Book Review: A New New Me by Helen Oyeyemi
When I first heard about Helen Oyeyemi’s A New New Me, I was immediately drawn in by the concept of a woman living with multiple personalities, each with distinct quirks and narratives. As someone fascinated by the complexities of the human mind, I couldn’t resist diving into this unhinged and surreal exploration of identity and trauma. Trust me, this book doesn’t just tell a story; it plunges you into the chaos of a fractured mind, inviting you to experience the world through the lenses of its unique characters.
At the heart of the novel is Kinga Sikora, who shares her life with six alternate versions of herself—each occupying a specific day of the week, from the diligent Kinga-A on Mondays to the elusive Kinga-G on Sundays. Each Kinga not only has a unique personality but also individual routines, desires, and even jobs, weaving a tapestry of daily life that is both absurd and familiar. The sheer creativity of Oyeyemi’s structure, allowing us to hop between these distinct voices, was both exhilarating and, at times, disorienting. At one point, I found myself chuckling at the absurdity of one Kinga devising a strategy to counter the consequences of another’s junk food binge—something that feels incredibly relatable in its own chaotic way!
The novel is anchored by a central mystery: Kinga-A discovers a man tied up in their storage room, sparking a thrilling arc of suspense that trickles through each chapter. Who is he, and which Kinga is responsible for his presence? This unfolding enigma kept me on my toes, though the paths to resolution were often convoluted. Oyeyemi masterfully captures the essence of dissociative identity disorder, presenting a narrative that doesn’t promise clarity but rather immerses readers in Kinga’s tumultuous existence. This chaos is a metaphor—a reflection of how trauma can fracture a person into many pieces to cope and survive.
Oyeyemi’s writing is a blend of stark honesty and imaginative surrealism, pulling you into an experience that feels almost dream-like. The chapters echo with the varied voices of each Kinga, capturing a palpable difference in tone. However, I’ll admit that the frequent shifts could sometimes be disorienting. I found myself yearning for a more coherent narrative flow, especially since I was so invested in unearthing the mystery surrounding the tied-up man and the potential betrayals among the Kingas.
One particular highlight for me was the way Oyeyemi illustrated the existing contracts between the Kingas. Their detailed journaling not only serves as a tool for communication but also as a lifeline—a desperate measure to maintain semblance in a world that often neglects those living with mental disorders. Kinga’s struggle was both painful and poignant, revealing how she navigates a society that doesn’t always understand her needs.
In conclusion, A New New Me is an essential read for those willing to trek through the intricacies of mental health as portrayed through a lens of creativity and sincerity. It’s a beautiful yet unsettling journey that might resonate with readers who appreciate narratives that challenge conventional storytelling. If you’re willing to embrace confusion and chaos in the quest for understanding, you’ll find moments of brilliance within the pages. While I emerged from this read unsure of all the connections, I cherished the exploration and insight it offered on surviving trauma in a fractured world.