Please Read This Leaflet Carefully

Karen Havelin's Please Read This Leaflet Carefully is a life told in reverse, subverting expectations of illness stories. It follows Laura Fjellstad's struggle with endometriosis, navigating New York, Paris, and Oslo while being self-reliant. The novel explores relationships, motherhood, sexuality, pain, and the limitations of bodies, offering emotional insights and vivid descriptions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 30 May 2019
Publisher: Cinder House

Karen Havelin's novel, "Please Read This Leaflet Carefully," is a captivating and unconventional portrayal of a life lived in reverse, challenging the conventional expectations associated with illness narratives. The story follows Laura Fjellstad, who is diagnosed with endometriosis in her twenties. Despite the challenges posed by her chronic illness, Laura embarks on a journey of resilience and self-reliance, navigating her life across New York, Paris, and Oslo. Fueled by her unwavering belief that survival depends on her complete independence, Laura overcomes obstacles and perseveres in her pursuit of a normal life.

The novel unfolds in a backward trajectory, spanning from 2016 to 1995. Along the way, we meet Laura's younger selves, each representing a different phase of her life. From her days as a daughter, a talented figure skater, a passionate lover, and a nurturing mother, Laura emerges as a strong and independent individual who has conquered the adversities she has faced.

What makes "Please Read This Leaflet Carefully" truly remarkable is its ability to delve into the depths of emotion and provide profound insights into the human experience. Havelin's writing is characterized by its raw and honest portrayal of pain, both physical and emotional. The descriptions of Laura's suffering are vivid and linger in the mind long after the last page is turned. At the same time, the novel offers a captivating meditation on various themes, including relationships, motherhood, sexuality, and the limitations of our own bodies.

Through Laura's journey, Havelin explores the complexities of interpersonal connections and the challenges of navigating romantic relationships amidst a chronic illness. She delves into the complexities of motherhood, examining the sacrifices and rewards of raising a child while dealing with the physical and emotional toll of endometriosis. The novel also sheds light on the complexities of sexuality and the struggles individuals face in reconciling their desires with their physical limitations.

"Please Read This Leaflet Carefully" is a remarkable debut novel that demands to be devoured intensely in one sitting. It is a testament to Havelin's talent as a writer and her ability to convey the depth of human emotions with precision and authenticity. The novel's powerful storytelling and vivid descriptions make it a must-read for anyone who appreciates literary fiction that challenges societal norms and explores the intricacies of the human experience.

Weight: 228g
Dimension: 193 x 141 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911585541