By the Time You Read This
The Space between Cheslie's Smile and Mental Illness—Her Story in Her Own Words
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4.5 • 33 Ratings
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- $13.99
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- $13.99
Publisher Description
By the Time You Read This is the story former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst was about to publish before her tragic suicide. Her mother, April, wraps up the narrative by exploring the mental illness and depression that took her daughter’s life.
The text read, “By the time you get this . . .” This is the story of Cheslie Kryst, a former Miss USA, in her own words.
When the world awoke on the morning of January 30, 2022, many were shocked to learn of the tragic death of former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst.
For most people, the news was unfathomable. How could a young woman in the prime of her life—a pageant queen, accomplished attorney, Extra correspondent, and tireless advocate for charity organizations—have been lost to the world so suddenly?
By the Time You Read This shares the manuscript Cheslie wrote before her passing, her story in her own words—from the highest highs of passing two bar exams, winning Miss USA, and beginning an exciting career as an entertainment journalist to the lowest lows of heartbreak, betrayal, and persistent depression.
When Cheslie’s mother, April Simpkins, picks up the narrative, she shares for the first time what she experienced in the aftermath of Cheslie’s suicide. When faced with such a devastating loss, how does a mother find a way to carry on?
Whether you are someone who struggles to maintain your mental health, or you love someone who does, this book will share insight into a reality that impacts thousands of families every year—as well as provide hope for those who are left behind.
Net proceeds from the book will be used to support the Cheslie C. Kryst Foundation, which is being founded in Cheslie’s honor.
APPLE BOOKS REVIEW
A grieving mother finishes her late daughter’s memoir in this heartbreaking look at mental illness and the ripple effects of suicide. Former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst had been working on a manuscript recounting her unusual life—one marked by both dazzling achievements and a hidden battle with depression. Kryst’s own words paint a bittersweet portrait of a vibrant young woman quietly struggling every day with immense inner turmoil. After she tragically succumbed to her illness, Kryst’s mother, April Simpkins, found the manuscript and continued the story, vulnerably exploring her own experience of unimaginable loss. This unflinching read offers deep insight and immense solace to anyone who’s struggled with mental illness or with terrible loss.
Customer Reviews
Healed Heart
I have been waiting for this book since the day I found out it was coming out. I preordered it and waited patiently. And it took me sometime to read it but 100/100 recommend.
I have been a fan of Cheslie and always will be. I just a few years younger than her have so many things in common with her. I want to say that she helped save my life. Two weeks after her passing she gave me the courage to speak to my family about my mental health struggles. I cried for days after she passed. I mourned an idol and someone I wanted to be in the room with. I have had this book sitting because it was hard for me to open. But I finally found the heart to open and read the final words of someone who I truly look up to even to this day though she’s gone.
Mrs. April if you see this. Thank you for sharing her story, your story. From a SC 30 year old woman who needed healing ❤️ her light will never be forgotten.