Reassembling the Pieces will bring you to tears and have you laughing. It's an Italian American story that is both earthy and spiritual. It is a fascinating read on many levels. Dr. Susan McNally is a talented artist, a trained therapist, and a knowledgeable, dedicated Messianic Christian. Her psychological and spiritual insights are stunning. These attributes blend to make her memoir educational as well as interesting. You'll love her Italian grandmother, and feel anger at her verbally abusive mother, the one she calls, "My beloved adversary." Her life story includes authentic Italian recipes, original poetry, and an accurate description of life in Los Angeles during the 60s hippie culture, all woven into McNally's life story. McNally is self-deprecating as she describes her frequent failures, but her successes after years of verbal and emotional abuse are heartening. The original poetry at the end of each chapter provides more insight into the author, and adds emotional intensity to her story. Being encountered by God after being emotionally rejected by her biological parents is a turning point in her turbulent early life. She provides amazing insights into the roots of same-sex attraction, and effective suggestions for anyone who wants to help in this area. McNally confronts Christian churches lack of sensitivity, but refuses to abandon her faith.
