Title of the book: January First
Author: Michael Schofield
Number of pages: 288
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆
Review:
A father was hoping his daughter was just a misunderstood genius, but as time went on he came to realize it was something far more serious. January First is all about a family's journey of finding a diagnosis of schizophrenia for their six year old daughter Jani. From a young age, Jani was always different from other children. She was constantly chasing after her imaginary friends, some of which were nice while others told Jani to do unspeakable things. Jani’s parents were in a constant struggle to not lose their daughter to an illness that they couldn’t see or comprehend. January First is told through the perspective of Jani’s father Michael, who was on the front lines of trying to save her from madness along with trying to keep the family together.
Jani had to face not being able to function in a normal school, her inability to form friendships with real people, and the uncontrollable need to hurt her baby brother. Jani’s parents had an unwavering commitment to help Jani and protect her from her imaginary world. It was a daily challenge to keep Jani safe from herself and others safe from Jani. This led to many hospital stays and fights to get Jani the help that she needed. Michael not only had to work to save Jani, but also to save his family which was falling apart from the tornado that Jani created around her.
Michael shares his story in such a compelling way that the reader can’t put the book down. There is so much empathy for Jani, a six year old having to battle the worst mental illness ever recorded, and her family who was right there with her. January First is all about never giving up and finding hope in the most uncertain times. It’s about fighting for the ones you love and being there no matter what. I would highly recommend this read for anyone in need of a story that teaches you how to see the beauty in the darkness, and how to never give up faith.
Jani had to face not being able to function in a normal school, her inability to form friendships with real people, and the uncontrollable need to hurt her baby brother. Jani’s parents had an unwavering commitment to help Jani and protect her from her imaginary world. It was a daily challenge to keep Jani safe from herself and others safe from Jani. This led to many hospital stays and fights to get Jani the help that she needed. Michael not only had to work to save Jani, but also to save his family which was falling apart from the tornado that Jani created around her.
Michael shares his story in such a compelling way that the reader can’t put the book down. There is so much empathy for Jani, a six year old having to battle the worst mental illness ever recorded, and her family who was right there with her. January First is all about never giving up and finding hope in the most uncertain times. It’s about fighting for the ones you love and being there no matter what. I would highly recommend this read for anyone in need of a story that teaches you how to see the beauty in the darkness, and how to never give up faith.
this seems like an interesting read. the way you describe it is really interesting. I might read this one if i get the chance
ReplyDeleteVery fascinating. I love books that really put me into the characters shoes, and it seems that this author does a fantastic job of it. Your review is very detailed and articulate. You did a nice job.
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