Sane New World

November 15, 2014

You can change the way you think and act. "You are your own cookbook. How you work your brain determines if you're going to become filet mignon or an old soggy meatball," writes American-born British comedian and mental health advocate Wax, who knows from experience that the cycle of self-critical thoughts can be broken. With self-effacing, ironic humor ("Depression doesn't care if you're famous, live in a mud hut, or what culture you come from, it just loves everyone"), the author describes her struggle with mental health, her treatment, and its effect on her career. Wax's experience as a poster child for mental health and desire to help others led to graduate study (an MA from Oxford) and practice of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. Alternating with the author's personal narrative are easy-to-understand descriptions of how the brain works ("What's in Your Brain? What's on Your Mind?") and helpful exercises for managing stress and changing negative thinking. VERDICT Wax's unconventional approach may inspire others to seek help in coping with mental illness.--Lucille M. Boone, San Jose P.L., CA

Copyright 2014 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.