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Writer's pictureSusanna Rowlett

The Depths of Family and Self in "I Know This Much Is True" by Wally Lamb


Readers seeking a profound exploration of family dynamics and personal growth, let's delve into "I Know This Much Is True" by Wally Lamb. This hefty novel, classified under literary fiction, is a powerful saga of twins, mental illness, and the unbreakable bonds of family.


Wally Lamb, known for his deep and emotionally resonant writing in books like "She's Come Undone" and "The Hour I First Believed," introduces us to Dominick and Thomas Birdsey, twin brothers whose lives are forever intertwined. Thomas suffers from schizophrenia, and Dominick struggles with his own demons while trying to save his brother.


This book is a compelling read for those who appreciate complex characters and narratives that explore the intricacies of human psychology and relationships. Fans of "The Prince of Tides" by Pat Conroy or "A Little Life" by Hanya Yanagihara will find Lamb’s novel similarly engrossing.


Based on online reviews, "I Know This Much Is True" is praised for its raw honesty, intricate storytelling, and Lamb's ability to delve into the complexities of life, love, and forgiveness. It's often described as a heart-wrenching yet ultimately uplifting journey.


While this is one of Lamb’s most renowned works, his other novels also offer rich, character-driven stories.


I recommend "I Know This Much Is True" to anyone looking for a deeply moving story that explores the challenges of mental illness, identity, and the power of familial bonds. It’s a book that will stay with you long after the last page.


Favorite Quote: “I am not a smart man, particularly, but one day, at long last, I stumbled from the dark woods of my own, and my family's, and my country's past, knowing that I would never be alone.”



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