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A review by annarose96
The Existence Of Amy by Lana Grace Riva
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
The first thing I noticed when reading this book was the vulnerability of the narration. I was so moved by the unending compassion Amy offered to others even when she didn’t feel deserving of it herself. I didn’t expect to cry while reading this novel, but its raw honesty had a big impact on me.
We get to see daily life through Amy’s eyes as she battles with severe anxiety, depression, and OCD. I could relate when Amy was frustrated, or when she pushed herself to show up the way she thought others needed. Her character became like a friend that I wanted to see happy.
The kind of loneliness that Amy goes through - feeling like no one understands her but afraid to voice her difficulties - really hit home. I’ve had my own struggles with mental health, but I also really related to Amy’s friends; they mean well, but don’t know how to help.
This book felt like a call to action to support the people I care about in a way that’s actually helpful to them, not just convenient for me. Sometimes we show up with the best intentions but don’t know what to do or say. Asking that person, consulting a professional, and doing your own research, can make such a difference in effectively being a supportive friend.
I would recommend this book to anyone who has ever felt alone in their experience - whether it’s because of difficulties with mental health or any other aspect of life.
We get to see daily life through Amy’s eyes as she battles with severe anxiety, depression, and OCD. I could relate when Amy was frustrated, or when she pushed herself to show up the way she thought others needed. Her character became like a friend that I wanted to see happy.
The kind of loneliness that Amy goes through - feeling like no one understands her but afraid to voice her difficulties - really hit home. I’ve had my own struggles with mental health, but I also really related to Amy’s friends; they mean well, but don’t know how to help.
This book felt like a call to action to support the people I care about in a way that’s actually helpful to them, not just convenient for me. Sometimes we show up with the best intentions but don’t know what to do or say. Asking that person, consulting a professional, and doing your own research, can make such a difference in effectively being a supportive friend.
I would recommend this book to anyone who has ever felt alone in their experience - whether it’s because of difficulties with mental health or any other aspect of life.