A very necessary addition to the canon of literature about women's bodies and disability, and the consequences of dismissal of women's pain

"The Tiger and the Cage" by Emma Bolden is a gut-wrenching debut memoir that sheds light on the harrowing journey of living with chronic pain, particularly the debilitating condition of endometriosis. Bolden's raw and unflinchingly honest narrative takes readers on a roller-coaster ride through the labyrinth of Western medicine's institutional misogyny. She bravely confronts the historical and ongoing stigmatization of women's pain, revealing the shockingly dismissive treatment that so many women have endured. Bolden's memoir is a poignant and timely critique of a medical system that has often failed to recognize, understand, or adequately treat conditions affecting countless women and those living with chronic illness.

What sets "The Tiger and the Cage" apart is Bolden's ability to blend her personal experience with a broader examination of societal attitudes and systemic issues surrounding chronic pain and endometriosis. Her writing is a powerful force that dismantles the pervasive narratives that have silenced and marginalized those who suffer from these conditions. Bolden's narrative is not only about physical pain but also the emotional toll it takes and the societal pressure to conform to traditional roles and expectations, particularly around marriage and motherhood.

In this memoir, Bolden's courage in sharing her journey, from botched surgeries to pharmaceutical side effects, is nothing short of remarkable. She speaks to the hearts of countless individuals who have felt invisible and unheard in their battles with chronic pain. "The Tiger and the Cage" is a compelling call to action, urging society to acknowledge the pain, suffering, and strength of those living with chronic conditions. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a beacon of hope for those who have long yearned for their experiences to be seen and believed.

5 of 5 stars
Pub Date: 18 Oct 2022
#netgalley #thetigerandthecage #endometriosis

This was an incredibly relatable book for me to read. I was actually kind of surprised just how relatable it was going to be. Emma Bolden really does an incredible job of growing up with chronic illness and sharing her experiences.

The style was wonderful. The short chapters kept me invested and intrigued while also providing a conversational and comfortable tone.

This sucked me in from the first chapter. What an incredible debut and an incredible memoir. Five stars.

This was a hard and difficult read because of how awful the experience was for Bolden and how it points out how horrible our health care system is. We really are out there adrift and alone. Very well written

Wow! I stayed up well past my bedtime to finish this unputdownable memoir. Some of the events are difficult to read about, but so important to discuss and for people to see others in their trials. Absolutely amazing