Crazy (Tenth Anniversary Edition)

A compelling novel-in-verse about mental illness, family relationships, and the power of art.

-YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults Nominee
-NYPL Best Book
-Bank Street Best Books
-Paterson Prize Honor Book
-Foreword IndieFab Awards--Gold

In 1960s Oregon, fifteen-year-old Laura just wants a quiet, regular life: drawing in her sketchbook, hanging out with her best friend, maybe going on a date with Dennis from school. But Laura has a secret--her mother is mentally ill. When Mother has a breakdown while painting, Laura’s confusion and anger start to build. What if art can’t keep her safe from becoming like her mother? What if Laura’s life will never be close to normal?

Stirring and eloquent, Crazy follows Laura as she navigates fears about her mother’s--and her own--mental health. This new tenth anniversary edition includes discussion questions, recommended resources for teens, and an interview with author Linda Vigen Philips.

Linda Vigen Philips is a retired teacher whose books include the novel-in-verse Behind These Hands (Light Messages) and the memoir A Beautiful Here (CreateSpace). Crazy, her debut novel, was a Paterson Prize Honor Book and a Junior Library Guild Selection, and was named to award lists by YALSA, the NYPL, Bank Street College, and other organizations. Raised in Oregon, Linda currently lives in North Carolina. She is a co-founder of Charlotte Clubhouse, part of an international movement dedicated to ending social and economic isolation for those living with mental illness.