HOW WE MET: A memoir of love and other misadventures by Huma Qureshi

"But that doesn't mean that stories like mine, everyday stories of falling in love and growing up, arguing with your parents and then making up, sadness and joy and life in all its shades and nuances, the moments that give meaning to life, don't deserve to be told."

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How We Met is an absolutely beautiful memoir that brought more than one tear to my eye. Huma Qureshi talks about her experiences of love, of grief, of family, of her struggles to value herself and see her own self-worth. This book is relatable and emotional and drew me in to read it all in a single afternoon.

Qureshi's memoir details how she met her English husband Richard, who was not considered to be a suitable suitor. Not Pakistani or Muslim he technically was never a suitable match. She jumps back from their initial meeting to then discuss her upbringing in Walsall in the 1990s, her time spent in Paris and the difficulties following her father's stroke. This all serves as the backdrop as she explores her feelings, emotions and the concept of love throughout her life.

There are certainly moments of sadness in this book, but I found it so utterly comforting as at the heart of it the book is about love. Love of family, of friendships, of a partner, and also love of yourself. Huma Qureshi's struggle to find love is something I believe many of us can relate to, but ultimately the acceptance and love of ourselves is often overlooked in the process.

This book has had a lot of praise and it is honestly so beautiful. Qureshi has a collection of short stories coming out later in 2021 and I will almost certainly be looking to pick those up as her writing really drew me in. A favourite of the year for sure ✨

Thanks to publishers for the copy in exchange for a review.