In this innovative memoir, Deborah Harding examines trauma and its lasting impact.
When she was 14, Harding was abducted at knifepoint, assaulted and left to die. She shifts between the past and present to tell the story of this traumatic 4 hours, along side the story of growing up with her abusive mother. She examines the impact of each of these things on her life, her choices as an adult and her mental health.
Though I have read other memoirs which cover similar topics to Dancing with the Octopus, I found this one unique. Harding's choice to tell the story in a non-linear fashion gives a real insight into the way a trauma you thought long gone can affect your later life and your family relationships. The story of her mothers behaviour is sad but Harding discusses with great insight, intelligence and compassion the effects it had on her family, and especially on her relationship with her father, who turned a blind eye to the abuse.
Harding also writes about her abductor, and how in an attempt to deal with the trauma as an adult she seeks restorative justice. I found her bravery in this section of the book awe inspiring.
At times heartbreaking, this memoir is an absolute must read

Deborah's story is one that will stay with me for a long time. Her extreme bravery and openness are great examples of how we deal with things as humans. Her writing is clear yet full of emotion, the narrative structure is presented in a well thought out way that keeps giving the more you read it.

Thank you Deborah for putting your story into the world.