Title: A Wolf at the Table
Author: Augusten Burroughs
First published April 29, 2008
242 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780312342029 (ISBN10: 0312342020)
Rating: 3.74
Overview
In “A Wolf at the Table,” Augusten Burroughs recounts his haunting childhood memories of his father, a distant and mysterious figure who seemed to have a dark secret. As Augusten grows older, his father’s behavior becomes increasingly disturbing and abusive, leading to a series of shocking betrayals.
This memoir delves into the complex and terrifying relationship between father and son, with raw honesty and a deep understanding of the human psyche. Despite the emotional trauma, Augusten finds hope and redemption in the end, reminding us all of the power of resilience in the face of adversity.
“A Wolf at the Table” is a gripping and unforgettable memoir that will leave you moved and inspired.
About the Author
Augusten Burroughs, born Christopher Robison, is the son of poet and writer Margaret Robison and the younger brother of John Elder Robison. He did not receive any formal education beyond elementary school, but he became a successful advertising copywriter for over seventeen years.
Unfortunately, Burroughs also struggled with alcoholism and nearly drank himself to death in 1999. However, he began writing a novel as a way to cope with his compulsion, which resulted in his first book being written in just seven days.
Augusten Burroughs stopped drinking and his debut novel, Sellevision, was published one year later. It remains his only published novel and is currently being developed into a feature film.
In 2001, Burroughs released his second book, a memoir called Running with Scissors, which became a publishing phenomenon and ignited a memoir fever in America and abroad. The memoir received widespread critical acclaim and remained on the New York Times bestseller list for over four years, with eight months in the #1 position.
The book was adapted into a film starring Annette Benning, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jill Clayburgh, and Alec Baldwin, which was released in 2005. Since then, Burroughs has published four additional bestselling autobiographical volumes: Dry, Possible Side Effects, Magical Thinking, and A Wolf at the Table, which was released in early 2008.
Burroughs has become a popular figure, with book readings that attract large crowds all over the world. He has also spoken at prestigious literary festivals and colleges and universities on various topics, including alcoholism, sexual abuse, and the art of authoring one’s own life.
Twice honored by Entertainment Weekly as one of 25 funniest people in America, Burroughs shocked fans and the media alike with A Wolf at the Table. The book generated controversy and received both negative and positive reviews, but it remains his bestselling hardcover to date.
Despite criticism from some who question the veracity of his books, Burroughs remains philosophical. He believes that his readers recognize the truth in his stories and that the very details that the media view with suspicion are the same ones that prove to his readers that he was there.
Editoral Review
Augusten Burroughs’ memoir, A Wolf at the Table, is a haunting and raw portrayal of his tumultuous relationship with his father. First published in 2008, the book delves into the genre of memoirs and is written in Burroughs’ trademark darkly humorous style.
The themes of trauma and abuse are central to the book, making it a difficult but necessary read for those interested in mental health and family dynamics.
The book begins with Burroughs’ childhood memories of his father, who he describes as a wolf-like figure, terrorizing his family with unpredictable outbursts of violence. As the book progresses, Burroughs reflects on his own struggles with mental health, and how his father’s abusive behavior affected his life.
The scenes of abuse are vividly described, and the book is not for the faint of heart. However, Burroughs’ writing style is compelling and draws the reader into his world.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is its historical and cultural significance. Burroughs’ story takes place in the 1970s, a time when mental health was not as well-understood or treated as it is today.
He highlights the impact of his father’s untreated mental illness on his family and on his own mental health, adding an important perspective to the conversation around mental health.
Burroughs’ writing is both poetic and precise, and his character development is exceptional. He portrays his father as both a monster and a human being, adding depth to the narrative.
The pacing of the book is slow at times, but this allows the reader to fully immerse themselves in the story. The themes of trauma and family dynamics are explored in a nuanced and gut-wrenching way.
Comparing A Wolf at the Table to Burroughs’ other works, it is clear that he has a unique voice and style. However, the book shares similarities with other memoirs of abuse and trauma, such as The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls and Educated by Tara Westover.
These books all explore the impact of family dysfunction on mental health and the struggle to overcome trauma.
While A Wolf at the Table is a powerful and important book, it does have some limitations. The book is heavily focused on Burroughs’ relationship with his father, which means that other aspects of his life are not explored in depth.
Additionally, the book may be triggering for those who have experienced abuse or trauma, and readers should approach it with caution.
Overall, A Wolf at the Table is a gut-wrenching and beautifully written memoir that sheds light on the impact of mental illness on families. It is a necessary read for those interested in mental health and family dynamics, but it may not be suitable for everyone.
I would give it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, as it is a well-crafted book that delves into important themes, but its limitations should also be acknowledged.
