monique** » 18 Mar 2021, 09:44

The bond between sisters can be very strong, but also difficult to maintain. Nice to see how the sisters wrote the book together and both displayed their points of view.

smolbird · Post by **smolbird** » 18 Mar 2021, 09:44

A story about recovering from addiction and realizing that their actions have consequences not only on themselves but the people around them is sure to be a worthy read. Thank you for the review!

Etienneza · Post by **Etienneza** » 18 Mar 2021, 09:52

Thank you for the intricate detail provided. The lives of the two sisters certainly provides food for thought. Time provided the necessary space to heal and come to an alternative mindset. Our lives intersect but we have to hold ourselves to account for personal outcomes.