A Crazy Good Book

By Colby M.

Young adult fiction writer, Han Nolan, takes you on a crazy, emotional ride from the perspective of troubled teen, Jason Papadopoulos. After Jason's mother passes away, his life changes dramatically, in a way most could never understand. With help from both real friends and imaginary voices, Jason works to overcome the adversity in his life and make the best of it. Crazy will generate laughter, fear, anger, and sadness, while bringing you along on Jason's journey.

Jason has to deal with a lot more than any fifteen year old boy should ever have to. He has frequent nightmares that take him back to the day his father nearly buried him alive to protect him from evil Furies. In spite of his mental illness, Jason loves his father with all his heart and they need each other. They are the only people in each other's lives-- if you don't include the imaginary characters in Jason's head-- Crazy Glue, Fat Bald Guy with Mustache, Sexy Lady, and Aunt Bee. Jason's is sane, however, as it is made clear he is aware they don't truly exist. Nonetheless, they comfort him through tough times and always keep him entertained.

Soon, real people enter the mix, and they each find themselves living similar, unfortunate lifestyles. Haze, Pete, and Shelby, all have family issues too, and can relate to Jason's struggles. It takes time for Jason to open up, but this group eventually becomes inseparable. Although his life improves substantially with his new friends, Jason is conflicted with guilt and anger regarding his mother's death and his father's insanity. When his father is ultimately taken away to a mental institute, matters only get worse.

Though difficult to relate to on a personal level, I truly felt a part of Jason's experience. All of his emotions became mine on every page. The supporting characters are well developed and play major roles. The humor is often so lame that it's funny, and the inclusion of a Laugh Track in Jason's head, makes it clear that the jokes are intended to be corny. The ending isn't quite a happily ever after, but neither are all things in life. It was perfect for this story.

Crazy is strongly recommended. It's a heartbreaking, frustrating, and beautiful must-read for all teens. You'd be crazy not to check it out.

Crazy, by Han Nolan, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2010, 348 pages