The Backwards Hand by Matt Lee

Rating:

4 Stars

Themes:

Non-Fiction, Memoir, Disability

Thoughts:

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is a new approach to memoirs for me with history about disability and disabled people being mixed in among the pieces on Lee’s own experience. I liked just how much detail on the Aktion T4 programme was covered as from what I’ve seen it is a little known part of the atrocities committed by the Nazi’s. It was also interesting to have the bits on ‘The monster’ since many in society still see those who have visible or physical disabilities as monsters. I also liked the comparison of fictional villains who have been portrayed with disabilities since it is still used today and is often eaten up by consumers but further stigmatises us and I see it as a lazy and overused device. I did find myself a little thrown at some points when it went from a darker piece of history to a piece of Lee’s more modern life but it does just highlight the discrepancies in the differences of treatment and those areas that unfortunately haven't changed as much as they should. I did like the last paragraph as it showed how those mentioned already in the book died or were killed which is especially important in regards to those involved with Aktion T4.

Favourite Quote:

“Disability is the great equalizer. It is a community that does not discriminate, does not see color, gender, or class. Anyone can join, at any time.”

With thanks to Northwestern University Press and Netgalley for my advanced digital copy of this book.

Comments

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