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Rewriting Illness
By turns somber and funny but above all provocative, Elizabeth Benedict’s Rewriting Illness: A View of My Own is a most unconventional memoir. With wisdom, self-effacing wit, and the story-telling skills of a seasoned novelist, she brings to life her cancer diagnosis and committed hypochondria. As she discovers multiplying lumps in her armpit, she describes her initial terror, interspersed with moments of self-mocking levity as she indulges in “natural remedies,” among them chanting Tibetan mantras, drinking shots of wheat grass, and finding medicinal properties in chocolate babka. She tracks the progression of her illness from muddled diagnosis to debilitating treatment as she gathers sustenance from her family and an assortment of urbane, ironic friends, including her fearless “cancer guru.” In brief, explosive chapters with startling titles – “Was it the Krazy Glue?” and “Not Everything Scares the Shit out of Me” – Benedict investigates existential questions: Is there a cancer personality? Can trauma be passed on generationally? Can cancer be stripped of its warlike metaphors? How do doctors’ own fears influence their comments to patients? Is there a gendered response to illness? Why isn’t illness one of literature’s great subjects? And delving into her own history, she wonders if having had children would have changed her life as a writer and hypochondriac. Post diagnosis, Benedict asks, “Which fear is worse: the fear of knowing or the reality of knowing? (164)” Throughout, Benedict’s humor, wisdom, and warmth jacket her fears, which are personal, political, and ultimately global, when the world is pitched into a pandemic. Amid weighty concerns and her all-consuming obsession with illness, her story is filled with suspense, secrets, and even the unexpected solace of silence.
- GenresNonfictionMemoir
216 pages, Paperback
Published May 23, 2023
7 people are currently reading
1768 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Benedict
15 books99 followersMe: Lots of books, zillions of essays and articles. This season: REWRITING ILLNESS: A VIEW OF MY OWN. A very serious and kinda funny take on how my lifelong fear of illness collided with actual illness in 2017. I survived. I had time to think about doctor-speak, patient-speak, death, health insurance, CANCER, my husband, my friends, did I mention CANCER? I love this blurb: "As though Nora Ephron had written a book called 'I Feel Bad About My Tumor.'" --Thomas Beller.
I'm the author of the novels ALMOST and SLOW DANCING, and of THE JOY OF WRITING SEX: A GUIDE FOR FICTION WRITERS, and editor of three anthologies: ME, MY HAIR AND I: 27 WOMEN UNTANGLE AN OBSESSION, the NYTIMES bestseller, WHAT MY MOTHER GAVE ME: 31 WOMEN ON THE GIFTS THAT MATTERED MOST and MENTORS, MUSES & MONSTERS: 30 WRITERS ON THE PEOPLE WHO CHANGED THEIR LIVES.
I coach kids applying to college and grad school with their application essays at www.DontSweatTheEssay.com. Maureen Corrigan, on "Fresh Air" raved about ALMOST days after 9/11, and Anne Tyler reviewed THE BEGINNER'S BOOK OF DREAMS, saying, "The marvel is that such a sad book could be such a joy to read."
I'm the author of the novels ALMOST and SLOW DANCING, and of THE JOY OF WRITING SEX: A GUIDE FOR FICTION WRITERS, and editor of three anthologies: ME, MY HAIR AND I: 27 WOMEN UNTANGLE AN OBSESSION, the NYTIMES bestseller, WHAT MY MOTHER GAVE ME: 31 WOMEN ON THE GIFTS THAT MATTERED MOST and MENTORS, MUSES & MONSTERS: 30 WRITERS ON THE PEOPLE WHO CHANGED THEIR LIVES.
I coach kids applying to college and grad school with their application essays at www.DontSweatTheEssay.com. Maureen Corrigan, on "Fresh Air" raved about ALMOST days after 9/11, and Anne Tyler reviewed THE BEGINNER'S BOOK OF DREAMS, saying, "The marvel is that such a sad book could be such a joy to read."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 19, 2023
An engaging, funny, gripping, and moving account of the surreal experience of struggling to get a diagnosis, actually getting diagnosed with cancer, the difficulty of treatment, and the slow but joyous dawning of recovery.
The structure of very short chapters—some bite-sized—helps to catalog the harrowing experience without being overwhelming, and also allows for deftly placed and much appreciated bits of humor.
Full disclosure: the author is my aunt, but based solely on how well she describes my uncle I can tell you this book is spot on.
The structure of very short chapters—some bite-sized—helps to catalog the harrowing experience without being overwhelming, and also allows for deftly placed and much appreciated bits of humor.
Full disclosure: the author is my aunt, but based solely on how well she describes my uncle I can tell you this book is spot on.
June 5, 2023
I read this all in one day! I appreciated the author's ability to find humor in her situation, and also her willingness to talk about her fear. It was a very human story, and I loved that she was willing to be vulnerable and share the moments that were imperfect and hard.
A couple of quotes I will remember:
Cancer "...was like the coast of Maine, a landscape so full of intricacies and hidden coves, crevices, and dangers, that it can never be accurately measured or fully known."
(On COVID after going into remission)
"That the dread was familiar didn't make going through it any easier...Still, I had to remind myself that, according to the scariest, most reliable, and penetrating scan--taken by a machine that sees into my cells--I was fine. In no uncertain terms. No opinions. No euphemisms. No cheery hopes from doctors who don't like to give us bad news. I. Was. Fine. The rest of the world was not."
"Can it be that this illness was a dress rehearsal for whatever crisis comes next...? Will I...resist the cowering that came so naturally to me? If at all possible, I will let you know."
"The trick is to find the right balance between feeling too much fear and not enough to protect yourself from danger."
A couple of quotes I will remember:
Cancer "...was like the coast of Maine, a landscape so full of intricacies and hidden coves, crevices, and dangers, that it can never be accurately measured or fully known."
(On COVID after going into remission)
"That the dread was familiar didn't make going through it any easier...Still, I had to remind myself that, according to the scariest, most reliable, and penetrating scan--taken by a machine that sees into my cells--I was fine. In no uncertain terms. No opinions. No euphemisms. No cheery hopes from doctors who don't like to give us bad news. I. Was. Fine. The rest of the world was not."
"Can it be that this illness was a dress rehearsal for whatever crisis comes next...? Will I...resist the cowering that came so naturally to me? If at all possible, I will let you know."
"The trick is to find the right balance between feeling too much fear and not enough to protect yourself from danger."
October 15, 2023
This was a personal look at a cancer diagnosis. She writes with extraordinary honesty about her fears and triumphs. Then Covid happens. Which makes the whole world anxiety-ridden. A very thoughtful memoir about friendship and fears.
June 25, 2023
This book is an absolute page turner. Elizabeth Benedict's memoir is beautiful, riveting, informative, relatable, and entertaining. She is a grand storyteller whose choice to confide in us through short chapters with great titles conveys her understanding that for us to embrace the book requires her total honesty, open curiosity , and unparalleled wit. This is a cancer story, but Elizabeth Benedict is a funny person, and so, her story is funny. It is also serious, describing difficult treatments, scary questions that can go unanswered for too long, and an exploration of the existential themes that play through our minds when something like this happens. Benedict has been speaking at bookshops and on podcasts since the book came out, and I've already used two of her practical pieces of advice when approaching my own healthcare. I highly recommend this book to all readers. You don't need to have cancer to find its wit and wisdom extremely relatable, and if you do have or have had cancer, Benedict's story may answer some of your own questions and it will very likely make you feel less alone.
June 28, 2023
A moment-by-moment walk through the mental, emotional, logistical, physical, and political experience (please don't say "journey") of cancer with an incisive guide who also happens to be a patient. Benedict's voice is unfailingly honest, very funny, and ultimately reassuring. I would recommend this book to anyone facing a cancer diagnosis: it's a friend to hold your hand and provide perspective.
October 30, 2023
Elizabeth uses her talent as a writer (she has published multiple novels) to share her memoir which allows the reader to follow along on her 3 year cancer journey.
I enjoyed the fact that this read is succinct yet humorous at times and thought provoking the entire way.
Elizabeth is a self proclaimed hypochondriac, but during this journey she procrastinates with her health at times and is not assertive at other times when it comes to interactions with doctors.
She also shares her choices on who she tells about her diagnosis and treatment and why she makes those choices.
I read this book in one sitting. It made me ponder the range in which people approach sickness and gave me many “what if that were me” moments.
I enjoyed the fact that this read is succinct yet humorous at times and thought provoking the entire way.
Elizabeth is a self proclaimed hypochondriac, but during this journey she procrastinates with her health at times and is not assertive at other times when it comes to interactions with doctors.
She also shares her choices on who she tells about her diagnosis and treatment and why she makes those choices.
I read this book in one sitting. It made me ponder the range in which people approach sickness and gave me many “what if that were me” moments.
June 9, 2023
A really important book that shows the value of asking questions ( which the author didn’t do). She states she is a hypochondriac who didn’t advocate for herself and it showed up in many ways. The doctors let her decide when to do tests which, if done, would have eased her into realizing she had cancer. The good news, she was lucky waiting didn’t really hurt her. But, for others it could be catastrophic. I am the opposite type of person and have advocated for myself for my whole life as well as for many others. As I read the book, I was actually shocked she took the most passive role she could. Glad it worked out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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June 2, 2024“𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵.”
Benedict shares a lot of thoughts, reflections, observations, and insights I agree with and brought verbiage to those which I’ve had but have never said aloud. Though we have different stories and different types (at different ages), there is a profoundly sad sense of sympathy and understanding. The thoughts of paranoia and dark rabbit holes that wind up freaking you out and leads to thinking every pain or bump or symptom means the cancer had spread or returned. How it overtakes your mind and perspective, brewing up questions and concerns you never thought would ever arise. How it literally impacts every aspect of your life. To those who haven’t experienced a cancer diagnosis it may seem absurd, dramatic, but it’s wild how sickeningly true this happens without effort; that the cancer may mean a nightmare for how the body functions and the treatments it will have to endure but the knowledge of a diagnosis is a literal mental nightmare that never shuts its screaming mouth.
Benedict walks us through all of this as she discovers her lumps, endures the hassle of healthcare as she has scans and tests and biopsies and the waiting periods inbetween, and the aftermath. There were several things she spoke of that I had a “omg I totally agree/that’s so true/that was my experience too” moment, such as the observation of the normalcy and complacency that providers [can] display when sharing the process to diagnosis that which will completely turn our lives upside down and inside out, saying “𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘢𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘸𝘴, 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘵𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘯𝘰 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵.” (Not all but I definitely had this; my specialist who informed me was so frank and curt.) Or whenever she brought up the amount of times the possible side effects of treatments and medications severely outweigh what you are experiencing that causes the need for such things. Or even when you’re hospitalized and your roommate gets discharged so you naively think “yay, some peace and quiet” only to be woken during the worst possible early hours of the morning by a new admission (whoever says they’ve gotten good sleep in the hospital is a liar).
“𝘐𝘵 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘶𝘢𝘨𝘦. … 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘺𝘯𝘰𝘯𝘺𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩. … 𝘐𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘣𝘰𝘢𝘳𝘥-𝘴𝘪𝘻𝘦𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘷𝘶𝘭𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦.”
One area I found so interesting is when she talks about fear and how odd they can be; how one woman she knows is fearful of her daughter’s safety when she’s home 10 minutes late but is not afraid of flying, and another had visited Serevajo several times during the Bosnian war but yet was afraid to sleep alone when she had cancer. Or even herself not being afraid to public speak but is of talking privately with doctors. And how men and women are fearful of different things and display this differently.
Most of what Benedict talks about will be triggering for people, specifically those who have had a cancer diagnosis, but even to those who have witnessed and walked alongside a loved one who has as talks about her own journey but she also makes comments about others she’s known who have too. Personally, I actually found some of it comforting. It’s the “I hate you went through this too but I’m glad I’m not the only one” sentiment and for anyone who has or is going through cancer, listening to Benedict share her story in her voice as she reads her own words, it might just be a paradoxical comfort for you too.
Benedict shares a lot of thoughts, reflections, observations, and insights I agree with and brought verbiage to those which I’ve had but have never said aloud. Though we have different stories and different types (at different ages), there is a profoundly sad sense of sympathy and understanding. The thoughts of paranoia and dark rabbit holes that wind up freaking you out and leads to thinking every pain or bump or symptom means the cancer had spread or returned. How it overtakes your mind and perspective, brewing up questions and concerns you never thought would ever arise. How it literally impacts every aspect of your life. To those who haven’t experienced a cancer diagnosis it may seem absurd, dramatic, but it’s wild how sickeningly true this happens without effort; that the cancer may mean a nightmare for how the body functions and the treatments it will have to endure but the knowledge of a diagnosis is a literal mental nightmare that never shuts its screaming mouth.
Benedict walks us through all of this as she discovers her lumps, endures the hassle of healthcare as she has scans and tests and biopsies and the waiting periods inbetween, and the aftermath. There were several things she spoke of that I had a “omg I totally agree/that’s so true/that was my experience too” moment, such as the observation of the normalcy and complacency that providers [can] display when sharing the process to diagnosis that which will completely turn our lives upside down and inside out, saying “𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘢𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘸𝘴, 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘵𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘯𝘰 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵.” (Not all but I definitely had this; my specialist who informed me was so frank and curt.) Or whenever she brought up the amount of times the possible side effects of treatments and medications severely outweigh what you are experiencing that causes the need for such things. Or even when you’re hospitalized and your roommate gets discharged so you naively think “yay, some peace and quiet” only to be woken during the worst possible early hours of the morning by a new admission (whoever says they’ve gotten good sleep in the hospital is a liar).
“𝘐𝘵 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘶𝘢𝘨𝘦. … 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘺𝘯𝘰𝘯𝘺𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩. … 𝘐𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘣𝘰𝘢𝘳𝘥-𝘴𝘪𝘻𝘦𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘷𝘶𝘭𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦.”
One area I found so interesting is when she talks about fear and how odd they can be; how one woman she knows is fearful of her daughter’s safety when she’s home 10 minutes late but is not afraid of flying, and another had visited Serevajo several times during the Bosnian war but yet was afraid to sleep alone when she had cancer. Or even herself not being afraid to public speak but is of talking privately with doctors. And how men and women are fearful of different things and display this differently.
Most of what Benedict talks about will be triggering for people, specifically those who have had a cancer diagnosis, but even to those who have witnessed and walked alongside a loved one who has as talks about her own journey but she also makes comments about others she’s known who have too. Personally, I actually found some of it comforting. It’s the “I hate you went through this too but I’m glad I’m not the only one” sentiment and for anyone who has or is going through cancer, listening to Benedict share her story in her voice as she reads her own words, it might just be a paradoxical comfort for you too.
April 30, 2024
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to the ARC copy this audiobook in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
This book is about author’s lifelong struggle with paralyzing anxiety and fears of a potential catastrophic event like death or terminal illness and her experience of healing and survival from it.
Elizabeth Benedict is a woman whose life seems happy and fulfilling. She’s got a loving family and an accomplished career as a fiction writer and a college admissions coach. She lives in a place where she can enjoy life’s beautiful offerings of culture, art and amazing culinary experiences.
Then a day comes when her fear of death via cancer becomes reality and no matter how prepared she thought she was, it felt paralyzing and isolating. The road to healing is hard, physically and emotionally, but author gets to survive it.
At the end of this road she gets to rewrite the story of her illness and share her vulnerability and resilience with the reader.
The book is narrated by the author and makes listening to her story relatable. Her mastery of written word shows in the beautiful language she uses and the writing style.
Listening to “Rewriting Illness: A Story of My Own” was an enjoyable experience for me and felt relatable.
This book is about author’s lifelong struggle with paralyzing anxiety and fears of a potential catastrophic event like death or terminal illness and her experience of healing and survival from it.
Elizabeth Benedict is a woman whose life seems happy and fulfilling. She’s got a loving family and an accomplished career as a fiction writer and a college admissions coach. She lives in a place where she can enjoy life’s beautiful offerings of culture, art and amazing culinary experiences.
Then a day comes when her fear of death via cancer becomes reality and no matter how prepared she thought she was, it felt paralyzing and isolating. The road to healing is hard, physically and emotionally, but author gets to survive it.
At the end of this road she gets to rewrite the story of her illness and share her vulnerability and resilience with the reader.
The book is narrated by the author and makes listening to her story relatable. Her mastery of written word shows in the beautiful language she uses and the writing style.
Listening to “Rewriting Illness: A Story of My Own” was an enjoyable experience for me and felt relatable.
June 23, 2024
This audiobook was nice.
I liked how we accompanied the author on her journey, from the very beginning to the diagnosis, telling the family and the long way after this.
I think this is a good way to bring awareness about this topic since there are still many people that just ignore it or think „yeah whatever, it won’t be cancer“.
It was easy to follow the author/narrator in this audiobook, though what happened to me was that some of the chapters/paragraphs repeated themselves. I don’t know if this is in the book or if it was a technical issue.
I recommend reading/listening to this book if you want to have some insights in how life is with this diagnosis.
I liked how we accompanied the author on her journey, from the very beginning to the diagnosis, telling the family and the long way after this.
I think this is a good way to bring awareness about this topic since there are still many people that just ignore it or think „yeah whatever, it won’t be cancer“.
It was easy to follow the author/narrator in this audiobook, though what happened to me was that some of the chapters/paragraphs repeated themselves. I don’t know if this is in the book or if it was a technical issue.
I recommend reading/listening to this book if you want to have some insights in how life is with this diagnosis.
October 22, 2023
I don’t usually think of non fiction as page turning but I devoured this book. I stayed up until 2am because I knew I wouldn’t be able to sleep until I finished reading Elizabeth’s compelling story. I wouldn’t have believed that a memoir dealing with such a serious topic could be entertaining but Elizabeth’s quick wit was evident from the beginning. Her story was also emotional, enlightening and suspenseful and the combination made for a powerful read. I highly recommend this book. There is something for everyone in this unique memoir.
March 10, 2024
Elizabeth takes us on her journey through diagnosis, treatment and recovery from breast cancer. I appreciate her vulnerability, and her ability to find humor during such a difficult time.
“Cancer is swimming in the ocean when the ocean floor drops away and the rip tide has you.”
“Cancer is swimming in the ocean when the ocean floor drops away and the rip tide has you.”
June 5, 2024
I thought this was a real, raw, and witty life story and retelling of Elizabeth's medical journey.
Thank you NetGalley, Elizabeth Benedict and Post Hypnotic Press for an audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley, Elizabeth Benedict and Post Hypnotic Press for an audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 5, 2024
Review of “Rewriting Illness: A Story of My Own” by Elizabeth Benedict
Disclaimer: Please note that I received an ARC audiobook copy of this book from NetGalley, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Rewriting Illness: A Story of My Own” by Elizabeth Benedict is a touching memoir that takes listeners on a personal journey through illness, fear, and the complexities of the healthcare system. With warmth and honesty, Benedict shares her own experience with cancer, offering relatable anecdotes and heartfelt reflections along the way.
Narrated by the author herself, the audiobook is filled with moments of humor, vulnerability, and resilience. Benedict’s storytelling is engaging and down-to-earth, making it easy for listeners to connect with her experiences. Through her story, she shines a light on the universal fears and frustrations that come with navigating healthcare, particularly as a woman facing a serious diagnosis.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the memoir is Benedict’s exploration of broader issues surrounding women’s health and healthcare disparities. She tackles these topics with courage and candor, highlighting the need for greater understanding and support within the medical community. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for oneself and seeking solidarity during challenging times.
“Rewriting Illness: A Story of My Own” is a heartfelt and thought-provoking audiobook that offers insight, inspiration, and hope. Whether you’re facing your own health struggles or simply looking for a relatable story of resilience, Benedict’s memoir will leave a lasting impression.
Disclaimer: Please note that I received an ARC audiobook copy of this book from NetGalley, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Rewriting Illness: A Story of My Own” by Elizabeth Benedict is a touching memoir that takes listeners on a personal journey through illness, fear, and the complexities of the healthcare system. With warmth and honesty, Benedict shares her own experience with cancer, offering relatable anecdotes and heartfelt reflections along the way.
Narrated by the author herself, the audiobook is filled with moments of humor, vulnerability, and resilience. Benedict’s storytelling is engaging and down-to-earth, making it easy for listeners to connect with her experiences. Through her story, she shines a light on the universal fears and frustrations that come with navigating healthcare, particularly as a woman facing a serious diagnosis.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the memoir is Benedict’s exploration of broader issues surrounding women’s health and healthcare disparities. She tackles these topics with courage and candor, highlighting the need for greater understanding and support within the medical community. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for oneself and seeking solidarity during challenging times.
“Rewriting Illness: A Story of My Own” is a heartfelt and thought-provoking audiobook that offers insight, inspiration, and hope. Whether you’re facing your own health struggles or simply looking for a relatable story of resilience, Benedict’s memoir will leave a lasting impression.
March 15, 2024
I enjoyed listening to this surprisingly light-hearted and humorous memoir narrated by the author, Elizabeth Benedict. It was nice to hear her story of being diagnosed with, treated for, and surviving cancer in her own voice. The focus here is more on the author’s fears, emotions, and personal experience of navigating the healthcare system than on the cancer itself. I think my favorite parts of the story related to what she has learned about communicating with doctors and why doctors might say things a certain way. She also waxes philosophical about topics such as the violent metaphors we use regarding illness.
Although the author has considerable privilege, I found her story relatable. Despite her education, social connections, and financial resources, she still experiences doctors acting as though her anxiety is more of an issue than her lump, has difficulty getting diagnosed in a timely fashion, and has concerns about being able to afford treatment.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in memoirs related to health problems or is curious about one woman’s cancer journey. The audiobook production is good, and the author’s narration is easy to understand and relate to.
I received a free review copy of the audiobook through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
Although the author has considerable privilege, I found her story relatable. Despite her education, social connections, and financial resources, she still experiences doctors acting as though her anxiety is more of an issue than her lump, has difficulty getting diagnosed in a timely fashion, and has concerns about being able to afford treatment.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in memoirs related to health problems or is curious about one woman’s cancer journey. The audiobook production is good, and the author’s narration is easy to understand and relate to.
I received a free review copy of the audiobook through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
November 14, 2024
3.75 stars
Rewriting Illness is a profoundly moving and heartfelt memoir chronicling Elizabeth Benedict’s personal journey with Illness. Cancer is a challenging topic to read, as it touches so many lives, but Benedict approaches it with remarkable honesty and courage. Through her audiobook, she takes listeners from the first suspicion to diagnosis and all the emotional and physical struggles in between.
One of the aspects that resonated with me most was Benedict’s exploration of the gaslighting women often experience in the medical field. Her honest recounting of the frustration and pain of having her concerns dismissed by medical professionals was both upsetting and eye-opening. By sharing these experiences, Benedict sheds light on the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare—a critical message that will inspire and empower many listeners.
Benedict’s narration adds another layer of authenticity and intimacy to her story. Her voice is engaging, making connecting with her experiences and emotions easy. I appreciated her vulnerability and the strength it must have taken to share such a personal journey. While this memoir may not be for everyone, it is a poignant, brave, and important story that deserves to be heard.
Thank you to NetGalley and Post Hypnotic Press for providing me with an audio-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Rewriting Illness is a profoundly moving and heartfelt memoir chronicling Elizabeth Benedict’s personal journey with Illness. Cancer is a challenging topic to read, as it touches so many lives, but Benedict approaches it with remarkable honesty and courage. Through her audiobook, she takes listeners from the first suspicion to diagnosis and all the emotional and physical struggles in between.
One of the aspects that resonated with me most was Benedict’s exploration of the gaslighting women often experience in the medical field. Her honest recounting of the frustration and pain of having her concerns dismissed by medical professionals was both upsetting and eye-opening. By sharing these experiences, Benedict sheds light on the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare—a critical message that will inspire and empower many listeners.
Benedict’s narration adds another layer of authenticity and intimacy to her story. Her voice is engaging, making connecting with her experiences and emotions easy. I appreciated her vulnerability and the strength it must have taken to share such a personal journey. While this memoir may not be for everyone, it is a poignant, brave, and important story that deserves to be heard.
Thank you to NetGalley and Post Hypnotic Press for providing me with an audio-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 10, 2024
a very honest and personal account of elizabeth benedict's experience of being diagnosed with and treated for cancer, as well as the aftermath of the illness. i listened to the audiobook version of this memoir and though, at times, i thought the story might've come across even better if it had been read by a professional voice actor, i really appreciated being able to listen to it in elizabeth benedict's own voice, which added another layer of authenticity to an already incredibly authentic narrative.
i loved how openly the author speaks about her hypochondria as well as her experience with the medical system, particularly of not being taken seriously by doctors (especially as a woman). what made her criticism of the medical establishment even more convincing was the fact that she presented such a nuanced view on it: she does not only point out where doctors go wrong, but also tries to understand their motivations and what leads them to giving questionable advice or making risky decisions.
generally, elizabeth benedict maanges to tell her story in a very lighthearted way, without sugar-coating the terrifying reality of living with an illness like cancer. would definitely recommend!
i loved how openly the author speaks about her hypochondria as well as her experience with the medical system, particularly of not being taken seriously by doctors (especially as a woman). what made her criticism of the medical establishment even more convincing was the fact that she presented such a nuanced view on it: she does not only point out where doctors go wrong, but also tries to understand their motivations and what leads them to giving questionable advice or making risky decisions.
generally, elizabeth benedict maanges to tell her story in a very lighthearted way, without sugar-coating the terrifying reality of living with an illness like cancer. would definitely recommend!
July 29, 2024
First things first - I listened to the audiobook, and I think a lot of the issues of tone I experienced would not have been as pronounced in written form. The audio edition is read by the author, which often is an enhancement to a memoir...but this was truly a reading and not a narration, which makes it difficult to determine the intended tone of many passages. I bet that the author is a witty conversationalist, but that does not come across here in the flat reading.
The story itself is well written - all of the many reframings, indignities, changes to relationships, etc. that stem from a cancer diagnosis. But the reading makes it difficult to tell when the author is being sarcastic or facetious, which makes her come across as having been rather sheltered from the realities of human life for much of the book.
If you or someone you love has been through cancer or any other life-changing diagnosis, you will get something out of reading this. But read it, don't listen to the audio!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
The story itself is well written - all of the many reframings, indignities, changes to relationships, etc. that stem from a cancer diagnosis. But the reading makes it difficult to tell when the author is being sarcastic or facetious, which makes her come across as having been rather sheltered from the realities of human life for much of the book.
If you or someone you love has been through cancer or any other life-changing diagnosis, you will get something out of reading this. But read it, don't listen to the audio!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
April 15, 2024
Elizabeth Benedict shares her journey through the healthcare system as she is diagnosed and treated with cancer. She also expresses her struggles with hypochondria disorder that sends her into fits of unease when things seem amiss with her health.
This book was a pretty normal example of a regular person getting diagnosed and struggling to be seen in the healthcare system. The author writes about the same struggles people face daily with almost every illness when trying to get doctors to listen and dealing with the unknowns. It was hard to find understanding in the author’s frustrations when her diagnosis god delayed an extra week due to the doctor's schedule when she has just delayed it for three weeks due to hers. Overall a pretty summative story about becoming ill and all the worries with it. I don’t think the author “Re-wrote” anything about illness. But her journey gave voice to many’s struggles.
This book was a pretty normal example of a regular person getting diagnosed and struggling to be seen in the healthcare system. The author writes about the same struggles people face daily with almost every illness when trying to get doctors to listen and dealing with the unknowns. It was hard to find understanding in the author’s frustrations when her diagnosis god delayed an extra week due to the doctor's schedule when she has just delayed it for three weeks due to hers. Overall a pretty summative story about becoming ill and all the worries with it. I don’t think the author “Re-wrote” anything about illness. But her journey gave voice to many’s struggles.
April 12, 2024
I listened to this on audio from NetGalley and I'll admit the audio was pretty terrible. Despite that I still devoured this. I was visiting a family member with cancer a couple times a week for several weeks, and this was one of the only books I could bring myself to pick up during this time. Hearing the author explain their experience from diagnosis to treatment to remission through thoughtful prose became a source of comfort during my long subway rides home. I particularly appreciated her insight on how she navigated the health care system and how she would have done so differently. I enjoyed this book right up until the end, which had the ingredients to be really powerful, but went in a direction that didn't quite land for me.
May 13, 2023
Elizabeth Benedict’s REWRITING ILLNESS is unique. It is a true and compelling chronicle of Elizabeth’s struggle against an irrational fear of death that haunted her from her teenage years until she actually faced possible death from cancer in middle-age.
It is also a guide to the many steps and missteps created by the expensive “best care” medical attention Elizabeth received.
Many readers will turn to this book for hard-won wisdom and insight gained by Liz in grappling with her fears over many years.
Many other readers will feel comfort and support as they watch Liz battle a frequently difficult and unpleasant health care system.
It is also a guide to the many steps and missteps created by the expensive “best care” medical attention Elizabeth received.
Many readers will turn to this book for hard-won wisdom and insight gained by Liz in grappling with her fears over many years.
Many other readers will feel comfort and support as they watch Liz battle a frequently difficult and unpleasant health care system.
October 3, 2023
Rewriting Illness by Elizabeth Benedict is an interesting memoir.
The author talks about her journey to a cancer diagnosis and her rather passive attitude towards it.
As a cancer survivor, parts of this story were hard for me to read. I think everyone that is diagnosed with cancer handles it differently.
However, I think her doctors letting Elizabeth choose what tests and treatments to get and choose at her own leisure could of had deadly consequences.
I have always had to advocate for my own health care.
This memoir is a quick read with very short chapters. I appreciate the author's honesty and humor as she navigated through her diagnosis.
The author talks about her journey to a cancer diagnosis and her rather passive attitude towards it.
As a cancer survivor, parts of this story were hard for me to read. I think everyone that is diagnosed with cancer handles it differently.
However, I think her doctors letting Elizabeth choose what tests and treatments to get and choose at her own leisure could of had deadly consequences.
I have always had to advocate for my own health care.
This memoir is a quick read with very short chapters. I appreciate the author's honesty and humor as she navigated through her diagnosis.
May 27, 2023
Elizabeth Benedict is the kind of writer you want to read about EVERYTHING.
This unusual book about overcoming cancer is not the usual memoir. It's full of
Elizabeth Benedict wisdom and insight.
She is funny, honest, alive, unexpected, and humble.
She tells the story of discovery, of misdiagnosis and persistence, of treatment and recovery
in a human compelling way.
The reader hopes from the very beginning that she will recover quickly,
so she can write a book about it. And another book after that.
This unusual book about overcoming cancer is not the usual memoir. It's full of
Elizabeth Benedict wisdom and insight.
She is funny, honest, alive, unexpected, and humble.
She tells the story of discovery, of misdiagnosis and persistence, of treatment and recovery
in a human compelling way.
The reader hopes from the very beginning that she will recover quickly,
so she can write a book about it. And another book after that.
October 27, 2023
𝘌𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘺!
You think reading a memoir about someone with cancer you’ll need to prepare to a sad an emotional journey but this book was completely enlightening, entertaining and witty. An inspiring experience.
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.
𝗥𝗲𝘄𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗹𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 by @Elizabeth Benedict Writer released May 23, 2023.
𝗪𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗵 𝗗𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗼𝘀 𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗼𝘀?
I’ll go with Doritos!
𝗜 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆!
https://www.instagram.com/booksandcof...
You think reading a memoir about someone with cancer you’ll need to prepare to a sad an emotional journey but this book was completely enlightening, entertaining and witty. An inspiring experience.
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.
𝗥𝗲𝘄𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗹𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 by @Elizabeth Benedict Writer released May 23, 2023.
𝗪𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗵 𝗗𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗼𝘀 𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗼𝘀?
I’ll go with Doritos!
𝗜 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆!
https://www.instagram.com/booksandcof...
May 8, 2024
This story is about the author's journey with illness, specifically cancer, and the challenges of being diagnosed and undergoing treatment in the healthcare system. I appreciate the humor with which Benedict shares her story. When dealing with any long-term illness, finding humor in anything you possibly can is a coping mechanism. That said, I don't think there was anything novel about what the author had to share. As a memoir, this was interesting and highlights the issues within the United States healthcare system. *Advance copy provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
October 8, 2023
I wish that no one EVER had to get cancer! But I think many will benefit from Elizabeth Benedict sharing her journey in this brutally honest, funny, and relaxed way. It should be a wake-up call to our healthcare system and providers. And for those walking through this diagnosis - Elizabeth will feel like a trusted friend.
𝘈 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @elizabethbenedictwriter for a spot on tour and a gifted book.
𝘈 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @elizabethbenedictwriter for a spot on tour and a gifted book.
June 16, 2023
I was reluctant to read this book, because it's about illness. But I could not have been more surprised that it was so entertaining, witty, and wise. We're all touched by cancer one way or another. Rewriting Illness can be an excellent companion to a patient, a caregiver, or anyone wondering how to cope with a difficult situation.
October 16, 2023
This memoir is about the author's cancer diagnosis. She is open and honest about finding lumps and sharing her fears, her choices, her treatment options, and it's all done with a splash of humor. I was all into this as cancer runs in my family and is also one of my greatest fears. This was a heartfelt read. I'm glad she shared her journey with me.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley
January 27, 2024
"Yet, I don't want to be in the habit of collecting grievances because not everyone knows what it's like to dwell in the house of cancer. And if they do, their dwelling place is different from mine."
This is a gorgeous and relatable memoir that I found oddly comforting in my second year of cancer survivorship.
This is a gorgeous and relatable memoir that I found oddly comforting in my second year of cancer survivorship.
February 23, 2025
I really liked Benedict as narrator of her story. A mysterious lump in her arm pit unleashes worry and getting stuck in the medical diagnostic nightmare that many women face. Is it real or is it psychological? Seems to be what symptoms are classified as. Listen to this one.
Copy provided by the publisher and NetGalley
Copy provided by the publisher and NetGalley
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews