"Craving Spring" by Ann Batchelder appears to be a deeply moving and heartfelt memoir that explores the complex and challenging journey of motherhood, mental health, and healing. Ann's story, as described in the book's summary, touches upon themes of love, compassion, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child.

The memoir's central focus on Ann's realization that her teenage daughter is struggling with suicidal thoughts adds a layer of urgency and depth to the narrative. Ann's determination to rescue her child and her willingness to seek wisdom and guidance from various sources, including therapy, the 12 Steps, and Buddhist teachings, speaks to her unwavering commitment to her daughter's well-being.

The connection drawn between Ann's experiences as a traumatized mother and the Greek myth of Demeter and Persephone adds a unique and intriguing dimension to the memoir. It suggests that Ann finds solace and insight in ancient stories, drawing parallels between her own life and those of mythological figures.

The memoir's emphasis on honesty, compassion, and trust highlights the importance of open communication and empathy in the face of adversity. Ann's journey to return to herself while navigating the challenges of motherhood is likely to resonate with readers who have faced similar struggles.

"Craving Spring" appears to be a poignant and emotionally resonant memoir that delves into the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, mental health, and the power of renewal. It promises to be a compelling read for those seeking a story of hope, healing, and the enduring love between a mother and her child.

Anne wanted a better relationship with her daughter, than the relationship her mother had with her. She believed she was a good mother, until her teenage daughter said she was having suicidal thoughts. Anne tries to rescue her daughter, to try and save her daughter she turns to the 12-step program, Buddhist teachings, and Greek Mythology, she learns she can't save her daughter, only her daughter can save herself. She also learns she has to face the things that had happened to her in her life.
The story, is about so much more than the relationship between mother and daughter, it is about learning things that help you realize what must happen in order for you both to want to live, a healthy life, and become who you are meant to become. At times, it is a difficult book to read, because I could see where I had done some of the same things with my daughter. They both find their path, and their journey continues on. You will have to read the book in order to find out where this part of their journey brings them to.
I received an ARC from Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles through NetGalley.

Ann Batchelder's Craving Spring follows the life of a mother with a daughter that lives with depression and addiction. Throughout the story, Batchelder retells the story of Persephone and Demeter, making small changes to better fit her and her own daughter's life. It is a lovely memoir, one that I highly recommend.

One of my favorite things in this story is that it's not just a story about the daughter. We see Batchelder go through her own experiences with mental health and overcoming codependency. As the story goes on, we begin to understand why she reacts to her daughter's habits the way she does. Another thing I enjoy is how much love shines through the pages and how it never feels like one of those narratives where the parent thinks of their child as a burden/wants everybody else to feel that way as well.

With touching insights, poignant commentary, and a whole lot of love, Craving Spring is a wonderful read for anybody.

I received an ARC of this story from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much to NetGalley and Legacy Books Press, LLC.

This was the first book that I have read in memoir form that draws on a myth to show comparisons between a mom and her daughter. I'm not sure I totally am a fan of it but I appreciate the author's skill and expertise in trying to do something different. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. Four stars.