A Truce That Is Not Peace by Miriam Toews

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I’d read two of Canadian writer Miriam Toews’ books – the most famous one, Women Talking (upon which an award winning movie was made ) and Fight Night. I enjoyed both of them, Fight Night a little more. I wasn’t sure what to expect with A Truce that is not Peace.

This book is a memoir, written in a most unique, unusual fashion, that took me on various paths. Not chronologically written, it bounces around, back and forth, but I did not get lost. I found it fascinating, stream of consciousness writing, very emotional, and powerful. Incredible given the author’s background, and personal tragedies she has suffered (the loss of her father and older sister to suicide) — how she’s been able to navigate life, still be present for her kids and her grandchildren. It was at times so hilarious, and other times shocking. There is the mundane everyday life. And the heartbreak, especially in her use of letters and correspondence with her sister.

It all starts with the question that she is asked, as she is invited to speak at a literary conference.
“Why do you write?” How does anyone answer that?

A very creative mind, and the result is this one-of-a-kind memoir. With the most perfect title.

A solid 4 stars. Thanks to Penguin Random House Canada and the author for the ARC, it was a pleasure to read and review.



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