Reviews
A fascinating read for anyone living with OCD and/or hoarding, and an informative account of the behaviors for those unfamiliar with them.
Through her excellent and consistently humorous writing, Leslie draws us into her world of monstrous doubt and time-consuming checking, and deftly articulates the complexities and misery of these disorders.
Writing a book this good is a stellar accomplishment for someone without OCD...the fact that the author did it with "Fred "in her head is heroic. Her story reflects insight, hope, and complete honesty.
I'm buying this book for everyone I know whose life has been touched by OCD. I suggest that you do, too!
Paula Finn at Goodreads
This book merits the highest recommendation as it immerses the reader in what mental illness feels like akin to the classic international best seller "I Never Promised You a Rose Garden". As a retired psychologist used to describing emotional disorders from a clinical distance, I can only say that I found the author's anxiety palpable in every sentence early on in the book and then could sense a greater degree of calm as she seemed to progress in gaining a modicum of control over "Fred". Everyone who wishes to get an inside peak at what it's like to struggle with anxiety and depression should read this book.
Amazon customer
I savored this book, for each well-written line and for the insights into these disorders. I came away with more compassionate toward those who suffer with OCD and hoarding and toward myself.
Jen at Amazon
After reading an article published by Ms. Robinson in the Seattle Times which dealt with the topic of OCD, she included a reference to this book. Considering I have struggled for years with acts of repetition and excessive worry, conditions which has been presented to therapists, the diagnosis I received was very general in nature and merely presented that my struggles were cognitive in nature likely enhanced due to my multi-tasking habits and personality. I bought this book mainly to satisfy my curiosity.
Once I began to read the publication, it immediately drew my interest considering the fact that Ms. Robinson in describing the conditions she has dealt with for years in actuality was describing issues that were in fact similar in nature to what I have struggled with for quite some time. As I read, I found that I could not put the book down. Ms. Robinson wrote in a manner that was open, honest and sincere, something that I have in all likelihood avoided in order to protect myself and loved ones.
Considering the fact that this book points out specific characteristics which fit the description of OCD and the negative effects of this disorder, I am not suggesting that this book serve to be a diagnostic source or to be used for that purpose but the book does serve to bring awareness to conditions, habits and characteristics which may suggest seeking professional guidance and assistance.
This book has given me the incentive to schedule an appointment with my therapist in order to readdress the manner in which I have been treated, not as a criticism but more so to draw comparisons and associations with the symptoms and treatments Ms. Robinson has faced with her mental disorders. It is my belief that based on Ms. Robinson telling her story, it has given me insight in order to better present my struggles more definitively in order to be properly treated and at the same time enable me to better express my struggles to family and loved ones.
I strongly suggest that this book be given serious consideration for anyone suffering with OCD and/or loved ones facing this disorder.
Rick at Amazon