An "Everybody Should Read This" book

By: John Green

Summary:

Aza (16) suffers from an obsessive-compulsion disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorder. When billionaire Russell Pickett goes missing, Aza's outspoken and fearless friend, Daisy is determined to find him. Together, they are determined to figure out the mystery and win the $100,000 reward. As they fish for clues, Aza stumbles upon Davis Pickett, her childhood friend and Russell's son. son of said billionaire. Even as Aza tries to solve the mystery, be a good friend, and maintain her relationship with Davis, she is dealing with OCD, anxiety, and the intrusive thoughts that consume her at every corner of her being.

BTSYA / Teen Reader (16):
Turtles All the Way Down is one of the most powerful and authentic stories I have read. It makes you feel Aza's daily hardships, bringing to light how OCD and anxiety take control of one's life and relationships. Mental illness isn't pretty nor is it something to romanticize. The story makes you realize that despite all the flaws and imperfections you have, you should still try to learn to love yourself and appreciate those around you.

Buy this book. There are many beautiful lines that are worth revisiting from time to time. I would give it as a gift to teenagers and young adults. The themes of coming of age and the painfulness of mental illness can resonate with many people. Turtles All the Way Down offers many important lessons, reminding us to love ourselves unconditionally and appreciating the people in our lives.

Reader Enjoyment Factors:

Readers will be spell-bound by the power of Aza's story. It is hopeful and heart wrenching, with eye-opening truths and inspiration. This is an "every teen needs to read" book.

Content Awareness Factors:

here is cursing, as well as sexual references. Some readers may find the descriptions and behaviors associated with OCD and anxiety uncomfortable, for others, they could be emotional triggers.

Type of Book:
Although there is mystery, the heart of this book is a highly realistic story about a young girl dealing with mental illness and the challenges it presents in everyday life.

Educational Themes:

This is a powerful, deep story with many layers. At a broad level, it is an eye-opening look at mental health and two particularly debilitating disorders. Aza gives you a perspective of the illnesses at an individual level, yet you can still see the external factors and influences. A second layer is Aza's relationships - with her family, with peers and friends, and also with herself. This last one is another layer: finding ways to "balance" it all and still not hate yourself. Acceptance and loving oneself is never easy, adding challenges brings that into clear focus. Events drawn from the story can create many opportunities for reflection and discussion.

Reading Level:
5.6

Recommended Age To Read By Yourself:
15 and Up

Recommended Age To Read Together:
15 and Up

Age of child:
Teen STAR Review Team, Be the Star You Are!™ . Reviewer age: 16

Purchase Recommendation:
Buy! This is a powerful story. When you're teen is done reading it, ask to borrow it before they offer to give to a friend.

Title	Turtles All the Way Down
Author	John Green
Publisher	Dutton Children's Books, Imprint Penguin Young Readers Group © 2017
ISBN	9780525555360
Material	Hard Cover
Cost	$19.99
Genres	Friendship, Coming of Age, Health & Wellness, Realism \| Realistic Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Social Issues