I enjoyed reading this memoir, and am impressed by Dr. Saks' accomplishments and her bravery in putting a face to a disease that has few spokespeople. In terms of it's merit as a literary work, it was more of a detailed report of her life rather than a crafted memoir with deep insights or elegant prose. Worth a read if you are reading it for content and information about schizophrenia, but lacks the poetry of a book like William Styron's Darkness Visible.

.. a real knock out of a book! Unflinching portrayal of author's inner experience of being mentally ill...could not put down

I could not put this book down! What a brave and enlightening story. Thank you, Elyn Saks, for having the courage to share your journey. Your determination is inspiring and I applaud you for helping the world to understand that schizophrenia is a "real illness;" it has nothing to do with 'character flaws' or 'not trying hard enough.' Your support system of friends and colleagues is a testament to the kind and determined person that you are. Please keep fighting for the rights of the mentally ill.

This is one of those books that can be read only one chapter at a time as you live with the character in her life as a schizophrenic. Elyn Saks tells her own story and finally you learn exactly what a schizophrenic goes through day and night, in and out of hospital stays. This book is a must for any family member of a schizophrenic or anyone in any business that touches the life of a schizophrenic. I thank Elyn for sharing her life story with the world.

This was a excellent book. It gave me a better understanding of mental illness and good look at our doctors and hospitals. I would highly recommend this to consumers, family and friends.