Reviews / Mentions
A Globe and Mail top 100 Book of 2014
Winner 2015 British Columbia National Award for Canadian Non-Fiction
“Karyn L. Freedman’s terrifying and shattering story, One Hour in Paris, reveals the devastating truth about rape — that it is not confined to one terrible moment, but it determines and shapes a lifetime. If you want to understand why we need to do everything in our power to end rape, read this book.”
Eve Ensler, author of The Vagina Monologues
“The most harrowing book of the season…”
Toronto Life
“One Hour in Paris is a brave book, and an important one.”
Toronto Star
“Philosopher Freedman’s forthright, deep analysis of her path to recovery after her harrowing rape at age 22. Vital reading for addressing the aftermath of sexual violence and challenging rape culture.”
Globe and Mail
“I’ve just finished the first five chapters and they’re brilliant.”
Dave Bidini, National Post
“…the most salient message in One Hour in Paris is one of hope.”
The Winnipeg Review
“[a] story of the audacity of courage in the face of trauma, a brave and moving book that deserves to be read by audiences at large.”
Quill and Quire (starred review)
“In her brave and compelling memoir, the professor of philosophy uses her keen intellect and in-depth knowledge of trauma to unravel the complexity of rape, and to make sense of the imprint it has made on her life, and on the lives of so many others.”
National Post
“It is a short and forthright book, lit with insight and often with compassion, in which Freedman describes the 20 years of her journey toward recovery.”
Literary Review of Canada
“[a] brilliant, brave and soul-searing account…”
Winnipeg Free Press
“You were raped. You are going to have to live in spite of it. How wonderful that Freedman crafted this piece of assistance, a kind of healing drug.”
Heather Mallick Toronto Star
“The frank discussion in this book is valuable for those interested in social justice as well as to survivors, their loved ones, and mental health professionals.”
Library Journal (starred review)
“No need to issue a caution for Karyn L. Freedman’s stunning One Hour in Paris: A True Story of Rape and Recovery (University of Chicago Press). The trigger warning is wired right into the title.”
Inside Higher Ed
“I am sure that survivors of sexual violence, and those working with them, will find this a useful and insightful book.”
Times Higher Education (Book of the Week)
“I would recommend this book to any person that has experienced rape or sexual violence. It can also be of great use in the classroom when discussing sexual violence and rape.”
Metapsychology
“If there is any justice, Karyn L. Freedman’s memoir, One Hour in Paris: A True Story of Rape and Recovery, will be widely celebrated as one of the best Canadian nonfiction titles of 2014.”
Pickle Me This
“One Hour in Paris is a gripping and courageous read; the writing is also graceful and accessible. Equally fascinating is Freedman’s focus on the field of trauma studies and discussion of “the nature and reliability of traumatic memories.””
the Coastal Spectator
“Freedman’s work is honest and often profound in its exploration of personal trauma and ongoing recovery, and sensitive to the range and diversity of women’s experiences.”
Alberta Views
“Freedman’s book a crucial read for all.”
Daily Herald Tribune
