Title: The Middle Place
Author: Kelly Corrigan
First published June 25, 2005
272 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781401303365 (ISBN10: 1401303366)
Rating: 3.88
Overview
In her memoir, Kelly Corrigan celebrates the enduring power of family love. As the only daughter of George Corrigan, she basks in the glow of his larger-than-life personality and unwavering support.
When Kelly is diagnosed with breast cancer, it is her father’s indomitable spirit that gives her hope and strength. But when George himself falls ill, Kelly’s world is turned upside down.
Faced with the prospect of losing the man who has always been her rock, Kelly must find the courage to carry on. With heartrending honesty and humor, she tells the story of her journey through illness, loss, and ultimately, survival.
Through it all, one thing remains clear: the bond between a father and daughter is unbreakable.
About the Author
Meet Kelly Corrigan, a talented author whose work has graced the pages of esteemed publications such as O Magazine, Glamour, and Good Housekeeping. As a columnist for the Bay Area News Group, she tackles relatable topics such as the importance of a sincere apology, the ripple effect of weight gain, and the impact of extramarital affairs and eco-conscious living.
With several New York Times bestsellers under her belt, Corrigan is a force to be reckoned with in the literary world.
Editoral Review
Kelly Corrigan’s The Middle Place is a heartfelt memoir that explores the complexities of family relationships, illness, and growing up. Corrigan, an accomplished author and journalist, has written extensively on these topics, and in this book, she brings her unique voice and perspective to bear on her own life.
The Middle Place centers around Corrigan’s battle with breast cancer, which coincides with her father’s own cancer diagnosis. As Corrigan navigates the challenges of cancer treatment and surgery, she also grapples with the demands of motherhood and the strain on her marriage.
Through it all, Corrigan reflects on her relationship with her father, which has always been close but becomes even more so as they face their illnesses together. Corrigan’s writing is gripping and emotional, with a lyrical style that draws the reader in.
She writes with honesty and vulnerability about her struggles, and readers will find themselves rooting for her every step of the way. The book is also peppered with witty observations and humor, which provide much-needed moments of levity amidst the heavy subject matter.
One of the strengths of The Middle Place is its examination of family dynamics. Corrigan’s relationship with her father is beautifully rendered, and readers will find themselves moved by the depth of their connection.
But the book also delves into the tensions and complexities that arise within families, particularly when faced with illness. Corrigan writes with sensitivity and nuance, exploring how illness can bring families closer together but also exacerbate existing tensions and conflicts.
The book is not without its flaws. At times, the narrative can feel disjointed, with jumps in time and place that leave the reader disoriented.
And while Corrigan’s reflections on her own experiences are compelling, some readers may find themselves wanting more context and analysis around the broader societal and cultural issues that the book touches on. Despite these limitations, The Middle Place is a powerful and moving memoir that will resonate with anyone who has grappled with illness, parenthood, or the complexities of family relationships.
Corrigan’s writing is honest and heartfelt, and readers will find themselves swept up in her journey. Recommended for anyone looking for a compelling and emotional read.
Rating: 4/5
