Hunger for Life

Hunger for Life. What an apropos title for this.

James has just graduated university and moved back into his parents’ home as he figures out the path forward for his future. Younger sister, Emma, is anorexic and back in the hospital on a perpetual back and forth home-hospital cycle, as doctors and family desperately try to convince her to fight for her future. Two young adults who should have a hunger for life, but neither able to embrace it.

When James meets and falls in love with a free-spirited Austrian named Hannah, he sees in her the zest for life he should have. With his sister quite literally losing the battle for her life as both her medical team and family can’t break through to her, James has a choice before him:  Should he be the dutiful brother, son and protector that he’s always tried to be for his family, or should he follow Hannah on her dreams to go around the world and start living his own life? After all, it’s not only Emma that’s falling apart. He’s drinking too much, his dad is all but living in their garage, and his mom is just trying to keep her family together. Something has to give.

Andy Marr’s debut novel beautifully captures the cost to a family when any one of its members is suffering deeply from any affliction - in this case, mental illness. Despite coming from a supportive family, and having a close relationship with James, Emma was always an anxious child and began exhibiting anorexic behaviors at seven years old.  Despite the common urge to blame it on the family or parents, Emma had everything she needed to thrive, yet she couldn’t escape the internal voices that told her she was fat, ugly and unacceptable.  Her abusive behavior towards those trying to help her is difficult to watch, but easier to understand if you see it from her perspective of wanting to control something that no one will let her control.

It’s raw, sobering, and frustrating at times, but it’s also tempered with moments of humor.  You can see Marr’s own experience with his sister at play in the pages, which makes the book all the more personal and powerful. Those who’ve experienced family trauma in any way will likely relate, and those who haven’t, may understand those who have a little better.  I highly recommend it!

★★★★