"It took me a minute to realize something had changed. It wasn't only that the sun was shining a little brighter that day, it was also that something caught my attention, something had interested me enough to make me think, to make me wonder." – The Flawed Ones by Jay Chirino
(I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.)
The Flawed Ones is the story of Jay Chirino's inner trials while being detained in a psychiatric hospital, after a lifelong history of anxiety and depression which led to years of substance abuse. Amidst the seemingly chaotic blend of doctors, nurses, addicts, schizophrenics and other afflicted souls, Jay meets people who will change his perceptions of mental illness and finds out there is light even in the darkest of places.
This book reminds us that our mental health affects every aspect of us from how we feel to how we act. It changes the way we see the world around us and the choices we make in our lives. I must mention that the book covers a variety of sensitive topics and the reader should be aware of potential triggers. The world he describes is almost frightening at times and not always easy to read. Even though the story was deep, and some scenes evoke a keen sense of guilt and heartache, it wasn't too overwhelming. In fact, it brought awareness and inspiration to me in many ways. Jay's writing is on point, with vivid and realistic descriptions which make it easy to connect with the characters and the story. I loved that we get to witness this world inside a mental institution through the eyes of a smart and observant narrator. There is even a hint of romance thrown into the mix!
I would recommend this book to someone who is looking for an intense and intriguing memoir and who wants to learn a thing or two about what it's like to live with addictions and mental disorders.
I give The Flawed Ones a rating of 4 out of 5 feathers!