Loving Tiara is a memoir written by the mother of a young girl afflicted with a condition known as Tuberous Sclerosis. If it were a novel, it would no doubt be classified as a Tragedy. Since the events and characters are true, the memoir illuminates the endurance and strength of the human spirit that lies within everyone. The thoughtful reader will find that this book, though written in simple, straightforward prose, evokes larger existential issues.The author is a middle class woman, living in the relative affluence of coastal Orange County in California during the 1990s. When her second daughter evidences strange behavior as an infant, she and her husband have their lives turned inside out when young Tiara is diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder known as Tuberous Sclerosis. Tiara’s condition falls within the worst area of the syndrome’s spectrum. The prognosis is grim say the doctors; multiple tumors will develop throughout her body and brain causing severe behavioral anomalies, learning disorders, autism, epilepsy and seizures of every description. The condition is incurable and only marginally treatable, as the Goffs soon discover.The events that unfold afterwards are truly remarkable. The tale of young Tiara’s life and her mother’s inexhaustible love is nothing short of riveting.Ms. Goff’s style of writing is easy to read and uncomplicated. At first, it almost seems too light to carry such a serious tale but as the book unfolds, this style becomes a strength. It allows the powerful story line and characters to take center stage where they shine brilliantly. The most compelling of these characters turn out to be Goff herself as she takes the reader along with herself and Tiara on their impossible search for hope. Finally, she invites us to share her deepest thoughts and emotions through simple honesty and everyday language. One is left in wonder at the power of the human spirit.This is a gem of a book whose facets will shine in your mind long after the final page is read.Michael Miller, author of the Pacific Bloodlines Trilogy, soon to be released
