Tanya Frank is a likable everymom who finds herself faced with disaster. Her child's sudden illness cannot be healed or even clearly defined. As mothers, we know these possibilities exist, but it's easier to believe they only happen to other people. Frank's memoir is a
…more clear, intelligent narrative of the lengths any of us would go to for our children and the courage to live our own lives despite that struggle.
As the mother of a kid with special needs, I identified with the feeling of my child's life possibilities narrowed overnight by a diagnosis. I also appreciated this memoir's insight into what it means to have a mental break, how some people live with the condition, and the effects of psychotic drugs. Frank's firsthand account really normalized this misunderstood diagnosis and brought to light all of the difficulties brought on by both the illness and the treatment.
Throughout the memoir, we're reminded that Frank is not just Zak's mother, but a person in her own right. Her love of marine mammals gives her a sense of purpose and identity apart from motherhood.
I often get the same feeling at the end of a memoir that there should be more, and Zig-Zag Boy was no exception. I truly hope Tanya Frank and her son find their way to peace. (less)
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