Kissing Doorknobs : Book Review

"Kissing Doorknobs" by Terry Spencer Hesser is a powerful and heartfelt young adult novel that delves into the life of Tara Sullivan, a teenager grappling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Through the pages of this book, readers are given a raw and realistic look into Tara's daily battles with anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and the compulsions she feels compelled to perform. Hesser does a remarkable job portraying the complexities of OCD, shedding light on a mental illness that is often misunderstood.

The novel takes readers deep into Tara's mind, allowing them to experience the intensity of her obsessions and the overpowering need for control that dominates her everyday life. Hesser's writing is perceptive and compassionate, capturing the intricate facets of OCD with incredible accuracy. She explores how Tara's condition affects her relationships, particularly with her friends and family, showcasing the difficulties they encounter in trying to understand and support her.

A notable strength of "Kissing Doorknobs" is its portrayal of the internal struggles Tara faces. Hesser skillfully depicts the constant internal conflict between Tara's longing for a "normal" life and her relentless compulsions, evoking empathy and understanding. As readers follow Tara's journey, they witness her growth and determination to navigate her obsessions and free herself from the limitations imposed by OCD.

Another commendable aspect of the book is Hesser's approach to addressing the stigma surrounding mental illness. By giving Tara a voice and allowing readers to intimately experience her struggles, Hesser challenges common misconceptions and promotes empathy and understanding. She emphasizes the significance of seeking help and finding support, as well as the power of self-acceptance and resilience.

Overall, "Kissing Doorknobs" is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals living with OCD. Terry Spencer Hesser's thorough exploration of the subject matter, coupled with her well-developed characters and compelling storytelling, makes this book a must-read for both young adults and adults alike.

What are readers saying?

Terry Spencer Hesser's novel, "Kissing Doorknobs," has garnered a range of insightful reviews that shed light on the compelling nature of this book. The story revolves around Tara, a teenage girl grappling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as she confronts the difficulties she faces and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

One aspect of Hesser's writing that received much praise from reviewers is her ability to captivate readers right from the first page. The powerful and emotionally charged portrayal of Tara's experience with OCD resonated deeply with readers, immersing them in her story. Many reviewers admired the book's authentic representation of mental health issues, applauding Hesser for her sensitive and accurate treatment of the subject matter.

Furthermore, Hesser's book was lauded for its educational value, as reviewers found Tara's narrative to be enlightening and insightful regarding OCD. Readers appreciated gaining a deeper understanding of the condition and developing greater empathy for those who live with it. The broader exploration of mental health within the novel was also highly praised, with reviewers acknowledging its potential to foster important conversations and mitigate stigmas.

Character development was another aspect of "Kissing Doorknobs" that drew positive remarks. Tara, as well as the supporting characters, were seen as realistic and relatable, evoking empathy among readers. The carefully crafted relationships between characters added depth to the story, allowing for nuanced exploration of themes such as loyalty, friendship, and the power of self-acceptance.

While the majority of reviews were positive, there were some criticisms regarding the pacing of the book, with a few readers finding it slow at certain points. Additionally, a small group expressed a desire for more resolution or closure in certain aspects of the story. Nevertheless, these critiques did not overshadow the overall appreciation for the strengths of the book.

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