This is not your mother’s memoir. In The Chronology of Water, Lidia Yuknavitch expertly guides the reader through profound themes of gender, sexuality, violence, and family from her perspective as a lifelong swimmer turned artist.

Her writing delves into the very essence of memoir, tracing the impact of extreme grief on a young woman’s evolving sexuality, which some might view as unconventional due to her attraction to both men and women. Her journey as a writer unfolds simultaneously, leading her through a path of addiction, self-destruction, and ultimately, survival, culminating in the forms of love and motherhood.

The narrative is a testament to the power of self-discovery and resilience, as Yuknavitch emerges from the shadows of her past to find solace in her writing, teaching, and her new family.