A review by astrangewind
Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
2.75
Matt Haig fancies himself a modern-day philosopher in this book. It's a quick read with short paragraphs and chapters, which makes it accessible for depressed audiences who struggle with reading.
While I do agree that mental illness needs to be destigmatized, I found it difficult to be really engaged with the content of this book. I wanted so badly to really *feel* this book. I came close to empathizing, but I never quite got there, despite the things I've struggled with myself in the past. Aside from that, I don't agree with one of Haig's major arguments - that mental illness has good things to offer, and there is gratitude to be had for that. It's the kind of mentality that stops people from getting better for fear of losing their artistic ability.
After reading The Midnight Library, I am frankly disappointed that Haig's nonfiction lacks the incredible prose of his fiction.
While I do agree that mental illness needs to be destigmatized, I found it difficult to be really engaged with the content of this book. I wanted so badly to really *feel* this book. I came close to empathizing, but I never quite got there, despite the things I've struggled with myself in the past. Aside from that, I don't agree with one of Haig's major arguments - that mental illness has good things to offer, and there is gratitude to be had for that. It's the kind of mentality that stops people from getting better for fear of losing their artistic ability.
After reading The Midnight Library, I am frankly disappointed that Haig's nonfiction lacks the incredible prose of his fiction.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Mental illness and Suicidal thoughts
Minor: Suicide attempt and Suicide