A SHOCK TOO FAR FOR SOME!
.... The Shock of the Fall was s step too far for a few of the Hussies. Whether it was the
controversial content of the book or the fact that we all have teenage sons, this book certainly threw
up mixed reviews and mixed emotions. One thing we were unanimous about was the fact that it was a page turner, but not for the usual reasons. We weren't rushing to see what happened next because most of the story was obvious and predictable, but because it was so well written and the lead character became so endearing. You actually wanted to know that something positive could come out of such a devastating condition.
up mixed reviews and mixed emotions. One thing we were unanimous about was the fact that it was a page turner, but not for the usual reasons. We weren't rushing to see what happened next because most of the story was obvious and predictable, but because it was so well written and the lead character became so endearing. You actually wanted to know that something positive could come out of such a devastating condition.
.... Another thing we were all unanimous about was the 'odd' comments from the critics on the reverse of the book. Jo Brand must have been quoted out of context or has maybe not even read the book, because to say it was 'funny' seemed bizarre or maybe she just has a distorted sense of humour!
.... On the surface this book is cleverly written, giving a very honest and sympathetic account of the diagnosis of schizophrenia and how this devastating condition affects the patient, the family and the
support workers. Even the Medical contingent of our group was impressed by its accuracy. Although the exact causes of schizophrenia aren't fully understood, the story touched on the various factors which seem to play a role. There seems to be some sort of genetic predisposition and childhood stressors can also contribute. Boys often become unwell at a younger age than girls and can have more extreme symptoms. It is undoubtedly one of the worst mental illnesses, but there are effective treatments. As the saying goes - keep taking the tablets. Ultimately, we were all saddened by, and some found it hard to witness, the hopelessness of the situation.
support workers. Even the Medical contingent of our group was impressed by its accuracy. Although the exact causes of schizophrenia aren't fully understood, the story touched on the various factors which seem to play a role. There seems to be some sort of genetic predisposition and childhood stressors can also contribute. Boys often become unwell at a younger age than girls and can have more extreme symptoms. It is undoubtedly one of the worst mental illnesses, but there are effective treatments. As the saying goes - keep taking the tablets. Ultimately, we were all saddened by, and some found it hard to witness, the hopelessness of the situation.
(The County Hotel. If they could do up the food the way they have done up the hotel they would be on to a winner!!)
.... The Hussies gathered at The County Hotel for a lunchtime discussion of the book and also to check out this newly refurbished hotel in Hexham. We were all very impressed with the new 'boutique style' decor which was very comfortable, albeit a little chilly for some. It is a little confusing because it's a hotel but doesn't offer full 'at your table' service. Unfortunately, that's were the positive comments end. The food presented to us was not representative of the decor and the menu description. Soup of the Day was the unimaginative 'Vegetable Soup'. The starters seemed very basis and the salads, although, sounded good on paper, were disappointingly average for the price. Maybe we should give the evening menu a try before we write this venue off for future meetings!!
.... The next book of choice is The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
.... Please join us and let us know what you think of this book. Most of you will have seen the recently released film which, I have to say, was very good. This time we are reading the book after seeing the film rather than the other way round!
.... Next Meeting Wednesday 30th April 2014
