Author P.K. Smitherman's latest release, 'I Think She Nose,' merges her personal experience as a cancer survivor with a collection of eight short stories that explore universal themes of resilience, friendship, and human connection. The book presents both an intimate memoir of medical struggle and broader literary narratives, creating a multifaceted work that addresses adversity from multiple angles.
Smitherman's personal journey forms a significant portion of the book, detailing her initial shock at a cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment. She describes the psychological and physical challenges of chemotherapy, including side effects like nausea, mouth sores, and hair loss. Her account emphasizes the importance of support systems, noting how she initially resisted asking for help but eventually recognized the value of community during treatment. 'In the face of cancer, everyone's journey is unique, but the importance of support remains universal,' Smitherman writes in the book.
Alongside this personal narrative, the collection includes eight short stories that complement Smitherman's themes of perseverance and human connection. 'The Younger Games' follows three former friends who reunite after 25 years apart, exploring friendship, romantic love, and forgiveness. Another story, 'A Bird in the Cul-de-Sac,' consists of fifteen parts that blend fantasy with emotional depth. 'Straight From The Horse's Mouth' tells the story of Wally, named after her grandfather Walter, who returns to her grandparents' farm after college and navigates family relationships and a connection to animals.
Additional stories include 'Hole New World,' 'My Feet Are Killing Me,' 'Picture This,' and 'Suffocating Wealth,' each offering different perspectives on human experience. Through these varied narratives, Smitherman examines themes of self-discovery, relationship challenges, and finding meaning in difficult circumstances. The author states, 'I discovered that strength isn't just about fighting cancer; it's also about accepting help and finding community.'
The book's significance lies in its dual approach to storytelling—combining raw personal experience with crafted fiction to explore how people navigate hardship. For readers facing their own challenges, whether medical or personal, Smitherman's work offers both specific insight into cancer treatment and broader reflections on resilience. The collection demonstrates how storytelling can provide comfort and perspective during difficult times, serving as what Smitherman describes as 'a beacon of hope for anyone battling their own battles.'
'I Think She Nose' will be available at major bookstores and online retailers. Readers can find more information about the author at her Facebook page, where Smitherman continues to share her message of strength and resilience through her work as an author and activist.
