Swimming in Circles Is Better Than Drowning

Swiimming in Circles Is Better Than Drowning chronicles the story of a less-than graceful, tragicomic transformation from privileged daughter of her "e;perfect"e; 1950's family to middle-aged wife, mother and daughter. This book will engage you from the beginning by revealing rmemories. from childhood and adolescence,wriitten about in "e;Fitting In,"e; "e;My 15 Minutes of Fame"e; and "e;The Train Station."e; The author's marriage and family life is portrayed in "e;None Other Than Motherhood"e; and "e;The Other Side of the Waiting Room"e;. Midlife substance abuse interrupts the good life where the works turn intense and deeply emotional with "e;Circling the Drain"e; and "e;To and Fro."e; Our heroine begins her recomvery from her desolation with a lot of help, hence the poem, "e;Celebration."e; More of her humerous side is shown in a witty, tongue-in-cheek observation, "e;The Virgin Commute."e; Regained spirit and hope are evident in final chapters with "e;Increasing Fits of Happiness"e; and her ending, "e;My Obit."e; This book can offer solace and hope to some who have suffered or are still suffering from alcohol abuse and/or depression. Anyone who has lived with or has known the pain of watching one who lives an abusive lifestyle will relate to this story. They may also gain a better understanding of how we think and survive by planning every move around our addictions. In an imaginative memoir style, the mingling of light and serious essays along with a few poems provokes reflections, a few chuckles and maybe a few fond memories for the reader. Lee says, "e; I have dogpaddled through the deep end of life, but now I know it doesn't matter if don't get points for style. I am happy I am able to keep finally swim to shore and remain on solid ground--most of the time!"e;