“Between Two Kingdoms: A Memoir of a Life Interrupted” is the heart-wrenching story of Suleika Jaouad’s battle with cancer. At just 24 years old, Jaouad was diagnosed with leukemia and faced an uphill struggle to survive. Against all odds, she prevailed and documented her journey in this powerful memoir. From chemotherapy treatments to anxiety attacks to hospitalizations, Jaouad courageously recounts her fight against cancer while grappling with questions about faith, identity, and mortality. “Between Two Kingdoms” is a moving testament to one woman’s strength in the face of adversity.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for people who want to read about somebody’s journey with cancer. It gives hope to those fighting the disease and has an inspirational message.
Pros :
- Jaouad is brutally honest in her writing, which makes for a powerful and compelling read.
- She tackles difficult questions about faith and mortality with grace and insight.
- Jaouad’s story is one of courage and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds; it will inspire readers everywhere.
Cons :
- It is very sad
- It can be repetitive at times
- The author focuses too much on herself
Learn more about the author
Suleika Jaouad is a writer and journalist based in Saratoga Springs, New York. After graduating from Colgate University with degrees in Middle Eastern studies and creative writing, she interned at The Economist before moving to Beirut where she worked as a staff reporter for NOW Lebanon. In 2012, Jaouad was diagnosed with leukemia and relocated to New York City for treatment while continuing to write regularly about her experience as a cancer patient for various media outlets including The Huffington Post, Slate, Elle UK,, Glamour US.,and Harper’s Bazaar Arabia.
Reader Reviews
“This is an incredibly powerful book. Jaouad’s story is so candid and honest, it feels like you are right there with her through every step of her cancer journey. Her writing is beautiful and poetic, making the reader feel both all the emotions she experienced as well as giving them insight into what it means to be a young Muslim woman in today’s world.”
“Stunningly written and brutally honest”
“Suleika Jaouad’s story is both harrowing and inspiring. Between Two Kingdoms takes us on an unforgettable journey from cancer diagnosis to remission, providing a rare glimpse into the thoughts and emotions of someone facing death head-on. This courageous account is at once heartbreaking and uplifting – a reminder that life is precious, no matter how short it may be.”
“An incredible and truly inspiring story.”