I’ll Run Till the Sun Goes Down – Review

I’ll Run Till the Sun Goes Down: A Memoir About Depression and Discovering Art

Written by: David Sandum

It’s hard to know where to start with my description of this book. There is a wealth of different aspects to mention. As the title explains, David Sandum’s memoir is about his struggle with depression and the role art played throughout his difficult journey.

His story begins on the verge of his descent into the depths of mental illness. He takes you inside his own thoughts to give you a front row seat to what it feels like to slide down the rabbit hole of depression.

This book differs from many memoirs in that it includes images of artwork by David himself, as well as by other artists who were influential in his battle to cope with what life had thrown at him.

I am no stranger to how mental illness can affect a family, I have stories I could share but this is about David and his uncanny telling of his own story. I am glad he wrote so candidly. For far too long the subject has been taboo, and far too many have gone without help because people refused to talk about it.

David presents his story in such vivid detail, that I had to remind myself over and over that this wasn’t fiction – it really happened. He captures the sights, sounds, and emotions of what he went through so well that the great writers would count him among their equal.

The book is on the longer side, but I don’t think that is a negative thing. The length is necessary to show the depth and breadth of the journey traveled by people who struggle with depression. It’s important to take your time and not rush through this story. It deals with a lot of heavy, emotional issues that could overwhelm you if you move through it too quickly.

David’s memoir should be required reading for college students. I don’t know if those younger could handle the complexities of this issue, but I think once you reach college age it’s a must-read. For those suffering from depression, it will serve as a lighthouse on the dark, choppy seas, guiding you on a safe path to kindred spirits with similar struggles. For those who aren’t battling depression, it will be eye-opening, providing insight and understanding into what it’s like for those who are mentally ill. And that understanding will lead to empathy and a desire to want to help anyone caught in the crushing grip of anxiety and/or depression.

The book should also be required reading because it shows the powerful impact art has on our lives. Whether we find it in painting, writing, dancing, or whatever medium of art that speaks to us, it has the power to heal. And not to sound cheesy, but our world can use all the healing it can get. David’s book will help open people’s eyes to the importance of the arts and it could make a real difference.

I give this book:

Out of Five Ink Pens