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My first introduction to Sophie Kinsella was not one of her shopaholic novels but rather a quite funny and quirky book about a 14 year old girl coping with severe anxiety. With a dynamic family trying to understand what’s wrong, they just want to know how to help their daughter Audrey. Her older brother is more interested in his eventual pro-gaming career.
When I first read this, mental illness was not really openly written about in mainstream literature. Especially, one where a person with mental illness can manage their condition while finding someone who loves them for who they are. I appreciated the openness and how things weren’t so readily explained. It’s more complicated than a diagnosis. There’s the issue of medication and therapy where everyone has a varied reaction. The period of waiting to see if things are even working can be an issue in of itself.
I think this book for its time served a purpose. Now looking back, there’s this tone that romantic love is THE cure for mental illness. I wish there was more interaction between the family and maybe even friends to provide a counterargument. A pathway allowance so we aren’t relegated to simplistic idealization of the most important person is someone who is willing to love you. I still recommend this book for a light read and an introduction into the potential of mental health in young adult.
Simple and amazing. I wouldn’t be surprised if this was influenced by Where’d You Go Bernadette?
☟ Let’s Chit Chat! What are your favorite representations of mental health in fiction?
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