The Selfless Act of Breathing is the lyrically-written story of Michael Kabongo, a Congolese-Brit, battling mental health challenges after experiencing a loss. He decides to travel to the US for “one last adventure.” Michael is not sure he wants to live, and this book digs deep into his inner thoughts and turmoil.

Told between the past set in London and the present in the US, this story goes there in terms of depression and suicide. What stands out most is how a dark, taboo topic can be written about in a beautiful, poetic style. Maybe books like this one will help dispel taboos regarding mental health and mental illness?

Michael’s story is a richly emotional journey, and it’s a bit open-ended in ways, which will allow the reader to reflect and come to their own conclusions.

I received a gifted copy.

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