Dealing with Demons: by Peter Michael Solstad

"I am an avid reader and read an array of genre from fiction to technical books. I would rate Dealing with Demons as the number one nonfiction book I've read since reading Undaunted Courage by Stephen Ambrose.

I make no comparison of the authors, but only to the pleasure and satisfaction I found in reading both volumes. Dealing with Demons is written in a style suited to anyone, but is most poignant to those with an eye for classic writing.

I enjoyed this book on three levels: 1) the story is compelling in that it is important and touching. Mr. Solstad bared his soul and in doing so drew me into to the time and the events he was "reliving" in his telling of them. 2) the author's style was reminiscent of the classic novels penned by Dickens and others of that era without eliciting verbosity or affectations. His language is most appropriate and a welcome change from today's norm, and 3) I was intrigued by the way the author described the lesser characters without ever divulging their names.

In doing this he seemed to build a protective barrier around them, but still made them very central to the telling of his story. I had not seen that done before and thought this helped to bring focus to Mr. Solstad's unique and brilliant style in revealing a beautiful and exquisitely painful relationship with his beloved Naiyong.

There are side stories in this book that very accurately outline common difficulties in dealing with bureaucracies and professionals who hold themselves aloof and above the common man. Trying to get satisfactory action through government agencies and/or the medical profession can be as daunting as the original difficulties for which you seek assistance. The dilemma often comes down to damned if you do and damned if you don't. Mr. Solstad clearly reveals callousness he faced from these people and the impact it had on him. It is evident the scars are still there. I share his sentiments.

I highly recommend this book as a must read for all who have challenges in our lives and that is to say everyone. As I said before, I found it compelling. At times it was joyous and at other times it was heart wrenching. Make it your next book. "

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