Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

Christina H. Wilson shares her life story in Believe: A Memoir in Stories, beginning with a childhood and adolescence marked by illness and the uniqueness of family, and shyness through her teen years. Her time at Hood College helped her gain independence and confidence, where she also experienced her first serious relationship and traveled abroad. She describes meeting Jeffrey, whose addictive behaviors and generosity shaped their life together. They had two sons and married in Israel after years of living together. Jeffrey’s career in day trading brought financial success but also led to frequent absences and ongoing problems. Following a serious car accident, Jeffrey suffered a brain injury, and Wilson took on his medical care and caregiving responsibilities. Despite all efforts, Jeffrey’s condition declined, and he passed away. Wilson details supporting her children through this loss while coping with the impact of 9/11 during the same period.

Christina H. Wilson’s Believe is an eloquent and heartfelt memoir that leans beautifully into the realities of family, loss, and healing from her own unique perspective. Her conversational delivery is clear and honest, including the wonderful moments, such as the birth of her son Jacob during a difficult time, and the harder ones, like Jeffrey’s severe car accident in Costa Rica, which all provide tangible glimpses into pivotal life events. Wilson’s depiction of grief is relatable for those of us who have been through it, and her having to let go of and say farewell to Jeffrey, and later to her father in his final days in hospice care, is not easy to read. Still, Wilson balances it out in personal anecdotes that overflow with hope and connection, including unexpected visits from loved ones beyond the physical realm. Wilson’s ability to convey intimate experiences with warmth and sincerity creates a memorable read that encourages reflection on love, acceptance, and the power of family bonds.