“Listen” by Marissa Beck
Marissa Beck’s “Listen” is a moving examination of mental health and how it affects daily living. Blake Nolan, the protagonist of the book, has always relied on music to help her deal with her mental health issues. She is unable to listen to music the way she used to after the passing of her favorite singer, and her mental health starts to deteriorate.
Blake’s battles with anxiety, low self-esteem, and past trauma—which take the form of the intrusive voice of Nellie in her head—are expertly portrayed by the author. Readers will find it simple to relate to Blake’s experiences because the therapy scenes in the novel are smoothly incorporated into everyday circumstances.
The way the author portrayed the nonlinear nature of mental health recovery was what I cherished most about this book. The path Blake must take to free herself from Nellie’s control is paved with many ups and downs, and it is by no means an easy one. It’s encouraging to see mental health represented in this way because so many people can identify with it.
“Listen” is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about what it’s like for young women in today’s society to battle with mental health. The story is heartbreaking and inspiring, and the writing is honest and raw. Highly suggested.
In addition, Marissa Beck’s writing is captivating and vivid, which makes it simple to get caught up in Blake’s adventure. The way Blake grows and changes throughout the novel from someone who is having a hard time coping to someone who is learning to manage her mental health in a healthy and sustainable way is another outstanding aspect of character development.
The book also discusses the value of having support networks and getting medical attention while coping with mental health problems. It serves as a potent reminder that no one needs to suffer in silence and that healing is always possible.
The book “Listen” offers a view into the realm of mental health and the problems that many people deal with on a daily basis. It is an engaging and thought-provoking read overall. Anyone seeking a deeper grasp of this crucial subject should read it.