“I read Consumed, the debut book from Guardian theatre critic Arika Akbar, by chance this year and it absolutely captivated me. I’ve since gifted it to countless friends. The memoir centres on Akbar’s elder sister, Fauzia, who became engulfed in an inexplicable medical mystery in 2016.

“After months of experiencing mysterious chest pains, night sweats, inflamed lungs and face swellings, Fauzia was taken to hospital and put into an induced coma. It elevates itself beyond the usual blueprint of a grief memoir to paint a sensitive portrait of sisterhood, dysfunctional family dynamics, identity and the redemptive power of art.

“While raw pain and guilt simmers through the book, it’s also a soulful celebration of sisterly camaraderie and a loving quest by Akbar to immortalise her sister.”

Alex Sims, Acting Commissioning Editor Digital

How To Love A Jamaican by Alexia Arthurs

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