Every year on April 11, the global community celebrates World Parkinsons Day. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, muscle control, and balance. The day aims to increase public understanding, support research efforts, and improve the quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. World Parkinson’s Day was first established in 1997 by the European Parkinson’s Disease Association in collaboration with the World Health Organization. The goal was to create a unified, international effort to shine a light on the challenges faced by those with the disease and to promote education, early diagnosis, and funding for research. Recently I read the book “Maame” by Jessica George which follows the perspective of a daughter taking care of her father who has late-stage Parkinson’s. While the main focus of the book is not necessarily surrounded by Parkinson’s disease, it is a key aspect to the plot, and I figured that it would be a good book to bring awareness to on World Parkinson’s Day.
About the Book:
“Maame” is actually the debut novel of Jessica George, a British-Ghanaian author. Even though it is her first book, “Maame” has captured international attention for its intimate, heartfelt, and sharply observant storytelling. Born and raised in London, George brings her personal experiences and cultural background into her work, crafting stories that resonate with readers navigating the complexities of identity, family, and adulthood. Published in 2023, “Maame” quickly became a standout in contemporary fiction, celebrated for its honest portrayal of a young woman trying to find her voice in a world of conflicting expectations. The novel was inspired in part by George’s own life, particularly her experience caring for a parent with Parkinson’s disease and balancing the weight of cultural and familial responsibility with personal growth. The title, “Maame,” which means “mother” in Twi (a Ghanaian language), is central to the book’s themes, symbolizing both the expectations placed on the main character and the legacy she must learn to carry or let go.
The story follows Maddie Wright, a 25-year-old British-Ghanaian woman living in London who finds herself shouldering more than her fair share of adult responsibilities. She is the primary caregiver for her father, who suffers from advanced Parkinson’s disease, while her mother spends much of her time in Ghana. Maddie’s brother is largely absent, leaving her to manage both the emotional and physical demands of caregiving alone. When Maddie’s mother returns to London, Maddie takes the opportunity to move out and start a new chapter of her life. As she enters the world on her own terms, navigating friendships, romantic relationships, and her career, Maddie begins to confront the questions she’s long avoided: Who is she, really? What does she want? And what does it mean to live for herself rather than for others?
Review of the Books:
I really enjoyed this novel. It was such a quick and delightful read. One of the greatest strengths of it is its emotional depth and resonance. Jessica George masterfully captures Maddie’s inner world with honesty and vulnerability, making her experiences feel authentic and deeply moving. The novel also stands out for its thoughtful portrayal of a bicultural identity. George balances the depiction of Ghanaian traditions and British life, shedding light on the sometimes-conflicting expectations that Maddie must navigate. Additionally, the narrative voice is intimate and engaging, drawing the reader close to her thoughts and feelings, with the novel’s humor and warmth shine through even in its heaviest moments, adding balance and charm.
I feel that this book is a fantastic portrayal of everyday life for many people. It is messy and brutal at times, yet there are still moments of greatness that shine through even in the darkest hours. However, for a book that is so upfront and honest about the reality of life, I felt that the ending was a bit too perfect, almost feeling like a Hallmark movie, especially in the final pages. But other than that, I this book was an absolutely amazing read that I highly recommend. Overall, “Maame” is an astonishing debut novel that thoughtfully explores identity, family, and the courage it takes to step into one’s own life. Maddie is a protagonist who will stay with you, she is vulnerable, brave, and learning to grow on her own terms. This novel marks a strong beginning for George’s writing career, and I can’t wait to see what other novels she has in store. Happy World Parkinson’s Day!
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