John Kelly's Reviews > Leg: The Story of a Limb and the Boy Who Grew From It

From Hidden to Heard: A Remarkable Journey of Self-Discovery and Unforgettable Family Bonds.……

Book Information

“Leg: The Story of a Limb and the Boy Who Grew From It”, written by Greg Marshall, is a 349-page memoir published on June 13, 2023. The audio version is narrated by the author and spans 9 Hours and 48 Minutes. It is worth noting that Marshall, a distinguished writer, was honored as a 2020 National Endowment for the Arts Fellow in Prose. "Leg" marks his highly anticipated debut in the literary world. Thank you to RB Media for providing me with an advance reader copy of this book for review.

Summary

Transport yourself back to the nineties through the lens of VHS tapes, and you'll witness a teenage Marshall, limping across high school stages or using a wheelchair following leg surgeries, all while grappling with confusing crushes on members of the Utah Jazz. Amidst this captivating home video footage, his mother battles cancer, tapping away at her newspaper column during chemotherapy sessions, while his father copes with ALS. Alongside them, a colorful ensemble of siblings adds to the chaos.

As the tape rolls forward, Marshall eventually finds solace and acceptance in his life as a gay man, only to realize that he has unknowingly inhabited another closet throughout his entire existence: his cerebral palsy. It is within these tangled experiences that Greg Marshall discovers an endless reservoir of wit and wisdom.

My Thoughts

"Leg: The Story of a Limb and the Boy Who Grew From It" by Greg Marshall is a remarkable memoir that explores the intersections of sexuality, disability, and family. Marshall eloquently depicts his journey of emerging from two closets, embarking on a deeply personal exploration of self.

Marshall's memoir contains a sincere portrayal of his journey of self-discovery, starting with his sexual awakening (his first closet). Within the confines of a Mormon community that may not readily embrace his true identity, he navigates the complexities of his attractions. As the narrative unfolds, we witness his maturation throughout college and beyond, observing his struggles with self-acceptance and the profound impact it has on both himself and those around him. Amidst his various relationships, we witness a mix of triumphs and potential pitfalls, serving as reminders of the challenges and rewards that come with embracing one's authentic self.

Delving into the realm of disability (his second closet—though somewhat because he didn’t even know about it), Marshall offers a poignant and thought-provoking perspective. What sets this memoir apart is the intimate portrayal of his own internal struggle with undiagnosed (to him) Cerebral Palsy, unraveling a journey of self-realization that he embarked upon without even knowing the challenges he faced. Additionally, Marshall provides a window into the lives of his family members as they confront their own battles with cancer and ALS, amplifying the emotional depth of their shared experiences.

Family lies at the heart of "Leg," and Marshall skillfully captures the complexity of familial relationships. Marshal reveals the nuances of his family's dynamics, showcasing their weirdness alongside their unwavering love and devotion. Through their stories, Marshall imparts valuable lessons about the significance of recognizing and cherishing what truly matters. This is exceedingly clear in the portions of the book that deal with his father, and his eventual decline in health suffering from ALS.

Humor is the glue that supports all of Marshal’s narratives, allowing him to approach sensitive topics with levity and grace. His ability to weave humor into the story while maintaining a respectful and heartfelt tone makes the book accessible to a wide range of readers, adding depth and relatability to his storytelling. Fair warning though, Marshall holds nothing back. While hilarious, the memoir is also raw, honest, and explicit.

Marshall's storytelling style effortlessly carries readers along his journey, immersing them in a whirlwind of experiences that encompass moments of wonder, joy, melancholy, and profound tragedy. His candid and explicit approach adds an authentic layer to the book, inviting readers to connect with his story on a deeply human level.

Recommendation

In "Leg," Greg Marshall fearlessly unveils his soul, offering a mesmerizing blend of humor, poignancy, and brilliance. This unforgettable memoir invites readers to reflect on their own identities, relationships, and the intricate tapestry of life itself. Recommended.

Rating

4 Tight Tendon Stars