As a prequel to Amy Liz Harrison’s “Eternally Expecting,” Amy was just a California kid in the 1980s, dreaming big and living in the cultural whirlwind of Madonna and *Moonlighting*. Her first book gave us a poignant look at her struggles with postpartum depression, the challenges of raising four children, and her battle with alcohol, culminating in a touching tale of her first decade of sobriety. Now, with her prequel, “Eternally Awkward,” Harrison delves deeper into her past, revealing another layer to her struggles: ADHD.
“Eternally Awkward” is a hilarious and insightful journey into Harrison’s childhood, piecing together the “clues” of what would later be diagnosed as ADHD through a series of embarrassing, ridiculous, yet relatable anecdotes from the 1980s. The book doesn’t just recount these tales; it weaves them into a larger narrative that follows Harrison through the aftermath of a panic attack sparked by the curious scent of alcohol on a rubber doll—a symbolic foreshadowing of her future struggles with drinking.
This book is not merely a recounting of youthful misadventures but a mystery of self-discovery. Harrison frames her mental health challenges as a detective story where the reader is invited to solve the puzzle alongside her. The narrative cleverly uses the metaphor of a classic board game, asking, “Will it be Colonel Mustard or Miss Peacock?” as it unfolds the interplay of anxiety, depression, and ADHD in her life.
For anyone who has struggled with ADHD or can appreciate the iconic elements of the 1980s, “Eternally Awkward” offers a captivating look at the often misunderstood facets of mental health. It’s a must-read for fans of “Eternally Expecting,” providing a deeper understanding of Harrison’s challenges and triumphs. So, grab a can of Tab and settle in for a nostalgic and enlightening journey as Harrison places the last piece of her mental health puzzle. This book not only entertains but also illuminates the complex interplay of mental health issues with everyday life, making it a valuable addition to the conversation around mental health and recovery.
Eternally Expecting Series (includes Eternally Awkward and discussion guide)
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A Disco Ball is Hundreds of Pieces of Broken Glass, Put Together to Make a Magical Ball of Light. You are NOT Broken, Friend. You are a DISCO BALL!
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