Publisher's Synopsis
For fans of Memorial Drive and When Breath Becomes Air comes a remarkable story of resilience.
Excerpt:
The handcuffed prisoner is led into the courtroom wearing shackles. He is fitter now. It looks as if he has spent many hours in the penitentiary gymnasium, beefing himself up. He's been confined to the Headingley Correctional Centre, just west of Winnipeg, Manitoba, for the past five years. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty, so I believe it has been easy in the minimum security facility compared to what he'll face if convicted.
The first time I saw him in the flesh was at the first court hearing we were allowed to attend. His expression is as hard today as it was then, and his eyes just as cold. Today should terrify him, but he shows no emotion at all.
People say I should forgive him. It does no good to hold on to hate. I've promised myself that throughout the trial I will search for something-anything-to give me a reason to let it go. But I already know it won't be simple. I've lived a challenging life, and he took away the one person who was always there for me.
He is the man who murdered my mother.
Anna Maynard was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when she was six months old, at a time when life expectancy for children with the disorder was only fourteen years. Throughout her tumultuous childhood, Anna fought for a life of normalcy and despite the death of her older sister France, who succumbed to the same disease, Anna beat the odds.
Now in her mid-50's Anna tells a remarkable story, one that will leave you wondering how one person can endure so much-from a double lung transplant to the senseless murder of her dear mother-Anna speaks of it all with courage, determination, and hope.
"It is the prologue which sets up such an amazing chain of events for us to follow through Anna's life. Add to this the stunning quality of the writing, bringing this memoir to life in the same way as the most imaginative works of fiction do with solid descriptions, well-chosen exposition moments and personal touches like photographs. I couldn't get enough of this fascinating family and the emotional journey that Anna takes her reads on. Overall, My Every Breath is a heartfelt and exceedingly well-written biographical work which comes very highly recommended for true life non-fiction fans."
- K.C. Finn, Readers' Favorite
