A review by booksandhikingboots
What Made Maddy Run: The Secret Struggles and Tragic Death of an All-American Teen by Kate Fagan

challenging dark emotional informative sad fast-paced

5.0

In "What Made Maddy Run: The Secret Struggles and Tragic Death of an All-American Teen," Kate Fagan delivers a poignant exploration of mental health, societal pressures, and the tragic consequences of untreated struggles. Fagan artfully unravels the life of Madison Holleran, a seemingly perfect All-American teen whose internal battles culminated in a heartbreaking suicide. The book skillfully blends interviews with Maddy's family, friends, and teammates, alongside Maddy's personal writings and social media posts. Fagan navigates the complexities of Maddy's inner world, using her story as a lens to examine the intersection of high achievement, perfectionism, and the impact of social media on mental well-being. Fagan courageously confronts the stigma surrounding mental health and sparks a necessary conversation about the pressures faced by today's youth. "What Made Maddy Run" serves as a compelling call to action, urging a collective reconsideration of societal attitudes toward mental health, particularly in the context of the hyper-competitive and image-driven culture prevalent today. While the subject matter is weighty, Fagan's empathetic and incisive writing makes the book accessible. It prompts crucial discussions about mental health, resilience, and the imperative need for empathy and understanding. Maddy's story is not just an individual tragedy; it's a powerful catalyst for change and a reminder of the transformative impact compassion can have in the face of adversity, especially in the context of suicide. This book is essential reading for parents, educators, and anyone concerned about the well-being of the next generation.
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