Audiobook: The Memory of Light by Francisco X. Stork
While in quarantine I read The Memory of Light by Francisco X. Stork. When it comes to books I am a big believer in drawing in the reader with your first chapter. I like to be hooked like a fish who have found the bait. That is what this book did to me. It hooked me on the first page and within the first chapter, I knew the story of Vicky Cruz was something I needed to read. The book starts off in the mind of 16-year-old protagonist Vicky Cruz as she goes through the motions of taking her life.
At first, I thought maybe this story was duel POV (point of view), and that Vicky was a secondary character, but thankfully no. Vicky survives her failed suicide attempt and wakes up at Lakeview, a hospital for people with mental disorders. I love Vicky’s raw emotions and thought process as she recovers from “the deed”, which is what she calls her suicide attempt.
After given the choice, she stays at Lakeview to receive treatment even though in her head she knows that she still wants to die and when given a chance, she will try again. Vicky is real in her thought process and speaks of some real truths that anyone can relate to. At Lakeview, Vicky befriends three other teens who all have different issues and gains a confidant in Dr. Desai during her treatment. Together they help push, pull and lift one other through their journeys.
This story brings to light the struggles of young people who have to deal with a mental illness while having to learn to understand that it is okay to not be okay. Vicky’s story is about self-acceptance, finding your tribe and forgiving those who don’t understand you. I highly recommend this read for all ages but do advise that there could be some triggers for anyone who has experienced trauma.
If you are interested in reading or listening to this book please click the links below or contact your local library.
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