Josiah Hartley

A first hand account of a young man's fight with an insidious monster: depression!

Co-written by Josiah Hartley, and his mum Amanda Prowse, this gut-wrenching true story is for everyone whether you're suffering personally with depression, or you are caring for a family member or friend who is suffering. As is pointed out in story time and again, we tend to shy away from discussing it, even though we're now in 2023!!! It still is the bloody big elephant in room.

A beautiful and extremely moving tale.… (más)

This was such a touching book; I did have to put it down a few times because it was an emotional read, but otherwise it was a fairly quick read. I liked that the book focused on both Amanda's feelings and Josh's, but it was equal; Amanda didn't overpower Josh, and vice versa.

As someone who's suffered with depression, it was really nice to read a book by someone who felt like me. Most books I've read about this topic were written by people who lost a loved one to the illness, rather than people who have also had it. Though our experiences were different, in a lot of ways it was similar. I've rarely found an account of the illness that sounds so similar to my own.

This was difficult to read at times, I won't lie. As I said, there were certain parts that I had to put the book down. This is one of those books that I'll likely never forget. It was touching to see his family being so supportive of him when I'm sure they were lost. I wish the best to Josh and the rest of his family.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via iRead Book Tours. This did not influence my opinion in any way.… (más)

This feels like a very real and at times, gritty and unflinching examination of depression. It addresses the crippling effects on body, spirit, and relationships. It's written from two alternating perspectives - the adult son who suffers - and his mother who suffers alongside him.

I would not have naturally come across or chosen this book, but it was offered as an Amazon's prime read selection one month. I'm glad I chose it and think it's worth reading by anyone who suffers from depression or someone who loves a person who does.

I admire the graciousness and vulnerability inherent in both authors sharing their experiences and reactions to it. I know they did it to help others who may be struggling with the insidiousness of depression, but I hope they also found some measure of peace and release. The 'ending' of the book (although their journey is ongoing) is optimistic. I'm sure a lot of people are now pulling for you both.… (más)