Lisa Genova, the acclaimed author known for her poignant explorations of neurological conditions, is set to release her sixth novel, "More or Less Maddy," which delves into the complexities of bipolar disorder. This new work aims to foster understanding and empathy for those living with mental illness, a topic Genova feels is often overlooked.
Key Takeaways
- Author Background: Lisa Genova is a Harvard-trained neuroscientist and bestselling author, recognized for her previous novel, "Still Alice."
- New Novel: "More or Less Maddy" focuses on the life of Maddy Banks, a young woman navigating bipolar disorder while pursuing a career in stand-up comedy.
- Publication Event: Genova will host a talk on January 14 at Riverview School in East Sandwich, Massachusetts, to celebrate the book’s release.
- Themes Explored: The novel addresses the stigma surrounding mental illness and the challenges of medication management.
Genova’s journey as a writer began with her first novel, "Still Alice," which she self-published after struggling to find a publisher. The book, which tells the story of a woman with early-onset Alzheimer’s, became a bestseller and was adapted into an Oscar-winning film. Since then, Genova has written five more novels, each focusing on different neurological conditions, including autism and ALS.
In "More or Less Maddy," Genova introduces readers to Maddy Banks, a New York University student who decides to leave her traditional career path to pursue stand-up comedy. As Maddy grapples with her bipolar disorder, the narrative explores her relationships, identity, and the societal perceptions of mental illness.
Insights from Lisa Genova
- Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Genova emphasizes the importance of recognizing the various forms of bipolar disorder, including bipolar I and II, and the challenges of diagnosis and treatment.
- Empathy Through Fiction: She believes that fiction can provide a deeper understanding of mental health issues, allowing readers to empathize with characters in ways that nonfiction may not achieve.
- Cultural Commentary: The novel also touches on contemporary themes, such as the pressures faced by young women today, as reflected in Maddy’s obsession with pop culture icons like Taylor Swift.
Genova’s goal with this novel is to educate readers about the realities of living with bipolar disorder, including the difficulties of medication adherence and the societal stigma that often accompanies mental illness. She hopes that by sharing Maddy’s story, readers will gain a better understanding of the emotional and psychological complexities involved.
Upcoming Events
- Book Talk: Genova will discuss "More or Less Maddy" at Riverview School on January 14, with tickets available for purchase.
- Screening of "Still Alice": A special screening of the film adaptation of her first novel will take place on January 16, followed by a discussion with Genova and a neurologist.
As Genova continues to write and speak about mental health, she remains committed to using her platform to foster dialogue and understanding around these critical issues. Her work not only entertains but also serves as a vital resource for those seeking to understand the complexities of neurological and mental health conditions.
