A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
Wow! This is by no means an easy or uplifting read and yet, I found it to be utterly compelling. Containing graphic depictions of sexual abuse and self-harm which are excruciating and difficult to read, it is also strangely beautiful because the brutal chapters are skilfully balanced with extended sections portraying the unconditional kindness and support that the main character Jude, receives from his friends in adulthood. So, while it is a novel about friendship on one level, it is overwhelmingly a novel about the enduring impact of childhood abuse and the difficulties of recovery. A dark and disturbing, (and sometimes quite harrowing) but brilliant piece of writing!