Split

"Michael Swartz's gritty novel explores the horrors of learning to survive in a dysfunctional family while battling a unique medical diagnosis. Ethan's internal conflict leads to unpredictable mood swings and identity confusion. You can feel the raw pain and emotion."-Katrina Mackrides, author of The Salty Swan and The Crows Know

"Split is a gripping novel that will keep you turning pages-and questioning the boundaries of identity-until the very last word."-Deborah Jeanne Weitzman, author of The Sinking of the Leonardo da Vinci

"Reading Michael Swartz's brilliant new novel, Split, put me back in touch with several of the most tormenting dimensions of youth: the brutality of the schoolyard bully, fear of the emerging self, and doubts regarding the limits of human endurance, forgiveness, and redemption. Utilizing his medical experience, Swartz probes these issues through the use of the biological anomaly of a young, human chimera, endowed not with one set of DNA but two. In a fast-paced tale of the struggles between light and darkness, Split takes the reader on a climactic ride from love and security to betrayal and its consequences. The future . . . chosen or predetermined? You decide."-Jim Gulledge, author of Green Forest, Red Earth, Blue Sea

"Everyone in Split is fighting some kind of battle-in school, at home, in the heart and head, in warfare in foreign lands. Events change lives, sometimes catastrophically. A deeply moving reminder that we need each other to survive. Michael Swartz has written a painfully beautiful story that moves with the speed of a racing heart. Split is a master class in complex family drama, reminiscent of Pat Conroy and Wally Lamb."-Ron DeChristoforo, author of This Way Out

"Split is a compelling story that explores the challenges and intricacies of discovering and accepting one's true self during adolescence when born as a human chimera, a fascinating genetic phenomenon. This well-crafted and engaging narrative emphasizes the debate over the importance of genetics versus the influence of family, culture, and life experiences in shaping one's personality, along with the emotional and psychological impact of understanding one's genetic makeup when lacking adequate professional and emotional support. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys pondering meaningful stories."-Marie-Claude Gingras, author of No Stones Left Unturned