I Myself Have Seen It : Book Review

"I Myself Have Seen It" by Susanna Moore is a captivating memoir that takes readers on a haunting journey through the author's upbringing in Hawaii during the transformative 1950s and 1960s. With her lyrical prose, Moore transports us to the tropical paradise she once called home, where beauty and darkness coexist in a delicate balance.

At the heart of the memoir is Moore's complex relationship with her mother, a vibrant and unpredictable woman whose mental illness had a profound impact on the author's life. Moore delves deep into the emotional turmoil caused by her mother's condition, exposing her own feelings of isolation and longing for a true connection. Her honest and introspective portrayal of this bond showcases the intricate complexities of family relationships and their lasting effects.

Beyond her personal experiences, Moore also delves into the societal issues that plagued Hawaii during that era. She sheds light on the clash between the indigenous Hawaiian culture and the encroaching American influence, highlighting the tension and challenges faced by the island's local community. This broader perspective adds depth and context to her personal narrative, offering readers a nuanced understanding of the forces at play.

One of the defining aspects of "I Myself Have Seen It" is Moore's vivid and evocative descriptions of the Hawaiian landscape. Through her words, readers can almost feel the warm ocean breeze, see the lush forests, and hear the crashing waves. However, she also holds nothing back in revealing the underbelly of this paradise, unveiling the poverty, crime, and prejudice lurking beneath its surface.

In summary, "I Myself Have Seen It" is a poignant and introspective memoir that offers a captivating glimpse into the author's formative years in Hawaii. Moore seamlessly weaves together personal reflection and societal critique to create a narrative that resonates deeply with readers. Her eloquent writing style and insightful observations combine to make this memoir a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of family dynamics, identity, and the power of place.

What are readers saying?

The reception for Susanna Moore's novel, "I Myself Have Seen It," has been a mixed bag, with readers expressing diverse opinions on its merits. While some readers were captivated by the evocative and beautifully written prose, others found it lacking in depth and failed to fully engage with it.

One aspect of the book that garnered praise from positive reviews is Moore's descriptive writing style. Many readers were enthralled by her ability to vividly depict settings and landscapes, transporting them to the world she created. The atmospheric tone that Moore established was also appreciated by many, as it added to the overall reading experience.

Another commendable element mentioned by some readers is Moore's exploration of themes such as love and desire. They found her portrayal of relationships and the intricate complexities of human emotions to be thought-provoking and relatable. These readers believed that Moore's introspective approach contributed depth and nuance to the narrative.

However, there were also several readers who expressed disappointment with the book. Some found the plot to be meandering and disjointed, making it difficult to follow and fully engage with the story. The lack of a cohesive structure hindered their enjoyment of the book, leaving them dissatisfied.

Furthermore, a few readers criticized the character development in "I Myself Have Seen It." They felt that the characters lacked depth and complexity, making it hard to form an emotional connection with them. These readers were seeking more relatable and well-rounded individuals within the story, and the absence of strong characterization was a significant drawback for them.

IMyselfHaveSeenIt BookReview Memoir