I’d Rather Be Dead Than Deaf offers a poignant and intimate glimpse into the life of Adrienne, a naturally gifted artist with a passion for drawing, writing, and music. This personal journal, meticulously curated by her older sister, Andrea Wilson Woods, covers the period from May 2000 to September 2001, encompassing Adrienne’s pre-diagnosis life, her grappling with the devastating news of liver cancer, and her subsequent journey through treatment.

Andrea Wilson Woods has crafted this diary into a moving tribute, allowing readers to intimately experience Adrienne’s world. The diary is rich with her notes, drawings, photographs, and poems, painting a vivid picture of a vibrant teenager with a distinctive sense of humor and a strong sense of self. It’s through these personal artifacts that we come to know and appreciate Adrienne’s unique personality and her journey of self-discovery. The authenticity and honesty in Adrienne’s reflections are striking. Andrea, while forewarning readers of Adrienne’s eventual passing, ensures that this knowledge does not overshadow the narrative. Instead, it provides a lens to better understand Adrienne’s evolving perspective on life and her emotional and mental growth.

The diary is a raw and unfiltered portrayal of her experiences, from her artistic pursuits to the rigors of chemotherapy and transfusions. Her unadorned account presents life as it is, without any embellishments, making for a deeply affecting read. The structure of the book, devoid of a traditional narrative and chronological storytelling, offers a realistic and unvarnished look at Adrienne’s life. Time jumps are part of its fabric, but they do not detract from the overall cohesiveness of the content. The diary chronicles Adrienne’s continuous learning, her efforts to improve herself, and her reflections on her favorite music, alongside her struggles and triumphs. This inclusion of diverse elements, such as a poetry portfolio and short stories towards the end, further enriches the narrative.

I’d Rather Be Dead Than Deaf is not just a memoir; it’s an exploration of a life lived with intensity and introspection. This book is a compelling account that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit, making it a significant read for a wide range of readers.

Pages: 442 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CXLPKZJ5