Prozac Nation

This is a memoir of 26-year-old Elizabeth Wurtzel, about 10 years of her life dealing with a chronic clinical depression.

At first glance, it might seem to some readers that this is Wurtzel’s way or ‘excuse’ to whine. But in truth, this memoir actually paints a very honest picture of a person dealing with this disease. The author also stated that her main intent in writing this memoir is to let others know and understand how it is dealing with her disorder. She also stated that she wants people to understand and differentiate between a diagnosis of a clinical depression as opposed to someone who is lousy, and sad all the time.

Personally, I found this a really interesting, honest, and revealing book. I found her writing to be engaging, simply because the way she talks is marked by the younger generation. I felt that it was easy because it was like talking to a friend, but I could see how maybe a much younger AND older generation will not find this book easy to relate to.

It might come off initially that the author is taking the chance to whine and be sarcastic but in truth, this is a way to understand people that are dealing with depression. The writing was a little bit self-indulgent at times, even coming off as narcissistic.

Would I recommend it?

I will tell you that this is one of those books that it’s either you like it or you don’t. It is definitely not your traditional kind of novel, and that is why sometimes, it could be a little hard to get through this. Just cut the author some slack, try to read it for its honesty, and imagine yourself in her place instead. Maybe that will make the book a great read for you.

After You'd Gone

After reading this novel, I can officially say that Maggie O’ Farrell is one of my favorite authors. She is such a great story teller. I have read all of her books, and loved each one. This book, however, is my absolute favorite from her.

After You’d Gone is a story about Alice Reikkes and her attempted suicide. She is lying on the bed, comatose, with sisters and her parents Ann and Ben, watching her, wondering why she did it. Was it an accident, intentional? If so, why? What were her reasons?

And so the book goes on containing three different narratives, telling their different thoughts and emotions. One from Ann’s mother-in-law, second from Anne, and the third from Alice herself. The transitions made in this book can be slightly confusing, but I think that’s just the point. Everything is unsure, unknown. Most revelations and stories are surprising and revolting.

It is crazy to think about what Alice is going through, and what her family is going through as well. The plot is dark, sometimes very dark. It’s a bit depressing if you think about it, knowing these kind of things happen in real life. The author touches on such sensitive subjects with such credibility, respect, and truth that you can not help but feel these characters’ emotions. Her writing is truly a work of art, as she pieces the stories together, giving us the conclusion the beautiful story deserves. Beautifully written!

A story of love, loss, and the truth; The book is heartbreaking, beautiful, satisfying, depressing, and uplifting all at the same time; everything a book should be.