Finding Connection in Gather Me by Glory Edim: A Journey Through Words and Life
“I grew to understand there are numerous ways to express love. Sometimes it is a spoonful of rice or warm glass of milk before bed.”
A e-ARC copy of the book has been provided by the publisher, Penguin Random House International, in exchange for an honest review.
It's hard to know where to begin with a review of this book. You might think the natural place is at the beginning of the story, but the sheer depth of relatability in this work makes it overwhelming—in the best possible way.
Every reader’s journey into books begins differently. Some, like me, might start with those simple 10-peso books sold near schools or at the market, which doubled as coloring books and storybooks. Others, like Glory Edim, may have been captivated by stories read to them by a parent, finding themselves drawn into the magic of words from an early age.
There’s something truly special about finding yourself in a story. Often, we read for enjoyment, but every so often, a character resonates deeply with us. They face the same struggles, joys, or quirks, and that recognition becomes profoundly personal. It’s in those moments that fiction feels less like escapism and more like a shared understanding—proof that you’re not alone. And that’s exactly what Gather Me does so beautifully.
What stood out most to me was the way Edim paced her narrative. It felt unsettling, but in a meaningful way, as she began with the raw and formative experiences of her childhood. This approach created an immediate connection, drawing readers into her story with openness and vulnerability. The way she ended her book—with the birth of her own child—completed a poignant cycle of life, tying everything together in a way that felt both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Books are essential, not just as sources of knowledge or entertainment, but as lifelines to new worlds, shared experiences, and, sometimes, much-needed solace. Gather Me isn’t just the story of a woman finding purpose in reading and writing; it’s a powerful reminder that even in our loneliest, darkest moments, we are never truly alone.