I found Adam and Maya's relationship to be one of the most realistic high school relationships I have read in YA, and a very healthy one at that. Adam's story touched my heart and related to my own experiences in such a wonderful way.Īnother big positive of this novel for me is the main relationship. I am thoroughly pleased with the representation in this novel. There is currently no medical cure for schizophrenia and that is reflected in the story, but it still ends with a message of hope and perseverance. I especially loved how things are wrapped up at the end of the story. The authors explains the difference between positive and negative symptoms, notes some of the side effects of real drugs used to treat this illness (despite the fact that this book centers around a completely fictional drug), and debunks many of the harmful stereotypes surrounding schizophrenia countless times throughout the novel. I also appreciated the author's effort to not only show readers how schizophrenia manifests for certain people, but also to inform readers on the illness in general. I feel his position can be summed up with, "I understand that what is in front of me is a hallucination and not visible to anyone else, but it does not change the fact that I do see it and it is extremely disruptive" which is a very unique, but very real, way to display how some experience this disorder. Adam is extremely self-aware which is often a rare commodity in mental health novels, but is was a strong element of the story. In my opinion, this story stands out from other novels dealing with this disorder as we follow a main character who is able to distinguish between their hallucinations and reality due to their current position in treatment while still suffering the debilitating effects of this illness. I really adored the portrayal of schizophrenia in this story. He strikes the correct balance between suffering and humor which made the story immensely enjoyable. I adored Adam's voice - He is unfiltered and expressive through every chapter.
I admit, it was strange at first (I mean, how often does the narrator get angry at the READER?) but it became very natural by the end of the story. While most journal/diary novels are directed at the journal itself or anyone who is reading it, Adam's passages are directed at one specific person, therefore, the reader somewhat assumes the role of his therapist.
It took me a bit to adjust to the storytelling method. Words on Bathroom Walls is told through journal entries Adam is writing to his therapist, as he remains non-verbal during their sessions. A funny, honest, and relatable read depicting what it's like to live with mental illness. I'm so pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this book.
0 kommentar(er)
