‘Beyond a Lifequake: A Memoir’ is the story of grit, determination, and the power of human connections to help us keep at it when we are at our lowest. Through this memoir, readers will accompany Tarini on her journey of recovering from life-altering trauma. A journey including rigorous rehabilitation, overcoming several insecurities in adjusting to her new reality, and eventually achieving her original dream of graduating from Yale University’s School of Management.

The book begins on the day Tarini, a bright young woman in her early 20s, is caught in a tragic motorbike-taxi accident in Kampala, Uganda. Her oversight of not wearing a helmet led to her suffering a severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). During the three comatose months, flashbacks take readers to moments, demonstrating why Tarini loves her life, the boundless possibilities it contains, and will wonder what these moments tell us about what comes next. 

From a cushy Wall Street job, she had recently moved to Uganda to work at BRAC, a global nonprofit in the development sector. She had planned to spend a year working in Uganda and then apply to graduate school in the US. However, the author’s aspirations are cut short by her injury, as she doesn’t awaken for three long months. Regaining consciousness is just the beginning of her arduous journey towards reclaiming life. Every step is a hurdle, from re-learning how to walk and speak to navigating the world with new and enduring disabilities.

With the backing of her village composed of her family, friends, medical professionals and numerous other human connections, despite all the challenges she encounters, Tarini experiences moments of pure joy as well. In the process, she remains determined to live out her potential.

The chronicle of Tarini’s journey of recovery transcends borders and cultures, weaving a tapestry of resilience, perseverance, hope, and community, spanning three continents, and offering readers a unique perspective on the human experience. Her story is a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity, and find meaning in life, inspiring readers from all walks of life to stay strong in the face of loss.