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The Memory of Light

Review

The Memory of Light

In THE MEMORY OF LIGHT by Francisco X. Stork, Vicky's reached rock bottom and she realizes she has two choices: give up or start the journey to recovery. She's already tried to give up once, in her attempted suicide, but was found and taken to the hospital before the pills could reach their full effect.

Her dad thinks wants Vicky to return to her daily life, but Vicky and her doctor, Dr. Desai, convince him to let her stay at the hospital for a couple of weeks. With the daily Group Therapy Healing, she meets Mona, Gabriel and E.M., all with unique situations just as dire as hers. They help each other learn many new things, and Vicky looks deeper into herself than she ever has and discovers things that will eventually help make her depression more manageable.

A heartfelt, realistic novel that gives the reader a close look at what it's really like to live with a mental disorder.

While piecing her own life back together, Vicky also manages to impact the lives of her new friends in a way that may end up saving them. When she leaves the hospital, she meets new obstacles: finding the courage to live despite her depression and facing her father's misunderstanding. 

THE MEMORY OF LIGHT is a heartfelt, realistic novel that gives the reader a close look at what it's really like to live with a mental disorder. Recovery is not a pleasant process, and this book captures it perfectly. The characters experience moments of introspection that will make you reflect upon yourself as well, and it's likely you'll learn something new. The variety of personalities and situations provided in the hospital setting mimics the wide range of struggles people encounter in real life. This novel enlightens readers on the very real battle of living with a mental disorder. THE MEMORY OF LIGHT was an emotional, enjoyable read that everyone can take something valuable away from.

Reviewed by Maggie L., Teen Board member. on January 26, 2016

The Memory of Light
by Francisco X. Stork

  • Publication Date: August 29, 2017
  • Genres: Family, Mental Health, Youth Fiction
  • Paperback: 352 pages
  • Publisher: Arthur A. Levine Books
  • ISBN-10: 0545474337
  • ISBN-13: 9780545474337