Show Me Heaven

by Donna L. Taylor

"Show Me Heaven" is the moving and inspirational true story of Donna Taylor, a woman whose early life was marred by abandonment, poverty, and hardship. After her father's departure at the age of three, Donna's life spiralled into a cycle of homelessness and struggle, further complicated by the destructive actions of an abusive stepfather. Despite these challenges, Donna was determined to carve out a better future for herself. Just as she seemed to be turning a corner, fate dealt her another blow, leading to a severe psychotic breakdown and the diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Facing the stark reality of mental illness, Donna was on the brink of giving up. However, her story takes a hopeful turn as she chooses life over despair. This book is not just a tale of survival; it is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome the bleakest circumstances and find light after a lifetime of darkness. Donna's journey from the depths of mental and emotional despair to becoming a beacon of hope for others is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience within us all.

186 pages, Paperback

Published April 24, 2024

Reviews

[Pheadra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an honest account of the struggles experienced by the author with mental health, compounded by several stressful occurrences. These include the ending of a marriage, breakdown of a family, misdiagnosis of several conditions, cultural differences, and loss of loved ones. It touches on struggles with mental issues and the author's thoughts through the entire process. I read this through my online bookclub, Pigeonhole, and early on, I declared it to be well-written, which it is. The passages dealing with grief well particularly poignant.4 stars

[Christine Rennie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Show Me Heaven by Donna L Taylor is the author’s own story from her poverty stricken childhood to her mental health struggles as an adult. It is only when she is diagnosed with bipolar disorder that she then has to choose whether to live or die.
She then uses her own struggles to counsel others with mental health issues and carry on living a healthy live.
Recommended

[Gail Danks · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing book which must have been difficult to write. It was certainly difficult to read at times as I suffer with mental health issues myself.

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

A journey through life's challenges leading to mental health issues and in this particular case, bipolar depression.
I read this memoir on my online book club the Pigeonhole.

[Marlene Rössler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Donna L. Taylor’s autography is a deeply touching reminder of the fragility and resilience a person can hold within themselves. Hers is a story that I’m glad was written down because it is so full of twists and turns that I would hardly believe it happened as it did. More fantastical and dramatic than most fiction books I have read and yet 100% true. The intersection of a difficult family background, mental health struggles and dealing with abuse creates a narrative that is sure to stay with a reader for a long time after finishing ‘Show Me Heaven’.
Taylor sets the scene nicely in the beginning of her memoir and I enjoyed following the equally difficult trajectories of Donna and her three brothers, who all navigated the effects their traumatic childhood had on them in different ways. Following the high highs and incredibly low lows of Donna’s life as a young woman resonated with me, as someone who has known the despair of living with depression. When Donna finally gets diagnosed with Bipolar 1 Affective Disorder, it felt like a helpful conclusion to me, an explanation to her behavior. And as a reader, all I wanted to do was protect her from the next breakdown, force her to slow down and look after herself more. But I know the road to self-care is long and seems nearly impossible while putting out the fires of the loved ones around you who need you.
For me, a highlight while reading the autography was following Donna and Hassan, who represents the return of love and hope in Donna’s life. Their love story is full of human error and sad reality too, but it was a guiding light while reading. The meaning of family and a support system that branches out to your workplace and even mental health professionals feels so reassuring. Donna has support all around her, even in her darkest times. I wish this for every person who has to face circumstances as dire as hers. The redemption we can read about in ‘Show Me Heaven’ is significant. While reading, we follow Donna until she comes to the conclusion that her diagnosis and dedication to her wellbeing will always hold her back to some extent. But nonetheless we learn about the value of appreciating the things that are still possible and that make even the most troubled life worth living.
This has been an extremely moving read and I recommend it to anyone who wants to build more empathy and understanding for those who have been less fortunate in life. All the best to you, Donna, I hope the rest of your life will be much more gentle.

[Anna Sykes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much like life itself, Donna L Taylor’s Show Me Heaven undulates between hope and defeat, light and darkness, life and death. The memoir starts with the author’s early recollections of life by the coast with her mother, father, and three brothers. Yet, when the idyll of her early childhood is proved illusory, a young Taylor must battle the seemingly never-ending deceit and misfortune surrounding her.

And it’s a battle that lasts a lifetime, because, if there’s one salient fact this gripping memoir will remind you of, it’s that life can be incredibly hard. An uphill struggle, in fact; Taylor relays traumatic experiences of poverty, grief, and serious mental illness so harrowing that they might feel unimaginable and remote. Yet, because she writes with such emotive clarity, you’re taken right to 8 Blithe Walk, looking through the window she so generously leaves open. Taylor really takes you on a trip through her mind.

So, whilst there is much about this memoir to offer perspective, it fundamentally speaks to the perils of human suffering, which is universal. Taylor is brave to tackle such gargantuan themes, but very much rises to the challenge. This memoir will definitely stay with you long after you finish it.

[Anna Sykes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Much like life itself, Donna L Taylor’s Show Me Heaven undulates between hope and defeat, light and darkness, life and death. The memoir starts with the author’s early recollections of life by the coast with her mother, father, and three brothers. Yet, when the idyll of her early childhood is proved illusory, a young Taylor must battle the seemingly never-ending deceit and misfortune surrounding her.

And it’s a battle that lasts a lifetime, because, if there’s one salient fact this gripping memoir will remind you of, it’s that life can be incredibly hard. An uphill struggle, in fact; Taylor relays traumatic experiences of poverty, grief, and serious mental illness so harrowing that they might feel unimaginable and remote. Yet, because she writes with such emotive clarity, you’re taken right to 8 Blithe Walk, looking through the window she so generously leaves open. Taylor really takes you on a trip through her mind.

So, whilst there is much about this memoir to offer perspective, it fundamentally speaks to the perils of human suffering, which is universal. Taylor is brave to tackle such gargantuan themes, but very much rises to the challenge. This memoir will definitely stay with you long after you finish it.

[Lynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A devastatingly honest and heart wrenching memoir, Donna Taylor chronicles the idyllic start to her life in Skegness, through to being abandoned by her father, living with her mother and brothers in her grandmother’s tiny council house and ending up sleeping in the car. Then her mother’s relationship with alcoholic, violent Ray, which has a devastating impact on Donna and her brothers. Unable to concentrate at school she leaves with no qualifications, but gradually works her way up to a good career with the Prudential. Just as her life seems to be on an even keel, Donna suffers a severe psychotic breakdown, eventually leading to a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. The book finishes on an uplifting note as she finds a role in helping others who are suffering mental illness. I do admit to finding the timeline confusing at times, but it is a must read for those who have had similar experiences, or for those who want to seek a greater understanding of what it is like to have bipolar disorder and being sectioned. Above all it is a testament to Donna’s resilience and strength of spirit. I read Show Me Heaven with The Pigeonhole digital book club.

[Goldie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Show Me Heaven" is an incredibly raw and honest memoir that takes its readers deep into the realities of living with mental illness. Donna’s candid storytelling about her experiences, her breakdowns, and her fight to regain control of her life makes this book both moving and powerful.

While I truly appreciated the honesty and vulnerability Donna brings to the page, there were times when I felt she over-indulged in description. Some of the details, though perhaps meaningful, slowed the pace and felt like she was spoon feeding the reader. The vulnerability and intensity of her journey were powerful enough on their own and didn’t need this extra padding to resonate.

That said, the memoir is a must read for those wanting to be embroiled in the emotional turmoil of mental illness. Donna’s authenticity, emotional depth, and hopeful message left a lasting impression and are a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, even when faced with darkness.

[Kirsty Diggens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been a read that had me unable to put down .An extraordinary lady whose journey navigating a life full of challenges exuded raw honesty rarely seen but the tenacity and strength to delve into circumstances thrust upon her life and its journey to culminate in her wealth of determination was exhibited throughout .Her plight with her own mental health whilst caring for those around her deems this author a exceptional person indeed .congratulations on your unwavering pursuit of finding happiness and peace . This book brings hope to those who may be facing their own challenges within their lives .

[Raksha · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Show Me Heaven" by Donna Taylor is a beautifully written novel. The story is a poignant and emotional journey of love and loss making it easy to become invested in the story. The writing is descriptive and engaging, painting a vivid picture in the reader's mind. The book explores themes of grief, healing, and the power of love. The story is a heart-wrenching and uplifting exploration of the human experience.
Overall, "Show Me Heaven" is a stunning and memorable read.
I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good love story and is looking for a book that will touch their heart.

[Mags Schofield · Rating 3 out of 5]

This must have been a difficult book to write. It is honest, but I found the timeline and some of the details a bit confusing. Donna's story became a catalogue of errors of diagnosis, and breakdowns of relationships.
Thanks to Donna and PH for the opportunity to read Show Me Heaven.

[Joanna Wiatrowska · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing story. Thank you Donna

[A · Rating 3 out of 5]

🏁🦯