Review by Scarbaby -- In Hindsight

[Scarbaby]

[Following is a volunteer review of "In Hindsight" by Sharon Bonanno and Lisa Scott.]

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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, is a beautiful memoir co-written by two sisters. Inside this emotional true-life story, Sharon and Lisa share detailed accounts of their journey to inner peace while navigating addiction as a family disease. Throughout the authors' vulnerable and intertwining narratives, topics of their parents’ divorce, young Lisa's diabetes diagnosis, and the tense relationship with their father and new step-mother are explored. The intense power of addiction is told through Lisa's eyes, whilst the pain and patterns of co-dependency are shared by older sister, Sharon.

Sharon, a parentified child, learned early on how to compartmentalize her feelings surrounding her broken relationship with her father and the responsibilities of caring for her younger sister, Lisa. She channeled her "fix-it" mentality to all areas of her life and could solve most problems that came her way. With a loving husband and three wonderful children, a stable career as a teacher, and a beautiful home, it seemed all the pieces had come together for her. There was just one thing she couldn't fix--Lisa's problems. Lisa, often labeled the "sick" child while growing up, was never given a real chance to exhibit responsibility for her own life. Because of pressing concerns for her health, Lisa was not held accountable for careless and questionable patterns of behavior. As time went on, Lisa was only enabled more. Struggling to make sense of their broken family and changing roles, the two sisters coped quite differently; Lisa turning to substances to numb her pain, Sharon feeling an overwhelming need to care for and protect Lisa.

As someone who has an educational and professional background with mental health and substance abuse, I found this memoir to truly depict the honest elements of addiction. While reading In Hindsight, it was easy to feel like I knew both sisters. I found myself fighting for both Lisa and Sharon throughout their individual stories and applauding them with every achievement--both big and small. It was important for the reader to not just hear the story of Lisa and her addiction, but the impact that her addiction had on the family system. As the story unfolded, I found myself humbled and drawn to their journey of personal growth and self-discovery.

With each alternating chapter, the authors' writing continued to impress. Both sisters were able to capture such vulnerability, as if their past experiences were happening in the present moment. Due to the raw-nature of emotions uncovered within the memoir, it was only natural to have moments of profanity appear. However, any vulgar language used by the authors was in moderation and typically used in dialogue. There is nothing I would change about this book and I cannot think of any possible negative aspects to report.

Overall, I would rate In Hindsight 4 out of 4 stars. Both authors' writing was exceptional and the narrative was extremely well-edited. After choosing this book, the reader will likely find themselves on a remarkable journey of love, inspiration, and truth; a journey that most of us can relate to in one way or another. I recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about addiction as a family disease or to anyone who could use a story of hope and healing.

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In Hindsight
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[John Owen]

Seems an interesting story. Will decide whether to read it or not. Nice review!

[markodim721]

A co-written memoire is something you don’t see every day. The book is very good and the review is excellent!

[language_nut]

I've just read two of your reviews, both of them beautifully organized, cogent, incisive, comprehensive, and generous of spirit. In every phrase, your words revealed to me a person of both feeling and intelligence. No wonder you liked these two books, one pointing out how much feelings are ignored in our culture, the other chronicling the emotions of two sisters struggling against the negative forces of that same culture. No wonder you described so well how those books made you feel, as you read them. And, no wonder you did not hesitate to give both books a 4 out of 4. Both your thinking and your writing are very impressive.

[Kavita Shah]

I haven't read any memoirs yet but can start from this one. Thanks you for an honest review!

[Holly Fleming]

In Hindsight sounds raw and engaging. I appreciate authors willing to address complex issues, such as addiction and family dynamics. Thank you for this insightful review.

[Scarbaby]

I've just read two of your reviews, both of them beautifully organized, cogent, incisive, comprehensive, and generous of spirit. In every phrase, your words revealed to me a person of both feeling and intelligence. No wonder you liked these two books, one pointing out how much feelings are ignored in our culture, the other chronicling the emotions of two sisters struggling against the negative forces of that same culture. No wonder you described so well how those books made you feel, as you read them. And, no wonder you did not hesitate to give both books a 4 out of 4. Both your thinking and your writing are very impressive.

As a social worker I do tend to wear my heart on my sleeve—a bit too much I imagine! Thank you for your kind words.

[Scarbaby]

In Hindsight sounds raw and engaging. I appreciate authors willing to address complex issues, such as addiction and family dynamics. Thank you for this insightful review.

I agree with you Holly. It’s very respectable to discuss topics that expose such vulnerable parts of ourselves.

[Scarbaby]

I haven't read any memoirs yet but can start from this one. Thanks you for an honest review!

I think there’s something to be gained from this memoir even if one cannot directly relate to topics of addiction and mental health.