She Smiles and Cries: Reflections 1

"She Smiles and Cries" is a memoir about Author Inshirah Aleem's severe episode with Bipolar Disorder. The author parallels personal works of poetry with powerful writing to highlight the darkest times of her life. A period of time where she is afflicted with hallucinations, paranoia and a catatonic state that seizes her consciousness. Author Inshirah Aleem also provides a glimpse into challenges with family dynamics, medical treatment and her teenage peer group. If readers have dealt with a seemingly hopeless circumstance, they will easily relate to her story. Her memoir captures the possibility for us all to rise above pain... to smile after we cry.