Prozac Nation

Sunday, January 10, 2010

This is a memoir of 26-year-old Elizabeth Wurtzel, about 10 years of her life dealing with a chronic clinical depression.

At first glance, it might seem to some readers that this is Wurtzel’s way or ‘excuse’ to whine. But in truth, this memoir actually paints a very honest picture of a person dealing with this disease. The author also stated that her main intent in writing this memoir is to let others know and understand how it is dealing with her disorder. She also stated that she wants people to understand and differentiate between a diagnosis of a clinical depression as opposed to someone who is lousy, and sad all the time.

Personally, I found this a really interesting, honest, and revealing book. I found her writing to be engaging, simply because the way she talks is marked by the younger generation. I felt that it was easy because it was like talking to a friend, but I could see how maybe a much younger AND older generation will not find this book easy to relate to.

It might come off initially that the author is taking the chance to whine and be sarcastic but in truth, this is a way to understand people that are dealing with depression. The writing was a little bit self-indulgent at times, even coming off as narcissistic.

Would I recommend it?

I will tell you that this is one of those books that it’s either you like it or you don’t. It is definitely not your traditional kind of novel, and that is why sometimes, it could be a little hard to get through this. Just cut the author some slack, try to read it for its honesty, and imagine yourself in her place instead. Maybe that will make the book a great read for you.

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