Two Stories with Uncanny Similarities

One is a memoir, and the other is a novel.

I recently read Lisa Benson’s debut memoir,

Where Have I Been All My Life?, and was struck with the similarities between the story Lisa portrayed in her book and the one I described for my protagonist, Anji, in my debut novel, Lonely Dove.

Where Have I Been All My Life? is so good, I read it in one day. Lisa opened the book with a heart-felt intention for us to resonate with her story and “feel less alone,” and she delivered it beautifully. Lisa expertly drew from different moments of her life to illustrate the lessons she learned along the way. She started with what already seemed like a big “issue,” and slowly peeled the layers to show deeper “issues” and thus deeper insights.

My heart went out to Lisa as she described facing the people in her life who contributed to making her feel less than or not enough. There were so many times I cringed and wanted to punch people in the face. I was so happy for the many other moments I was able to cheer alongside Lisa as she uncovered more truth and wisdom, and shed more burden.

It’s clear, from this memoir, that we are a result of the accumulation of our experiences. Lisa shared how she accumulated these nuggets of wisdom, and how she learned to trust herself, her inner guidance, and reclaim her life.

The similarities between Lisa’s book and mine are at times, uncanny. Reading Lisa’s story sent shivers through me. There are a countless amount of parallels in both stories: failed relationships, abusive relationships, twin flames, a parent moving the stick on what it means to be a grown-up (for Lisa) or to have a boyfriend (for Anji), the role that spirituality plays in life, and so much more. Ultimately, both books are stories of self-development and self-discovery.

Lisa took us on a journey of how she reclaimed herself, her beauty, her purpose, and her being. Her book is inspirational and motivational. I rooted for Lisa as she shared her experiences. In sharing her story, she shares a deep perspective that can help anyone transform their life. Now, I am inspired to do the same for myself, and shed those final bits of me that have been holding me back.

I invite you to get a copy of Lisa’s book, Where Have I Been All My Life?.

And, to get a copy of my book, Lonely Dove.