Books Like...

"Everyone in This Room Will Someday be Dead" by Emily R. Austin follows the story of a late 20s atheist lesbian dealing with severe depression and anxiety who unexpectedly lands a job at a Catholic Church. The novel delves into the struggles of the main character, highlighting her battles with mental health issues, particularly depression and anxiety, in a darkly humorous and relatable manner. The writing style is described as immensely relatable, funny, and moving, with a touch of dark humor and existential dread that resonates with readers dealing with similar issues.

The book is a blend of comedy and drama, offering a mix of hilarious, sad, and relatable moments. Despite addressing heavy topics like depression, suicide ideation, anxiety, and dissociation, the novel maintains a hopeful tone and concludes with a touch of romance. The main character's journey through life's challenges, including her hyperfixation on death and loss, is portrayed with accuracy, tenderness, and queer representation, making it a compelling and engaging read.

'My Year of Rest and Relaxation' by Ottessa Moshfegh follows an unnamed narrator, a young woman in New York City who, after inheriting her parents' wealth, decides to spend a year in a drug-induced sleep, cutting off contact with the world. The book delves into themes of depression, escapism, and societal disdain, as the narrator navigates a year of numbness and self-imposed isolation, reflecting on relationships, privilege, and the pursuit of rest and relaxation. Moshfegh's writing style is described as dark, raw, and honest, capturing the protagonist's apathy and vulnerability, while also maintaining a sense of humor and quirkiness throughout the narrative.

Prozac Nation by Elizabeth Wurtzel is a memoir that delves into the author's struggle with depression, offering a raw and honest account of her battle with mental illness. Wurtzel narrates her experiences with atypical depression, detailing her personal journey from childhood through her time at Harvard, and her eventual reliance on Prozac to manage her condition. The writing style is described as poetic and beautifully capturing the complexities of depression, providing readers with an intimate look into the author's inner turmoil and emotional struggles.

In the book "Girl, Interrupted" by Susanna Kaysen, readers are taken on a journey through the author's stay at a mental institution in the 1960s. The narrative provides a raw and honest insight into Kaysen's experiences, offering a glimpse into the mind of a young woman diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. The writing style is described as lucid and profound, with short, focused chapters that delve into Kaysen's life during her time at the psychiatric hospital and the period following her release.

Kaysen's memoir not only sheds light on her personal struggles but also raises questions about the definitions of sanity and insanity, challenging societal norms and perceptions surrounding mental health. Through vivid portrayals of fellow patients and caregivers, the author paints a detailed picture of life within the psychiatric ward, showcasing both the horrors and moments of introspection that shaped her perspective on mental illness and recovery.

'Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine' by Gail Honeyman is a novel that delves into the life of Eleanor Oliphant, a socially isolated and awkward office worker with a traumatic past. The story follows Eleanor as she navigates through her daily routines, forming unexpected friendships, confronting her past, and gradually undergoing a transformation towards self-discovery and healing. The narrative style provides insights into Eleanor's quirky and complex personality, showcasing her struggles, growth, and interactions with those around her.

The book combines elements of humor, poignancy, and personal triumph as it unravels Eleanor's journey towards overcoming her deep sense of loneliness and guilt. Through subtle storytelling and engaging character development, the author paints a vivid picture of Eleanor's life, highlighting the power of small acts of kindness, the importance of human connection, and the themes of resilience and hope that resonate throughout the novel.

'Girl in Pieces' by Kathleen Glasgow follows the story of a 17-year-old girl named Charlie Davis who struggles with self-harm, coming from a background of abuse, homelessness, and loss. The book delves into Charlie's journey of recovery as she navigates through her past traumas and strives to build a new life for herself. The writing style is described as raw, lyrical, and emotionally impactful, portraying the harsh realities of self-harm and mental illness with honesty and depth.

The plot of 'Girl in Pieces' is characterized by darkness and hope, highlighting the everyday struggles of individuals dealing with addiction and mental health issues. Through Charlie's narrative, the author effectively addresses themes of self-harm, suicide, abuse, drugs, and alcohol, shedding light on the importance of kindness and support in healing. The story is praised for its emotional depth, realistic portrayal of flawed characters, and the message that it conveys about resilience and the power of finding a support system.

Turtles All the Way Down by John Green is a contemporary young adult novel that delves into the struggles of a teenage girl, Aza, who battles severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) while navigating relationships and attempting to solve a mystery involving a missing billionaire. The book skillfully explores the complexities of mental illness, friendship, and family dynamics, portraying the internal torment and external challenges faced by the protagonist with authenticity and insight. Through eloquent writing and a dual narrative of personal struggles and a gripping mystery, Green crafts a poignant story that sheds light on the realities of living with mental health issues.

The narrative in Turtles All the Way Down is enriched by John Green's trademark writing style, which combines philosophical reflections, poignant character dynamics, and introspective moments. The book offers a compelling exploration of themes such as anxiety, OCD, friendship, and identity, capturing the essence of teenage angst and the nuances of mental health struggles. Through a blend of heartfelt storytelling and realistic portrayals of characters, Green weaves a narrative that resonates with readers, evoking empathy and understanding for the challenges faced by individuals grappling with mental illness.

'I Never Promised You a Rose Garden' by Hannah Green is a novel that delves deep into the portrayal of mental illness, specifically schizophrenia, through the eyes of a young girl named Deborah. The book takes the readers on a journey through Deborah's struggles with her inner world of Yr, her time in a mental hospital, and her gradual progress towards understanding and managing her illness. Greenberg's writing style is described as sensitive, detailed, and thought-provoking, allowing readers to form close bonds with the characters and empathize with the protagonist's challenging experiences.

'She's Come Undone' by Wally Lamb is a compelling coming-of-age story that follows the life of Dolores Price, a young girl who faces heart-wrenching challenges from childhood to adulthood. The novel delves into themes of love, loss, trauma, and self-discovery as Dolores navigates through a series of painful events that shape her character. The writing style of the book is noted for its ability to capture the raw emotions and struggles of the protagonist, drawing readers into Dolores' tumultuous journey with its vivid storytelling.

The plot of 'She's Come Undone' unfolds through Dolores' experiences with abuse, trauma, and self-destructive behaviors, showcasing her resilience and growth amidst adversity. Wally Lamb's narrative skillfully portrays the complexities of Dolores' life, from her struggles with body image and relationships to her quest for self-acceptance and redemption. The book's exploration of dark themes is balanced with moments of humor and hope, offering a poignant depiction of a flawed yet relatable protagonist's evolution over time.

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is a haunting and beautifully written novel that delves into the descent of Esther Greenwood into madness and depression. The story follows Esther, a young woman with a bright future, as she struggles with her mental health, ends up in a psychiatric ward after a suicide attempt, and navigates her way back to normalcy. Plath's writing style is described as poetic, vivid, and sparse, perfectly capturing the delicate yet powerful essence of the subject matter.

The book provides a raw and honest portrayal of depression, mental illness, and the societal pressures faced by women in the 1950s America. Plath's storytelling is poignant, dark, and at times morbidly funny, offering a deep insight into Esther's internal struggles and the challenges she encounters on her journey towards self-discovery and recovery.