This title was archived before I had a chance to download it to be read so unfortunately I was not able to read it and give feedback.

Hearing this very personal story in the voice of the author made it feel like you were learning this story from someone that I was befriending in real life. Nobody tells you the ugly truths that go along with getting cancer, not just the medical truths but the mental struggles, the dashed hopes, and the thoughts you are left to work through by yourself. I was completely engrossed in Manjusha's story. Her humor is subtle but present even during times of despair. I wish the story that was saved for the epilogue had been woven throughout and contributed to the structure of the story in some way.

Oh boy, this book hits hard. Heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, Manjusha Pawagi's memoir is about trying to find peace amidst cancer treatment.

I fell in love with the concept of this highly personal book; the author's cancer diagnosis and her husband's illness were certainly devastating, but then the cover is so colorful and full of joy. Even the title says Love and Laughter. Indeed, Pawagi talks about ways of becoming/learning to be happy even when there seems to be little hope.

Ultimately, I think this is a wonderful book for people who either struggle with serious illness themselves or have a loved one who do. It will teach them to be more supportive in the time of need. However, I personally had a hard time with it because despite funny moments, it is a very devastating subject the author discusses, and due to the current situation in the world, I probably should have looked for something light instead.

*Thank you to the Publisher for a free advance copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

Could someone email me the paperwork to nominate a saint? I’m going to be the first one to nominate Simon. Anybody to second my nomination? (Yes. I know the author/ Manjusha Pawagi is an atheist.)

There is quite of complaining about complainers. Reread section 11 where the author writes “we choose to be happy”.

Yes, there are some funny lines; especially if you like dry sarcasm.

Chapter 18/section 19 Poor Simon (the husband) also had surgery to have his thyroid removed with pre-cancerous cells in the midst Manjusha’s stem cell transplant preparation. I don’t recall any follow up on Simons thyroid and I wonder if he had any challenges and how he is doing. Simon meticulously writes down Manjusha’s medicines; in Manjusha’s journal she is listing potential vacation destinations. The authors focus is constantly only entirely on her.

Chapter 17/Section 18 indicates that there were a couple potential stem cell matches 9 ; but the donor said that they told him that he was the only match.

An Advance Read copy of Love and Laughter in the Time of Chemotherapy was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you. The audio version was review; it was read by the author Manjusha Pawagi, who did a great job narrating.