Online for Authors Episode 11-13-25
Tiptoeing on Eggshells: Childhood in the Shadow of Silence with Author Liz Sjaastad
In a recent episode on "Online for Authors," I had the pleasure of engaging in a profound and enlightening conversation with Liz Sjaastad, the author of the compelling memoir "You're Too Young to Understand." This book takes readers on an emotional journey through Liz's life, exploring the complex dynamics of growing up with parents affected by unacknowledged mental illnesses. Our discussion delved into the themes of her book, offering listeners a glimpse into the realities she faced and the growth she experienced through this challenging yet transformative writing process.
Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionA Narrative That Resonates
Liz describes her memoir as a narrative-driven exploration of her childhood and adult life, marked by her experiences with her parents' mental health struggles. Instead of presenting her story as a series of essays or poetic reflections, Liz engages readers with a character and plot-driven narrative. The memoir intricately weaves together the themes of her upbringing, characterized by the silent struggles within her family, and her later experiences caring for her aging parents, where old challenges resurfaced.
The Journey to Writing
Embarking on this memoir was no small feat for Liz, who was not a creative writer before beginning the project over a decade ago. Inspired by a desire to understand her parents' choices and the family dynamics that played out during her upbringing, Liz began documenting her memories. This endeavor was not only a promise to herself to finish the book but also a means to process her family's story and navigate complex emotions. The result was a poignant reflection on her past, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and forgiveness.
Uncovering Memories
Throughout the writing process, Liz uncovered memories both painful and pivotal. Her sister played a crucial role, reading each chapter and filling in details from her perspective, which brought valuable context and depth to the narrative. Interestingly, Liz found that some of the most significant moments were illuminated by this collaborative recounting, though she didn't uncover entirely new memories.
Balancing Family and Memoir
One of the potential challenges of memoir writing is how family members might perceive the portrayal of shared experiences. Liz expressed gratitude for the support she received, noting that anyone named in the book was given the chance to read it beforehand. The memoir, while honest, was approached with sensitivity, avoiding sensationalism or blame.
A Story of Hope and Understanding
What stands out about "You're Too Young to Understand" is its hopeful narrative, demonstrating that while your roots are significant, they do not have to define your future. Liz's memoir resonates with readers, offering comfort and encouragement to those navigating their own complex family dynamics. It reveals that even amidst difficult circumstances, it's possible to find good times and meaningful relationships.
The Bigger Picture
Liz's memoir also touches on broader issues surrounding mental health, especially highlighting the challenges families face in seeking help for loved ones who may not recognize their need for assistance. The book serves as a call for greater understanding and resources to support families dealing with mental illness.
Looking Forward
As Liz reflects on her writing journey, she shares that the process has profoundly changed her, comparable to years of therapy. Her experience underscores the therapeutic power of writing, helping to release blame and achieve new perspectives. Inspired by this journey, Liz considers future writing projects, including a middle-grade fiction book addressing similar themes.
Engage with Us
If you're interested in delving deeper into Liz Sjaastad's insights and experiences, I encourage you to listen to our full discussion on "Online for Authors." Join the community at Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook, where you can share your thoughts and enter a drawing to win a digital copy of "You're Too Young to Understand."
For those wanting to connect with Liz directly, you can reach out through her website where she offers resources on schizophrenia and a space to contact her.
Let's continue exploring these important conversations and supporting one another in understanding and empathy. Thank you for being part of this journey.
Purchase You're Too Young to Understand on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4nRUpu9
Ebook: https://amzn.to/3IyyBo4
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
In a recent episode on "Online for Authors," I had the pleasure of engaging in a profound and enlightening conversation with Liz Sjaastad, the author of the compelling memoir "You're Too Young to Understand." This book takes readers on an emotional journey through Liz's life, exploring the complex dynamics of growing up with parents affected by unacknowledged mental illnesses. Our discussion delved into the themes of her book, offering listeners a glimpse into the realities she faced and the growth she experienced through this challenging yet transformative writing process.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionA Narrative That Resonates
Liz describes her memoir as a narrative-driven exploration of her childhood and adult life, marked by her experiences with her parents' mental health struggles. Instead of presenting her story as a series of essays or poetic reflections, Liz engages readers with a character and plot-driven narrative. The memoir intricately weaves together the themes of her upbringing, characterized by the silent struggles within her family, and her later experiences caring for her aging parents, where old challenges resurfaced.
The Journey to Writing
Embarking on this memoir was no small feat for Liz, who was not a creative writer before beginning the project over a decade ago. Inspired by a desire to understand her parents' choices and the family dynamics that played out during her upbringing, Liz began documenting her memories. This endeavor was not only a promise to herself to finish the book but also a means to process her family's story and navigate complex emotions. The result was a poignant reflection on her past, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and forgiveness.
Uncovering Memories
Throughout the writing process, Liz uncovered memories both painful and pivotal. Her sister played a crucial role, reading each chapter and filling in details from her perspective, which brought valuable context and depth to the narrative. Interestingly, Liz found that some of the most significant moments were illuminated by this collaborative recounting, though she didn't uncover entirely new memories.
Balancing Family and Memoir
One of the potential challenges of memoir writing is how family members might perceive the portrayal of shared experiences. Liz expressed gratitude for the support she received, noting that anyone named in the book was given the chance to read it beforehand. The memoir, while honest, was approached with sensitivity, avoiding sensationalism or blame.
A Story of Hope and Understanding
What stands out about "You're Too Young to Understand" is its hopeful narrative, demonstrating that while your roots are significant, they do not have to define your future. Liz's memoir resonates with readers, offering comfort and encouragement to those navigating their own complex family dynamics. It reveals that even amidst difficult circumstances, it's possible to find good times and meaningful relationships.
The Bigger Picture
Liz's memoir also touches on broader issues surrounding mental health, especially highlighting the challenges families face in seeking help for loved ones who may not recognize their need for assistance. The book serves as a call for greater understanding and resources to support families dealing with mental illness.
Looking Forward
As Liz reflects on her writing journey, she shares that the process has profoundly changed her, comparable to years of therapy. Her experience underscores the therapeutic power of writing, helping to release blame and achieve new perspectives. Inspired by this journey, Liz considers future writing projects, including a middle-grade fiction book addressing similar themes.
Engage with Us
If you're interested in delving deeper into Liz Sjaastad's insights and experiences, I encourage you to listen to our full discussion on "Online for Authors." Join the community at Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook, where you can share your thoughts and enter a drawing to win a digital copy of "You're Too Young to Understand."
For those wanting to connect with Liz directly, you can reach out through her website where she offers resources on schizophrenia and a space to contact her.
Let's continue exploring these important conversations and supporting one another in understanding and empathy. Thank you for being part of this journey.
Purchase You're Too Young to Understand on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4nRUpu9
Ebook: https://amzn.to/3IyyBo4
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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