A Schizoid at Smith

"While Blair Sorrel's 'Schizoid at Smith’ is a courageous, heartrending, and humorously poignant personal narrative, I believe its wealth of mental health and behavior-related anecdotes position it as more than just a memoir. It’s also a jaw-dropping and inspirational how-not-to book for parents wary of unwittingly damaging their children's brains, as well as their futures. And for older kids whose gray matter is already showing signs of cracks or are concerned they’re on the verge, this book may be a reassuring oasis that ‘I’m not alone’. Another element this gifted writer used to paint her heavily-shadowed and textured, verbal canvas of living art is her personal playlist of musical influences who were rocking the world while her own world was being simultaneously rocked. Ultimately, Sorrel’s ‘Schizoid at Smith’ is an unforgettable ride for every reader seeking a hard-to-put-down memoir that is way different, just like the author."

"The story of a young woman's struggle to emerge from the lack of encouragement and notice of both her special qualities and problems growing up in a middle class environment. The author's superb writing style captures the readers' imagination and enlightens those who wish to create the best opportunity for a better life for themselves and their family. Taking place in the 1960's while reading it one becomes nostalgic for the wondrous age, music, and ideas shared - an age which was exciting and proclaimed freedom as more important than wealth. The ideas and interests of the 1960's are written in an honest and eloquent style. The concerns of the Vietnam War and the values expressed by the main character's parents who were in the military are written about with a sincere dedication to their feelings. Although this is a true story, it engages the reader as any great fiction writer might have revealed the story."