Brain on Fire by Susannah Cahalan

Brain on Fire  is the true story of a young woman who had it all together and inexplicably begins to lose it. She begins to have odd physical problems, paranoia, and other various irrational behaviors. Her family and friends are shocked and don't know what to do. Fortunately, they manage to get her the help she needs.

What makes this book so special? Well, the author and subject is an amazingly gifted writer. She's also a reporter and a thorough researcher. She did a great job of going back to the times that she couldn't remember and getting information to fill in the blanks of what happened. She admits she is biased, as we all are when telling our own stories. But Susannah (I feel like I got to know her so well by reading this book that we are on a first name basis) tries hard to be fair to everyone involved in her trip through madness. Another thing that makes it an enjoyable read is her recovery, and the bittersweetness of the researching/telling her story (i.e., writing the book) which is integral to her getting her life back and moving on to keep living. I found her inspiring. 

Definitely recommend this one, and hope she will continue to write books ... I would read pretty much anything she writes. 

Reviewer:  Lorien Goodale