More Than It Hurts You - A Review

Occasionally I have the opportunity to read a book that I want to put down, want to walk away from, but can't because of obligation. I say opportunity because I am the kind of person who likes to get away from things that make me uncomfortable no matter what the eventual outcome. I do it with television shows by changing the channel when a character makes a monumentally stupid decision and I do it with books by simply returning those that hit me where it hurts.

I realize I lose out because of this; but that feeling of emotional discomfort can be overwhelming.

Had I simply picked up the fictional drama More Than It Hurts You by Darrin Strauss at the library** I never would have finished it. But, because I was fortunate enough to be chosen as a reviewer for Mother Talk and the publishers graciously sent me a review copy of the book I was obligated to finish it.

That obligation turned into a bigger opportunity than I ever could have imagined at the outset.

The third offering from the author of The Real McCoy and Chang & Eng, Darrin Strauss brings us More Than It Hurts You and tells the story of a young mother accused of Munchausen by Proxy Syndrome, the doctor who makes the accusation, the husband who loves the accused, and briefly the child who is possibly her victim. (no spoilers here, I want you to read this book too) A twisting tale told from the viewpoint of each of the major players of the story and those who influence its outcome; you get into the heads of these people and see the accusations from every viewpoint possible except that which we usually have - outsider. In fact we are "treated" to an almost omniscient viewpoint in the case against Dori Goldin.

The writing and thus the story is paced methodically (with a few editorial issues that are easily forgiven) moves slowly and unfolds in great detail; sometimes detail that is uncomfortable. Although slow going at times, and occasionally difficult to grasp the necessity of entire chapters (you have to wait for the ending) More Than It Hurts You would make a fantastic book club selection allowing readers to explore in depth the repetitive themes of class and ethnicity in addition to the commentary on the medical and judicial establishments and how these elements in concert influence the outcome of the story.

More Than It Hurts You is a wonderfully told, emotionally gripping story that leaves the reader holding on until the very end.

Of Note: Darin will be blogging about his book tour for Newsweek.com

** This book did pass the library bookshelf test:
Interesting Spine
Great Cover Art
A Well Written Synopsis to Draw Me In