Left Neglected by Lisa Genova

I love reading a story that is so engrossing, I would rather let the dinner burn than put it down, or tell myself I am just going to read one more chapter before I call it a night and then look up as I reach the last page and realize it’s two in the morning. Author Lisa Genova has delivered a tale of this caliber and more with her novel Left Neglected. When asked to describe this story in one word, the first one that pops into my brain is riveting. 

Genova’s writing is an example of masterful storytelling as she takes on the subject matter of a serious, debilitating, and real medical condition (one I had never heard of until this book), combining it with a strong, well-structured plot that kept me turning the pages as I became more and more intrigued with what was going to happen. She seamlessly weaves in an engaging, well-developed protagonist named Sarah whose high-powered, organized-to-the-umpteenth-minute-and-detail, I-can-do-it-all-and-have-it-all-life is derailed by a horrible car accident that leaves her with brain damage that takes away her ability to recognize not only the left side of her body but anything to the left of her. The journey that ensues for Sarah, her husband, and her children will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride, and inspire you to hope that you could meet such a challenge. It’s a tale of resilience, forgiveness, and, ultimately, the staying power of love. This is not a story about happily ever after. This is a story about how life turns on a dime and what is—or what should be—important in life. It is about the unexpected journey that is sometimes required to reach the place you are meant to be. 

I highly recommend this author and can’t wait to read the rest of her work. This is a don’t-miss read!