Plot Summary

Next to Normal

Brian Yorkey
Guide cover placeholder

Next to Normal

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 2008

Book Brief

Brian Yorkey

Next to Normal

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

112

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

Suburban America • Contemporary

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Next to Normal by Brian Yorkey follows Diana, a suburban mother living with bipolar disorder and depression, as she navigates the challenges of mental health treatment and its effects on her family dynamics, including her husband Dan and their overachieving daughter Natalie, while also reflecting on the haunting presence of her deceased son. Trigger topics include suicide and psychiatric hospitalization.

Emotional

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Challenging

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.5

3,427 ratings

86%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Next to Normal by Brian Yorkey powerfully tackles mental illness and familial strife with nuanced characters and emotional depth. Critics praise its raw portrayal of mental health and gripping score. However, some feel its intense subject matter may be overwhelming for certain audiences. Overall, it’s a compelling and thought-provoking experience.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Next to Normal?

Readers who appreciate emotionally charged, character-driven dramas like The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky and Ordinary People by Judith Guest will find Next to Normal by Brian Yorkey deeply engaging. This musical addresses themes of mental illness, family dynamics, and personal resilience, resonating with fans of introspective and poignant narratives.

4.5

3,427 ratings

86%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

112

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

Suburban America • Contemporary

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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