Finding Alice by Melody Carlson Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of Finding Alice
Book Review: A book that gave me hope
Summary: 5 Stars
This book gave me hope. My mother is paranoid schizophrenic, as is Alice, the main character in this book. Before reading this book, I had lost all hope that there was help for my mom, but after reading the book and seeing how Alice found and accepted help from others, it allowed me a glimpse of the hope I once had. Thank you Melody Carlson!Book Review: A powerful and challenging read
Summary: 5 Stars
I've read two previous Melody Carlson books, both funny, light rom-com chicklit. 'Finding Alice' is quite different. Told in the first person, it chronicles Alice's journey into mental illness, in this case, paranoid schizophrenia, which is brought on suddenly when she is dumped by her boyfriend in her senior year of college. Alice equates many of her experiences to those of the 'other' Alice, in Lewis Carroll's 'Alice in Wonderland' and 'Through the Looking Glass'. She meets people she characterises as Tweedle Dumb and Tweedle Dweeb, the Queen of Hearts and the Cheshire Cat (actually, that really was a cat). There were probably more references that I missed, as I can't remember when I last read Carroll.
This book is almost harrowing in places, but it is worthwhile reading to gain a better understanding of the illness, and the progress that has been made in the treatment of schizophrenia since the 70's and 80's. It also makes some important points about how Christians/the church think about and treat mental illness, which is illustrated by Pastor John of the cult-like Salvation Centre, and the more 'progressive' view of Golden Hills. If you've ever wondered what schizophrenia means but don't want the full-blown medical description, I recommend you read this book. It's opened my eyes.
Book Review: Awesome book
Summary: 5 Stars
i completely loved this book. as usual melody carlson's writing captured me from the first page. the book is like a deeper and more wholesome "bell Jar" or "girl interupted". this is a book that is totally worth buyingBook Review: Beautifully Depicted Look Into The World Of A Schizophrenic
Summary: 5 Stars
At first, it's horrifying to contemplate the fall into schizophrenia. Finding Alice accurately depicts the fear and injustice of this illness, which strikes its victims typically in their 20's, after a normal life with a stable mental health history. The book delves into the situations those with schizophrenia often find themselves, facing inadequate, and often horrifying treatment at a facility or a life on the streets. Through the eyes of Alice, we see a terrifying world seemingly filled with insurmountable obstacles. Imagined or not... the reader can understand how difficult it is to live in such an alarming and intimidating world.
But unlike the stories of many schizophrenics, this is a hopeful tale that explores not only the terrifying aspects of our world and mental health treatment. It also expresses how people can (and do change), how kind souls are out there, and how progressive, empathetic, and understanding treatment can give back life to those with schizophrenia.
This is an important book for those who suffer this disease, know someone who does, or works with them. It's also a brilliant, heart-breaking, but hopeful story for anyone looking for an interesting read.
Book Review: Couldn't put it down.
Summary: 5 Stars
Melody Carlson created unforgettable characters in "Finding Alice." I learned a lot about mental illnesses from this novel. And the characters who harm and help Alice will live in your memory long after you've read the last page.
It challenged my ideas about homelessness and hospitality.
I couldn't put it down.
Highly recommended.