The Measure of Darkness

Features the same real, rare neurological disorder as bestselling novelist and neuroscientist Lisa Genova (Still Alice) did in Left Neglected. While Genova is described as “equal parts Jennifer Weiner and Merck Manual” (National Post), Durcan—also a practicing neuroscientist—is, as critics of his first novel noted, more of a cross between John le Carré and Oliver Sacks.

Brings attention to “neglect syndrome,” a serious disorder that creates a bizarre paradox for patients who, unable to recognize their loss, proceed as if entire portions of their world do not exist (objects, people, even their own body parts).

Illuminates how life-altering brain injuries can be for patients and families, while showing readers what it feels like to suffer from such a disorienting condition. Durcan’s novel also offers a deeply reflective look at the moral dilemma of suicide and the role genetics plays in the lives of siblings.

Encompasses subjects ranging from the fall of Detroit and families estranged in the aftermath of the Vietnam War to the root of artistic desire and creative ambition.

Author’s first novel was a Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers selection and recipient of the Crime Writers of Canada Arthur Ellis Best First Novel Award.