Head Above Water: Reflections on Illness

Shahd Alshammaris memoir, Head Above Water, explores her diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis at eighteen in a conservative Kuwaiti society, examining memory, time, gender politics, and the power of women's education.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: Neem Tree Press Limited

Head Above Water is a captivating memoir by Professor Shahd Alshammaris, who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at the age of eighteen in a conservative Kuwaiti society. Drawing from her diary entries and fading memories as the disease progresses, Alshammaris offers a poignant and personal account of her journey. Through her sensuous prose, she delves into the manipulation of memory, the complexities of time, and the intricate interplay of gender politics. The book invites readers to reconsider the intricacies of love, the body, motherhood, the power of language, the significance of womens education, and the profound synergy between the professor and her student.

Alshammaris' writing is characterized by its exquisite prose, which explores the delicate balance between the fading memories of the past and the present realities of her illness. She skillfully weaves together her personal experiences with broader societal and cultural themes, creating a rich tapestry of insights and reflections. The book is a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit, even in the face of adversity.

One of the most striking aspects of Head Above Water is Alshammaris' exploration of the manipulation of memory. As the disease takes its toll on her cognitive abilities, she struggles to retain her memories and experiences. However, she also discovers that memory can be shaped and manipulated, both by herself and by others around her. This theme raises important questions about the nature of truth and the role of memory in shaping our understanding of the world.

Another theme that emerges in the book is the question of time. Alshammaris reflects on the passing of time and the ways in which her illness has altered her perception of it. She realizes that time can be both fleeting and infinite, and that her illness has forced her to confront her own mortality and the preciousness of each moment.

Gender politics also plays a significant role in Head Above Water. Alshammaris challenges the traditional gender roles and stereotypes that exist in her society and explores the ways in which her illness has impacted her identity and sense of self. She highlights the importance of breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity and equality for all individuals, regardless of their gender or disability.

In addition to its profound insights into the human experience, Head Above Water is also a love letter to the act of teaching and being taught. Alshammaris demonstrates her passion for learning and her commitment to her students. Through her interactions with her students, she inspires them to think critically, challenge assumptions, and embrace diversity.

Overall, Head Above Water is a remarkable memoir that offers a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience. Through her poignant prose and insightful reflections, Professor Shahd Alshammaris invites readers to reconsider the stories that we are made of and to embrace the beauty and complexity of life, even in the face of adversity.

Weight: 186g
Dimension: 196 x 129 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911107408