The Double Bind-What on Earth Was Real?

[carres1973]

I just finished reading The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian. Has anyone else read this book? I found it very strange. After reading and even re-reading parts, I am not sure how much (all?) of the story was part of the main characters psychoses.

For those of you who have read it, what do you think? Did the attack happen and then she "split" or is some of the story indeed true mixed with her psychosis and the story she is writing?

Carrie

 

[NurseMommy]

Hi! It's been a while since I've read it, but my impression was that the attack was real, and she did "split," as a coping strategy -- so what she remembers is real for her, though different from the real facts.

I love Chris B's writing. If you haven't read Midwives, I'd recommend it.

Allison

 

[thebrain]

I just finished this book last night, and had to get up the first thing in the morning and at least re-read the parts about Pamela Buchanan Marshfield. I am also not sure what is real and what was made up by the main character. A benefactor named Pamela Buchanan Marshfield does donate alot of money to the homeless shelter and she does seem to want the photos. I think. I don't know. I thought it was a great book, but if I was to go back and re-read the entire novel, I would hope, with hind-sight, that it would be clear what was true and what was made-up as a result of Lauren's illness.

I know the OP posted this thread a while back, but I finally got to read it and wanted to comment! I do think this book could easily be made into an intriguing screen play!

Aimee