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Dear Philomena
An extraordinary debut novel from the young Ugandan/Rwandan/Nigerian, Dear Philomena, is the story of two strokes, one boy, one girl and a whole lot of magical realism. July 1991, Leocardia Byenkya underwent an ultrasound that informed her to expect a baby girl. She chose the name Philomena. January 16 1992, her baby was born as a boy. Filled with shock and surprise, Leocardia named her baby boy Mugabi.
December 2014, Mugabi suffered from two strokes within a week of each other. Mugabi was 22 years old. 'Dear Philomena,' is a series of thoughts and conversations between Mugabi and Philomena (the girl he was supposed to be) about the year he was supposed to die but somehow lived through.
December 2014, Mugabi suffered from two strokes within a week of each other. Mugabi was 22 years old. 'Dear Philomena,' is a series of thoughts and conversations between Mugabi and Philomena (the girl he was supposed to be) about the year he was supposed to die but somehow lived through.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 26, 2017
4 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Mugabi Byenkya
5 books23 followersMugabi Byenkya is an award-winning writer, editor, performer and rapper. They write and perform across various mediums, namely: prose, poetry, comics, essays, drama & songs. Mugabi was born in Nigeria, to Ugandan parents and is currently based in Kampala.
Mugabi’s writing is used to teach Secondary/High School English in Ugandan, Canadian and British schools. Their writing and music has been published in Carte Blanche, Best Canadian Poetry, and Skin Deep, along with over 40 other international publications and anthologies. They have been interviewed on Voice of America, NTV Uganda, and Brittle Paper, along with over 100 other international media outlets.
In 2015: Mugabi was longlisted for the Babishai Niwe Poetry Award.
In 2017: they won the Discovering Diversity Poetry Contest; their award-nominated debut novel-memoir, ‘Dear Philomena,’ was published via the independent Canadian publisher Discovering Diversity Publishing; and they went on a 3 year, 90 show, 45 city, 5 country North America/East Africa tour in support of this.
In 2018: Mugabi was awarded as one of 56 writers who has contributed to their native Uganda’s literary heritage in the 56 years since independence by Writivism; and Dear Philomena, was named a Ugandan bestseller.
In 2019: Mugabi was selected as one of ten emerging theater artists in b current Performing Arts Emerging Artists Ensemble 2019/2020; they were named as one of three finalists for Realwheels Playwright-In-Residence and the recipient of an inaugural Realwheels Encouragement Award.
In 2020: Mugabi’s poem “If I Die Bury Me Next To My Father” was selected by Marilyn Dumont to be anthologized in “Best Canadian Poetry 2020” published by Biblioasis; and their debut novel-memoir ‘Dear Philomena,’ was nominated for the 2020 Nommo Awards For Speculative Fiction By Africans.
In 2022: Mugabi was shortlisted as one of three finalists for the 26 Emerging Writers Award and received a highly commended award; and on the penultimate day of 2022, Mugabi released their award-nominated, label bestselling debut mixtape “Songs For Wo(Men) 2” via the independent American record label Hello America Stereo Cassette.
In 2023: Mugabi was shortlisted as one of three finalists for the Inclusive Africa Icon Award 2023, as well as being selected as a panelist for the Inclusive Africa Conference 2023; they received a fellowship to attend the Sundress Academy For The Arts 2nd Annual Writers Retreat; additionally, Mugabi was nominated for 2 Ugandan Hip-Hop Awards; namely:
1. “Western Rapper of The Year” for “Philomena’s Voicemail #2”
2. “Mixtape of The Year” for “Songs For Wo(Men) 2” their debut mixtape; in support of their debut mixtape Mugabi has been interviewed on award-winning blogs, podcasts, newspapers, radio and TV; and performed at several concerts in Kampala to audiences of over 150 people; moreover, Mugabi was selected as an auditor for the Poets and Scholars Summer Writing Retreat 2023 by Rutgers University Institute for the Study of Global Racial Justice.
In 2024: Mugabi was selected as the Guest Author at The North Green School’s Yearly Book Week; they were selected as Panelist for The Association of Writers & Writing Programs Annual Conference and Book Fair 2024 (AWP) in Kansas City (one of the largest and most prestigious writers conferences in the United States). The two panels they served on were: “Pathways to Publishing for Indie Authors of Color” and “A Turn of the Page: From Journalism to Creative Writing” ; Mugabi’s debut chapbook “Songs For Wo(Men)” (the prequel to “Songs For Wo(Men) 2”) was published as the first in the Sheffield Chapbooks Series, an imprint of the award-winning Canadian publisher Gordon Hill Press; they were jointly awarded alongside Lilac Yosiphon and John Rwothomack an Unlimited British Council Micro Award. These awards, funded by British Council, aim to forge connections between disabled artists in the UK and disabled artists overseas through a collabora
Mugabi’s writing is used to teach Secondary/High School English in Ugandan, Canadian and British schools. Their writing and music has been published in Carte Blanche, Best Canadian Poetry, and Skin Deep, along with over 40 other international publications and anthologies. They have been interviewed on Voice of America, NTV Uganda, and Brittle Paper, along with over 100 other international media outlets.
In 2015: Mugabi was longlisted for the Babishai Niwe Poetry Award.
In 2017: they won the Discovering Diversity Poetry Contest; their award-nominated debut novel-memoir, ‘Dear Philomena,’ was published via the independent Canadian publisher Discovering Diversity Publishing; and they went on a 3 year, 90 show, 45 city, 5 country North America/East Africa tour in support of this.
In 2018: Mugabi was awarded as one of 56 writers who has contributed to their native Uganda’s literary heritage in the 56 years since independence by Writivism; and Dear Philomena, was named a Ugandan bestseller.
In 2019: Mugabi was selected as one of ten emerging theater artists in b current Performing Arts Emerging Artists Ensemble 2019/2020; they were named as one of three finalists for Realwheels Playwright-In-Residence and the recipient of an inaugural Realwheels Encouragement Award.
In 2020: Mugabi’s poem “If I Die Bury Me Next To My Father” was selected by Marilyn Dumont to be anthologized in “Best Canadian Poetry 2020” published by Biblioasis; and their debut novel-memoir ‘Dear Philomena,’ was nominated for the 2020 Nommo Awards For Speculative Fiction By Africans.
In 2022: Mugabi was shortlisted as one of three finalists for the 26 Emerging Writers Award and received a highly commended award; and on the penultimate day of 2022, Mugabi released their award-nominated, label bestselling debut mixtape “Songs For Wo(Men) 2” via the independent American record label Hello America Stereo Cassette.
In 2023: Mugabi was shortlisted as one of three finalists for the Inclusive Africa Icon Award 2023, as well as being selected as a panelist for the Inclusive Africa Conference 2023; they received a fellowship to attend the Sundress Academy For The Arts 2nd Annual Writers Retreat; additionally, Mugabi was nominated for 2 Ugandan Hip-Hop Awards; namely:
1. “Western Rapper of The Year” for “Philomena’s Voicemail #2”
2. “Mixtape of The Year” for “Songs For Wo(Men) 2” their debut mixtape; in support of their debut mixtape Mugabi has been interviewed on award-winning blogs, podcasts, newspapers, radio and TV; and performed at several concerts in Kampala to audiences of over 150 people; moreover, Mugabi was selected as an auditor for the Poets and Scholars Summer Writing Retreat 2023 by Rutgers University Institute for the Study of Global Racial Justice.
In 2024: Mugabi was selected as the Guest Author at The North Green School’s Yearly Book Week; they were selected as Panelist for The Association of Writers & Writing Programs Annual Conference and Book Fair 2024 (AWP) in Kansas City (one of the largest and most prestigious writers conferences in the United States). The two panels they served on were: “Pathways to Publishing for Indie Authors of Color” and “A Turn of the Page: From Journalism to Creative Writing” ; Mugabi’s debut chapbook “Songs For Wo(Men)” (the prequel to “Songs For Wo(Men) 2”) was published as the first in the Sheffield Chapbooks Series, an imprint of the award-winning Canadian publisher Gordon Hill Press; they were jointly awarded alongside Lilac Yosiphon and John Rwothomack an Unlimited British Council Micro Award. These awards, funded by British Council, aim to forge connections between disabled artists in the UK and disabled artists overseas through a collabora
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
January 5, 2018
Dear Philomena is a candid, raw, and emotionally riveting read. I've known Mugabi since the 2nd grade but due to the nature of our international upbringing and constant changing of school and country, it wasn't always possible for us to keep in touch. However, a few months ago I was fortunate enough to meet up with my childhood friend after 10+ years, and learned about his trials and tribulations. I was shocked that such a young individual could endure several strokes and still maintain such an aura of positivity and cheer. I was energized and determined to learn more about Mugabi so I ordered a copy of Dear Philomena. The book greatly contextualized our conversation and even though I will never truly understand the hardships Mugabi had to endure, he has taught me that resilience is one of the defining characteristics of the human race. I appreciate you sharing your vulnerability and story with the world, and I can't wait to read your next novel!
Much love brother.
Much love brother.
June 25, 2017
You cannot not find the cover of this book interesting. A face split into two with snail mail flowing between the two parts. If the cover doesn’t reveal that what he’s talking about is a “split personality”, perhaps the prologue will give you a hint and the epilogue confirm it.
In an unprecedented style, Mugabi storifies a trying period in his life as he addresses key issues of chronic pain, mental illness and depression. It’s not something that Mugabi keeps from you until a later time in the novel, no, the story of his experience with strokes starts right from the first chapter, that is, “February 2001”.
The novel is laid out in 15 chapters which are 14 months (one repeated); Feb 2001 being the first time he has a stroke, Dec 2014 being the second time and the next 12 months detailing the complications he deals with which include constant seizures, pain episodes, weakness, insomnia, his seemingly vain search for the right diagnosis, his frustrations with doctors who seem to be on a guessing game, even friends who cannot bear his new condition.
He drops some very short but deep phrases, like “It’s pathetic what overexertion entails these days.” And anyone who has chronic pain can relate. I can because I know that a shower, writing for 20 minutes, standing up can make you relapse into pain. So when he speaks of friends who don’t understand as having “able-bodied privilege”, it makes perfect sense to me.
The story is told in a series of conversations Mugabi has with Philomena, by text message, snail mail and calls, as well as with himself by way of writing in his diary and social media under the handle “@gabster”.
The influence of music is felt with several world famous artists coming up in conversation. His own artistry expressed in a long poem he writes to Philomena expressing his discontent with loss, pain, generally the ugly side of the human condition.
There are other themes like racism, sexuality and the influence of theism. At one point Mugabi remarks how the book of Job should have been named the book of Mugabi. Philomena on the other hand always adds an Islamic greeting when wishing him to get better and it is clear that we have Islam and Catholicism interacting on a very intimate yet non-offending level.
There is a heavy undertone for bi-sexuality throughout the novel but perhaps that is something the reader will decide on.
As you listen to the conversations (having read the prologue) you keep wondering, is there really a friendship as close and as personal as this? That could there indeed be a friend who sticks closer than a brother (the way the Bible puts it?) Someone that never gets tired of your endless venting and whining and complaining and only always offers the right things to say? Writes you letters and sends you gifts?
And you are constantly saying no, because of the prologue, and in fact, the epilogue. It cannot be. Decidedly, the moment you get to the “Acknowledgements”, the characters in the conversations make sense. And you realise what Philomena means. What it means to those struggling with depression. What it means to those dealing with pain. What it means to Byenkya.
The device Byenkya uses to relay his message is very clever. Right from the cover, to the background story of his birth, the characters and the acknowledgements, you feel that if this came through to him in such a trying time, we should definitely expect some more enjoyable stuff from this stroke survivor.
In an unprecedented style, Mugabi storifies a trying period in his life as he addresses key issues of chronic pain, mental illness and depression. It’s not something that Mugabi keeps from you until a later time in the novel, no, the story of his experience with strokes starts right from the first chapter, that is, “February 2001”.
The novel is laid out in 15 chapters which are 14 months (one repeated); Feb 2001 being the first time he has a stroke, Dec 2014 being the second time and the next 12 months detailing the complications he deals with which include constant seizures, pain episodes, weakness, insomnia, his seemingly vain search for the right diagnosis, his frustrations with doctors who seem to be on a guessing game, even friends who cannot bear his new condition.
He drops some very short but deep phrases, like “It’s pathetic what overexertion entails these days.” And anyone who has chronic pain can relate. I can because I know that a shower, writing for 20 minutes, standing up can make you relapse into pain. So when he speaks of friends who don’t understand as having “able-bodied privilege”, it makes perfect sense to me.
The story is told in a series of conversations Mugabi has with Philomena, by text message, snail mail and calls, as well as with himself by way of writing in his diary and social media under the handle “@gabster”.
The influence of music is felt with several world famous artists coming up in conversation. His own artistry expressed in a long poem he writes to Philomena expressing his discontent with loss, pain, generally the ugly side of the human condition.
There are other themes like racism, sexuality and the influence of theism. At one point Mugabi remarks how the book of Job should have been named the book of Mugabi. Philomena on the other hand always adds an Islamic greeting when wishing him to get better and it is clear that we have Islam and Catholicism interacting on a very intimate yet non-offending level.
There is a heavy undertone for bi-sexuality throughout the novel but perhaps that is something the reader will decide on.
As you listen to the conversations (having read the prologue) you keep wondering, is there really a friendship as close and as personal as this? That could there indeed be a friend who sticks closer than a brother (the way the Bible puts it?) Someone that never gets tired of your endless venting and whining and complaining and only always offers the right things to say? Writes you letters and sends you gifts?
And you are constantly saying no, because of the prologue, and in fact, the epilogue. It cannot be. Decidedly, the moment you get to the “Acknowledgements”, the characters in the conversations make sense. And you realise what Philomena means. What it means to those struggling with depression. What it means to those dealing with pain. What it means to Byenkya.
The device Byenkya uses to relay his message is very clever. Right from the cover, to the background story of his birth, the characters and the acknowledgements, you feel that if this came through to him in such a trying time, we should definitely expect some more enjoyable stuff from this stroke survivor.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2017
This book is a treasure and a gift. As someone who can relate to unbearable chronic pain, this book and Mugabi's work fill my heart with so much joy at seeing someone articulate what I have been so far unable to say. Heart- and gut-wrenching, powerful, intelligent, stylish and unique are all words that I could use to describe this book.
The style is important because not only do I feel I recognize ways in which it captures the mind of someone with chronic pain, but also because it made it easier to read, as someone with chronic pain. There are no big blocks of text, which is crucial when pain is interfering with your ability to process.
This was the first time since regaining the ability to read that I tore through pages like that :)
I would love if my friends and family could read this book, to understand what some of my past was like. To survive a painful ordeal is a struggle, but to encapsulate it into prose for others to relate to and commiserate with is heroic. I am truly grateful and in awe of this book.
The style is important because not only do I feel I recognize ways in which it captures the mind of someone with chronic pain, but also because it made it easier to read, as someone with chronic pain. There are no big blocks of text, which is crucial when pain is interfering with your ability to process.
This was the first time since regaining the ability to read that I tore through pages like that :)
I would love if my friends and family could read this book, to understand what some of my past was like. To survive a painful ordeal is a struggle, but to encapsulate it into prose for others to relate to and commiserate with is heroic. I am truly grateful and in awe of this book.
May 31, 2017
This book has challenged my understanding of the world in ways that I would have never expected. It is hard to believe that someone can undergo those kinds of situations and still be standing strong and living life to the fullest. It made me appreciate the simple things and it made me realize how grateful I am that my body is on my side. But what inspired me the most is that the author did not let his body define who he is and what he is capable of. It is as if he was born again into this World because he now inhaits a new body, but his mind and soul remain untouchable! So inspirnig and motivational!
The reading was so easy going! I am not a letters person myself but I could not put my Kindle down! I loved how well the author wrote in a way so that the younger generations could relate. It is as if it was meant for us and it was written in our language.
I would recommend this book to anyone because it is just STELLAR!
The reading was so easy going! I am not a letters person myself but I could not put my Kindle down! I loved how well the author wrote in a way so that the younger generations could relate. It is as if it was meant for us and it was written in our language.
I would recommend this book to anyone because it is just STELLAR!
April 12, 2018
This novel is a must read. It had me emotionally engaged the entire time, and the unique format (with the back & forth instant messages and breaks for phone calls of different length) got my mind thinking in different ways about what Mugabi was implying by not needing to even "say" anything in some cases. That's powerful. It was also a very relatable way to write (since so much of our communication lives are built on instant messages and social media nowadays.)
Thank you, Mugabi, for sharing your story. All that you went through and have overcome and continue to conquer, compounded by the horrible struggles and torment that you went through with the medical system. It was so eye-opening, the world needs to be more aware and changes clearly need to be made. Your story and this book can help move to demand and make those changes. That's powerful. I also learned a lot from your perspective on friendship and support in tough times. You're an amazing person and a talented writer.
Thank you, Mugabi, for sharing your story. All that you went through and have overcome and continue to conquer, compounded by the horrible struggles and torment that you went through with the medical system. It was so eye-opening, the world needs to be more aware and changes clearly need to be made. Your story and this book can help move to demand and make those changes. That's powerful. I also learned a lot from your perspective on friendship and support in tough times. You're an amazing person and a talented writer.
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May 31, 2017This book uses an inventive storytelling technique that engages the reader directly, which makes it an easy read. The book tackles the very tough subjects of mental and physical health with utmost sincerity and good humor, making it easy to read in spite of its grueling theme. Not a tear-jerker, Dear Philomena uses the title character as the Ying to Mugabi’s Yang, always shinning a positive light and distracting from the odds that seem to always be stacked against the main character, suffering from chronic illness, while broadening the topics covered in the book. Above all this book is an eye-opener, as it helps understand the reality and better empathize with people who go through chronic illness.
August 21, 2018
The first time I saw this book cover I was curious to read it wondering why this split face cover so I bought it. I read this book between the lines and it left me heart broken as Mugabi takes you down the story lane authentically. And by the time I met Mugabi physically it seemed like I had known him all his life and I am so humbled. This book gave me reason to always write and keep on writing. This book is a must read and have. This book has a voice that calls you from the dark and anyone else who has had hospital experiences can easily relate. Thanks so much Mugabi for speaking up for everyone else out there. I am so humbled for I got to know you personally. This book has to be in your personal library.
March 24, 2017
I absolutely could not put this book down! I read the book cover to cover in one day because I was completely enraptured with the writing style. I have never before read a book that left me with as many questions as answers. “Dear Philomena” left me heartbroken and feeling raw in the way only a true story can. I think anyone who struggles with an illness (physical or mental) would be able to relate with Mugabi and this book absolutely feels like he’s shouting from the rooftops “you’re not alone” to those who may be struggling. We don’t get to choose our lives and a million different factors make up who we are and this book explores this idea.
December 7, 2017
I read Dear Philomena in one sitting, just couldn't put it down. Mugabi's strength in sharing these raw emotions was so powerful. What a plight he went through, exacerbated by the lack of empathy shown by doctors he encountered. As someone interested in alternative healing methods, I was comforted to know that he was able to find peace and strength through that. Mugabi's writing style, in a dialogue with his dear friend Philomena was very engaging. I CANNOT wait for a sequel to hear what happened next! Thank you for sharing your story Mugabi.
March 2, 2018
I bought this book in Kampala after being hooked by the glossary right at the start. It seemed so frank. And funny. I wasn't quite sure how to read this book as this was a tone and a voice I was not used to. It took me a while to realise that this was a true tale - just an honest account of an incredible life, told as it happened. The book was an eye-opener for me and not just into what it might be like living with chronic pain. An exploration into honesty.
March 24, 2017
Very intense and ensightful read. Anyone who has had or knows anyone who has had chronic pain, illness, and or issues with arrogant dismissive doctors must read. The book grabs ahold of you from page one and doesn't let go. The book definitely provides strength to anyone suffering from any problems life throws at them.
January 14, 2018
I just finished this work. I am amazed by the display of vulnerability that was explored in the book. I really enjoyed the style, written as a text and social media conversation between close friends during an illness. Amazing portrayal of the variety of feelings that surround both navigating the healthcare system & coming to terms with what life may look like with illness.
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July 25, 2021Dear Philomena is a wonderful gift from Mugabi Byenkya. It opened my eyes to all the things I take for granted in life; now I am more grateful. It made me appreciate pain on a whole different level, how to be there for my loved ones in pain, without adding to the pain.
Thank you Mugabi for sharing your story with us, even amidst excruciating circumstances. May your light ever be bright.
Thank you Mugabi for sharing your story with us, even amidst excruciating circumstances. May your light ever be bright.
April 4, 2017
Really deep, really personal. The realities of life. Raw and Real….. Thank you for putting yourself out there and sharing your story with us. I feel like I know you on a higher level that I can truly appreciate. I need to meet with you and have a long conversation!!
April 9, 2018
This gripping book is not one you can easily put down, as Mugabi draws you into his frustrating, painful, and isolating day-to-day life in a way that is truly raw and uncut. Thank you for inviting us into your life and sharing with us what a vulnerable and resilient person you are.
December 24, 2017
A needed story in our time right now.
September 15, 2021
This is definitely a page-turner dealing with many topics in a very engaging way.
August 7, 2022
I know Mugabi personally but this book really opened my eyes to the inspiration that he is. He's so transparent about his story, I laughed and cried so hard! We need more books with this level of honesty.
July 17, 2019
I never usually write reviews but this was a book I definitely had to share my experience with.
The style of the book is modern, relatable, and refreshing I almost felt as though I was a part of the dialogues.
Mugabe, I'm sorry to hear about the troubles you have been through and truly admire your approach both through action and perspective! This taught me so much with regards to physical and mental health.
So thank you, and I hope you have found more answers since writing your book ♥️
The style of the book is modern, relatable, and refreshing I almost felt as though I was a part of the dialogues.
Mugabe, I'm sorry to hear about the troubles you have been through and truly admire your approach both through action and perspective! This taught me so much with regards to physical and mental health.
So thank you, and I hope you have found more answers since writing your book ♥️
December 1, 2022
Mugabi is a bit of a magical human being. He has courage and strength that seem super human at times. Even though a lot of the book focuses on pain and wanting to give up he never does. This book really drives home a lot of the problems with our country’s medical system as a whole and how easy it is for others who don’t understand your pain will easily cast you aside. The talks with Philomena are delightful and heartwarming. Not only is this book perfect for people with chronic pain but really anyone with a soul who is looking for shreds of hope. I couldn’t possibly recommend this book enough.
October 15, 2021
This book is raw. It immediately hits you with sensations that books are seldom published in. The author vividly describes their disability and the horrors accompanied in a narrative that defies ablism's boundaries for what is 'appropriate.' As if that wasn't enough, the writer explores themes of love, suffering, forgiveness, family and gender identity in a cultural and personal spectrum. This book is profound, even down to the structure of the text!
I read it in one sitting and would highly recommend
I read it in one sitting and would highly recommend
April 4, 2017
Right off the bat, one wouldn't know what to make of the story. It is as beautiful as it is upsetting, a definite must-read. 'Dear Philomena' exemplifies a strong positive theme for many people suffering with chronic pain, and Mugabi's writing style constantly creates the balance that reassures the reader of the light at the end of the tunnel. It is funny, it is raw, it is hard to put down once you get started. worth reading twice!
February 28, 2019
Dear Philomena is a book is an incredibly emotional book that will undoubtedly pull heartstrings from all fortunate enough to hold a copy. His portrayal and description of his path will give anyone a better understanding of the lived experience he had to endure, and I encourage anyone who would like to better understand the hardships within the book as well as themselves to absolutely read this piece.
Thank you Mugabi, for having the courage to bring us Dear Philomena.
Thank you Mugabi, for having the courage to bring us Dear Philomena.
August 13, 2022
A harrowing and compelling read. Unique in both the subject matter and writing style. In this book, we take a peek into the life of the author, his journey with chronic illness and pain. The reader is with him on the good days. The reader joins him on hospital runs and as the frequency of them multiplies. The reader witnesses an abundance of love that surrounds him during his difficult time and also a cloud of hope that encompasses him, no matter how dark it gets. I truly enjoyed it!
June 6, 2017
A good book leaves you thinking about it long after you're done reading it. I keep thinking about the book "Dear Philomena" and it still brings tears to my eyes. I couldn't put the book down, I was drawn in right from the start. Now I find myself wishing I had a friendship/relationship like the one between Mugabi and Philomena. Just an overall great book
October 27, 2018
I heard Mugabi perform at two different poetry readings. His struggle to come to terms with how his illnesses impacted his life is clearly laid out in this book. I loved the style he used to move the story along. Many very powerful statements about life, and being human, and struggling through the system! Great read!
July 11, 2019
This book is the most unique piece of work I’ve ever read, refusing to conform to known ways of prose and or poetry, but managing to convey a powerful story that will leave you equal parts inspired and dismayed. Mugabi not only tells a raw and emotional tale but also critiques the medical establishment, ableism, patriarchy, and gender expectations. A riveting read.
June 3, 2020
Mugabi is a talented author who brings in clever mechanisms of storytelling to paint a raw and realistic picture of what it is like to live realities that can trap or free you. As someone who manages chronic illness, I think the frank reality and telling-like-it-is feels that you are reading with a friend in the pages. Excited to see what else they write!
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May 10, 2021The writing formats takes reference to a style am used to communicating with i.e. WhatsApp.
I particularly relented to the communication style Mugabi and his dear friend Philomena have/had. So relatable.
The story, the pain, the friendship, the raw honesty. Eh it's a book that takes you through a series of emotions. Deep emotions.
Read it. Learn from it. Buy the book.
I particularly relented to the communication style Mugabi and his dear friend Philomena have/had. So relatable.
The story, the pain, the friendship, the raw honesty. Eh it's a book that takes you through a series of emotions. Deep emotions.
Read it. Learn from it. Buy the book.
May 12, 2019
This book provided a lot of insight into the challenges of the medical system and how beautiful a friendship can be even through the worst of times. I appreciate the nod to the ways systemic oppression can play out in our lives.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews