Despite appearing to have it all, author Blue Andrews struggled with inner turmoil and ultimately attempted suicide. In a moment of desperation, he attempted to take his own life, waking up in a hospital psych ward with the physical evidence of his turmoil etched onto his skin. Ultimately Andrews chose to fight for his life, to strive for health and happiness. CHOOSING LIFE (One man’s journey through alcoholism and depression to wellness and self-discovery) is the powerful tale of the author’s journey towards healing, contentment, and self-discovery. He bares his soul, sharing what it’s like to feel lost even when surrounded by love and opportunity. And through his personal anecdotes, he offers a beacon of hope and guidance for others struggling with similar challenges.

In sharing his story, Andrews doesn’t shy away from discussing difficult or painful experiences, from the bleak circumstances leading to his suicide attempt to his struggle to maintain sobriety despite the crushing weight of depression. In some ways, the most difficult parts of this process to read are not the most painful but the most tedious—the succession of AA meetings, counseling sessions, and the slow, steady work of restructuring one’s life. Andrews relates it all with straightforward honesty, and the result is a raw, real, and relatable book that will stay with readers long after they have finished reading. One of the most striking themes in Andrews’ memoir is the importance of choice in shaping our lives. Throughout CHOOSING LIFE, Andrews grapples with difficult decisions and the consequences of those choices, ultimately realizing that we have the power to shape our destiny. It’s a particularly resonant theme in today’s world, where we are continually told that our circumstances are beyond our control. Andrews’s story is a powerful reminder that we have agency in our own lives and the ability to create the future we want.

Andrews’s prose is fluid and engaging, with a strong narrative voice that carries the reader through the story. The syntax and structure of the book are well-crafted, allowing for an easy and enjoyable reading experience. And his use of symbolism and imagery throughout the memoir—the recurring motif of the ocean and its tides—serves as a powerful metaphor for the ebb and flow of Andrews’ journey, and adds an extra layer of depth to his narrative.

Recommended for readers grappling with self-acceptance and mental health issues, Blue Andrews’ CHOOSING LIFE is a powerful and inspiring memoir that will leave a lasting impression with its timeless, universal themes of choice, self-discovery, and resilience.

~Edward Sung for IndieReader