Books Like...

'Left Neglected' by Lisa Genova follows the story of Sarah Nickerson, a high-powered executive and mother of three, who suffers a traumatic brain injury in a car accident, leading to a condition called Left Neglect. The book explores Sarah's journey of recovery, adaptation to her new reality, and reevaluation of her priorities in life. Through the eyes of Sarah, readers get a glimpse into the challenges of living with a neurological condition and the impact it has on her relationships and sense of self. Genova's writing style captures the emotional struggles and growth of the protagonist, offering a poignant and insightful narrative that delves into themes of family, identity, and resilience.

"Transparent Things" by Vladimir Nabokov is a short, complex novella that delves into the themes of perception, reality, and the impact of past associations on our present experiences. The story follows the protagonist, Hugh Person, as he navigates through surreal and mundane moments, blurring the boundaries between past and present. Nabokov's writing style is described as elegant, wistful, and perceptive, showcasing his masterful use of language to create an engaging and imaginative narrative.

'Still Alice' by Lisa Genova is a heart-wrenching story that follows the life of Alice Howland, a talented Harvard professor diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. The novel chronicles Alice's journey as she rapidly loses her memory and sense of self, all written from her own point of view. The reactions of Alice's husband, children, colleagues, and friends are portrayed in a human and illuminating manner, showcasing the impact of the disease on their lives. provides a compassionate and insightful look into the struggles of living with Alzheimer's, offering a unique perspective on the disease.

Challenger Deep by Neal Shusterman is a poignant and raw portrayal of a young man's descent into mental illness, specifically schizophrenia. The book alternates between Caden's reality and his hallucinatory world on a ship, blurring the lines between the two and providing a unique insight into his struggles. Through Caden's narrative, readers are taken on a journey through the depths of psychosis, hospitalization, and the impact of mental illness on both the individual and their loved ones. Shusterman's writing style delicately balances the harrowing nature of the story with moments of hope and compassion, creating a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and enlightening.

"Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" by Jonathan Safran Foer follows the journey of Oskar, a young boy trying to make sense of his father's death in the 9/11 attacks. Through a unique writing style and multiple narrators, the book explores themes of loss, grief, and healing as Oskar embarks on a quest to find the lock that fits a key he found amongst his father's belongings. The story is set in post-9/11 New York City, intertwining past events like the bombing of Dresden with the present-day tragedy, creating a poignant and thought-provoking narrative.

The book is praised for its use of quirky characters, innovative storytelling techniques, and the emotional depth it brings to the topic of coping with the aftermath of a tragic event. Readers appreciate the way Foer delves into Oskar's world, combining humor and pathos in a manner that resonates with them. The inclusion of drawings, alternating chapters, and different points of view adds a multimedia experience to the narrative, making it a captivating and impactful read.

Craig Gilner, a high school student struggling with depression and stress, checks himself into a psychiatric hospital after having suicidal thoughts. During his stay, he forms relationships with other patients and embarks on a journey of self-discovery. The book portrays Craig's experiences in the adult psychiatric ward, highlighting themes of depression, teenage struggles, and finding hope amidst darkness. Ned Vizzini's writing style is described as insightful, humorous, and emotional, offering a unique perspective on mental health issues faced by teens.

In "Everything I Never Told You" by Celeste Ng, the Lee family is faced with the tragic death of their daughter Lydia, leading them to unravel family secrets and confront the impact of unspoken truths on their relationships. The novel delves into themes of mixed-race identity, parental expectations, sibling dynamics, and the complexities of communication within a family. Through a nonlinear narrative, Ng skillfully navigates between past and present, exploring the characters' perspectives and emotions as they come to terms with Lydia's death and its aftermath.

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.

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.

'A Monster Calls' by Patrick Ness is a heart-wrenching story about a 13-year-old boy named Conor who is struggling to cope with his mother's terminal cancer. Throughout the book, Conor is visited by a monster who guides him through dealing with his mother's illness and helps him confront his deepest fears and emotions. The story explores themes of grief, loss, and acceptance in a poignant and honest manner. The writing style is described as beautifully written, quick-paced, and emotionally impactful, with illustrations that complement the narrative perfectly.