David Cariens
Author - Advocate
About my latest book: Escaping Madness
“And once the storm is over, you won’t remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won’t even be sure whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in. That’s what this storm’s all about.” – Haruki Murakami
Growing up, I was always able to express myself most through my writing. But, it wasn’t until 2018 that I finally listened to my inner voice and challenged myself to write my memoir. It took me almost three years to finish the book, and it was a life-changing experience.
Am I glad I did? Yes, but I never realized how difficult writing about myself would be, and the misgivings I would have telling this story.
I’m fortunate to have translated my ability to write into a successful career. I always strive to learn and develop my literary style and voice, approaching every challenge I come across as an experience to grow and develop as a writer.
It is not a gloom and doom story, but the journey I took to overcome the obstacles my family encountered. In the end, I came out a better person, one who understand the storm.
To find out more or to discuss a potential project, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Reviews
It is good Dave. Anytime a writer can produce a book the reader doesn’t want to put down it is a winner. You have a winner in this book. I am very much enjoying it. Thanks for sharing it. Glad you added pictures of your parents. They were a gorgeous couple
Heartbreaking memoir
It’s intriguing, dramatic and heartrending! David Cariens’ new book, “Escaping Madness: Alcoholism, Mental Illness Murder,” (High Tide Publications, 155 pgs., $13.99) is not an easy read. It’s a life story —an unconventional memoir — and full of important side stories about a family in a turmoil, not realized until years after the events.
Cariens, who lived in Williamsburg for a few years before retiring to Kilmarnock, has opened his heart, his mind and his own failings to give the reader an understanding of the worth of life. His own strength and openness is apparent in this saga.
His mother and brother had a traumatic relationship due to their mental illness and their lack of understanding of what had happened to them. Their relationship was never resolved and would devastate their family for years.
Cariens, with the help of his wife, has been able to wrestle with, as the title says, mental illness, alcoholism and even the murder of his oldest grandchild. And he has overcome.
The recommendation to read this comes with a warning. It may awaken some of your own interself repressions. Nevertheless, take the gamble. Wilford Kale
Escaping Madness is a "must" read. It is an inspiration to all that face tragedies and heartbreak in their life. The author's insights and memories add humor and respite. I couldn't put it down. Wonderful ! Richard Saxer, retired educator
When I began reading Escaping Madness, I couldn’t put it down! David Cariens book is raw, riveting and from the heart. It touched me in so many ways.