Author Ariane Beeston talks about her powerful Memoir with Year 11 IB English A: Literature Class
Year 11 IB English: A Literature students had the privilege of welcoming author Ariane Beeston on a Teams chat on Friday, Week 6, to discuss her memoir “Because I Am Not Myself, You See.” Beeston’s candid account of her experience with postpartum psychosis and the way the health system supports and fails women provided students with a rare opportunity to explore mental health literature through direct conversation with its creator.
During the session, Beeston shared her personal journey through postpartum psychosis, a severe mental health condition that can develop shortly after childbirth. Her memoir details the complex emotional landscape of new motherhood complicated by mental illness and the challenging path toward recovery.
Students engaged with the material, asking thoughtful questions about Beeston’s writing process, her decision to share such personal experiences publicly, and the broader social context surrounding maternal mental health.
Beeston was genuinely impressed by the insight and maturity reflected in the students’ questions. They approached the subject with sensitivity while still asking difficult questions that made for meaningful discussion.
The author was particularly generous with her time, encouraging students to continue their exploration of the text. Beeston has offered to answer any additional questions students may have via email as they study her memoir.
This visit aligns with the IB English A: Literature curriculum’s focus on diverse perspectives and literary analysis, giving students valuable context for understanding how personal experience transforms into literature that can foster greater awareness and empathy.
Ms Mel Smith
English Teacher
