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Side Effects
High school can be Hell on Earth, something Isaac Matthews knows from experience. His ex-best friend is now the biggest bully in school. The medicine for his anxiety disorder is supposed to make him better, but there’s a chance he could just get worse. And then there’s the beautiful, outgoing new girl who shakes his very foundation and grounds him at the same time.
Grace is drawn to Isaac from the moment they meet. She holds his hand through his panic attacks, draws him out of his shell, and changes the way he sees the world. Why would anyone try so hard to help the school freak? She has her reasons.
Side Effects may include increased heart rate, dry mouth, interrupted speech, elevated body temperature, and dizziness or lightheadedness upon seeing her smile.
Grace is drawn to Isaac from the moment they meet. She holds his hand through his panic attacks, draws him out of his shell, and changes the way he sees the world. Why would anyone try so hard to help the school freak? She has her reasons.
Side Effects may include increased heart rate, dry mouth, interrupted speech, elevated body temperature, and dizziness or lightheadedness upon seeing her smile.
349 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 16, 2011
5 people are currently reading
1917 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer M. Barry
6 books124 followersJennifer Barry started her entertainment career on a stage but ended up behind a keyboard. The writer’s life is much better suited to her introverted nature, but she uses her opera training at karaoke on occasion. She lives in Nashville with her hilarious Irish husband, Liam, who’s found moderate Internet fame among Jen’s Facebook friends and blog followers.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 19, 2013
As someone who struggles with an axiety disorder, I found Isaac's story, at times, very difficult to read. I'd say right up until about 30% through, I had to frequently put the book down and take a breather, because the descriptions of his night terrors, and his conscious (meaning, while he was awake, not just including the ones that didn't knock him UNconscious) panic attacks were so vivid, they came close to triggering my own. If you trigger easily, I advise you to read with caution.
That being said, I adored Isaac Matthews so much. My heart broke into countless pieces as he struggled with his anxiety, and I wanted so very badly for him to be happy and to live a life where he wasn't in constant fear of something happening to him or someone he loved. Having horrific visions while you're awake, or equally horrific nightmares when you're asleep, can drive you crazy...even when you realize that they're not real. Dealing with similar issues myself and reading about Isaac's struggles, I can't help but wonder if it's even more frustrating for those of us who realize that those things AREN'T real. You start to question your state of mind by asking yourself, "Why would I even THINK that??!!" It's frightening. And that's not even including the social anxiety, having to struggle with yourself when you're surrounded by other people.
I was so, so, SO grateful for Grace. She was such a lovely character, made even more lovely when you discover how she's able to so easily interact with Isaac. She's selfless, encouraging, patient, and only wants the best for him, putting her own feelings to the side until Isaac is ready for her to share them with him. You don't meet people every day who make friends with other people regardless of what others would have to say. I only wish there were more people like her.
A compelling story, and a real eye opener that will challenge you to look at loners and social outcasts in a new light. In a world where the word "freak" is a blanket label for those who are different, stories like Isaac's will make those who are quick to make snap-judgments think twice.
That being said, I adored Isaac Matthews so much. My heart broke into countless pieces as he struggled with his anxiety, and I wanted so very badly for him to be happy and to live a life where he wasn't in constant fear of something happening to him or someone he loved. Having horrific visions while you're awake, or equally horrific nightmares when you're asleep, can drive you crazy...even when you realize that they're not real. Dealing with similar issues myself and reading about Isaac's struggles, I can't help but wonder if it's even more frustrating for those of us who realize that those things AREN'T real. You start to question your state of mind by asking yourself, "Why would I even THINK that??!!" It's frightening. And that's not even including the social anxiety, having to struggle with yourself when you're surrounded by other people.
I was so, so, SO grateful for Grace. She was such a lovely character, made even more lovely when you discover how she's able to so easily interact with Isaac. She's selfless, encouraging, patient, and only wants the best for him, putting her own feelings to the side until Isaac is ready for her to share them with him. You don't meet people every day who make friends with other people regardless of what others would have to say. I only wish there were more people like her.
A compelling story, and a real eye opener that will challenge you to look at loners and social outcasts in a new light. In a world where the word "freak" is a blanket label for those who are different, stories like Isaac's will make those who are quick to make snap-judgments think twice.
June 25, 2015
"Side Effects" by Jennifer M. Barry is an important young adult work, because it captures a very real antagonist in vivid detail without abandoning story for message. Isaac Matthews suffers from anxiety disorder, and his treatment options are limited by his youth as well as fear of what the side effects may bring.
The first chapters come with an intensity that would be exhausting if it were the pace of the entire book. I don't say this critically, as this intensity highlights the realities of Isaac's plight and packs emotional punch to his setbacks and triumphs throughout the rest of the story. The author ties several true-to-life concerns in her protagonist's battle: the social stigma and general poor understanding of anxiety disorder, the dangers associated with treatment particularly in young people, and the need for sufferers to find a reason to face their fears and choose to be well.
Isaac's reason comes . His growth as a character is not a simple effect of popping a magic pill -- some of the medicines don't work for him and even make things worse. The themes come lovingly wrapped in an engaging story, and one many of us lived on some level, about the social perils of high school.
Recommended for anxiety disorder sufferers of all ages and lovers of YA novels.
The first chapters come with an intensity that would be exhausting if it were the pace of the entire book. I don't say this critically, as this intensity highlights the realities of Isaac's plight and packs emotional punch to his setbacks and triumphs throughout the rest of the story. The author ties several true-to-life concerns in her protagonist's battle: the social stigma and general poor understanding of anxiety disorder, the dangers associated with treatment particularly in young people, and the need for sufferers to find a reason to face their fears and choose to be well.
Isaac's reason comes . His growth as a character is not a simple effect of popping a magic pill -- some of the medicines don't work for him and even make things worse. The themes come lovingly wrapped in an engaging story, and one many of us lived on some level, about the social perils of high school.
Recommended for anxiety disorder sufferers of all ages and lovers of YA novels.
September 24, 2011
Ongoing review: Just started and Isaac...what a life this boy has...trying to get through the days...and NIGHTS...with extreme anxiety.
Couple that with the tormenting he receives at school and his life is hell.
We've just met Grace...and she's like a ray of sunshine to him. He SEES her...and is amazed that SHE sees HIM.
Page 151...things are looking up...which is good, because the angst at the beginning was very hard for me to read...and I imagine it was, IS, even harder for those with an anxiety disorder, to live through.
Done...what a journey...one that hurt as we see how badly Isaac feels at the beginning, but one that grows throughout these pages.
This reads "true". The fears that apply to medication and the fear of what how one could live without it. The fear that some of the SIDE EFFECTS will overwhelm you...and the fear that there isn't a way to just LIVE.
This was a journey of discovery and there is hope. If Isaac can survive, maybe another with an anxiety disorder can too.
Anyone who knows someone who suffers from anxiety attacks could learn from this book. And they can find hope here too.
Couple that with the tormenting he receives at school and his life is hell.
We've just met Grace...and she's like a ray of sunshine to him. He SEES her...and is amazed that SHE sees HIM.
Page 151...things are looking up...which is good, because the angst at the beginning was very hard for me to read...and I imagine it was, IS, even harder for those with an anxiety disorder, to live through.
Done...what a journey...one that hurt as we see how badly Isaac feels at the beginning, but one that grows throughout these pages.
This reads "true". The fears that apply to medication and the fear of what how one could live without it. The fear that some of the SIDE EFFECTS will overwhelm you...and the fear that there isn't a way to just LIVE.
This was a journey of discovery and there is hope. If Isaac can survive, maybe another with an anxiety disorder can too.
Anyone who knows someone who suffers from anxiety attacks could learn from this book. And they can find hope here too.
March 8, 2012
A wonderful story, built slowly, lovingly and delivered with Grace. I will admit, I was sceptical in the beginning. Grace seemed too good to be true, but I was sure a relative or close friend would be shown to have the same or similar difficulties as Isaac, and he was. It made the unbelievable patience and instant ease with which Grace 'handled' Isaac more realistic. The climax came so naturally, I almost got disappointed that there would be no BANG at the end, but there didn't need to be. There only needed to be a love and acceptance of self, which shone brightly.
Kudos, Jen, this is a marvelous novel.
Kudos, Jen, this is a marvelous novel.
September 25, 2011
Everyone remembers the difficulties of our high school years. Imagine going through that period with a debilitating disorder that makes you different from your peers and effectively cuts you off from any chance of having good friends, or simply enjoying yourself.
That’s the life of Isaac, the main character of Jennifer M. Barry’s “Side Effects.” Intelligent and perceptive, Isaac is isolated from his peers by a crippling anxiety disorder that manifests itself in an inability to take part in his own life. Many times, he can’t even summon the courage to speak to his classmates. Disturbing nightmares rob him of sleep, and he often dozes off in school. The other kids don’t know what to make of him, and he endures their taunts and indifference in stoic silence.
Isaac’s family is loving and supportive, but even they cannot ease the isolation he feels as a result of his disorder. The term “side effects” is poignant in its double meaning. It refers not only to the effects of the medication he tries for relief, but to the effect the anxiety disorder has on his entire life. It isn’t until Isaac meets Grace, a new girl at his high school, that he finds the strength to overcome these side effects, both emotional and medicinal.
Grace discerns Isaac’s worth even though he can’t easily express himself verbally. She intuitively knows the best ways to communicate with him, and how to help him feel safe enough to respond to her. Their friendship is truly the heart of “Side Effects,” and it’s deeply rewarding to see how Isaac blooms once their relationship takes flight. Grace sees the person and not the disorder, helping Isaac believe in his abilities and his worth.
Yes, there is a romantic element to the story, but Barry has written it as much more than that. “Side Effects” is really about a young man’s struggle to keep his illness from defining him. We see the real Isaac - a smart teenager and brilliant musician - grow more confident each time he wins another battle over his anxiety. Barry writes his story very effectively, pardon the pun. She skillfully lets Isaac gradually emerge from despair and disability, and it’s very nicely paced. At the same time, Isaac and Grace grow closer, though it’s not until the end that they admit their true feelings for each other. Barry wisely lets the friendship take center stage in most of the book, because this is where Isaac learns to trust both Grace and himself.
It’s not enough to say I enjoyed this novel. I loved the story and found myself rooting for the two young people who are at its core. The characters will stay with you for long after you finish “Side Effects.” I hope there is a sequel planned, because I truly feel that Isaac’s real story has just begun.
That’s the life of Isaac, the main character of Jennifer M. Barry’s “Side Effects.” Intelligent and perceptive, Isaac is isolated from his peers by a crippling anxiety disorder that manifests itself in an inability to take part in his own life. Many times, he can’t even summon the courage to speak to his classmates. Disturbing nightmares rob him of sleep, and he often dozes off in school. The other kids don’t know what to make of him, and he endures their taunts and indifference in stoic silence.
Isaac’s family is loving and supportive, but even they cannot ease the isolation he feels as a result of his disorder. The term “side effects” is poignant in its double meaning. It refers not only to the effects of the medication he tries for relief, but to the effect the anxiety disorder has on his entire life. It isn’t until Isaac meets Grace, a new girl at his high school, that he finds the strength to overcome these side effects, both emotional and medicinal.
Grace discerns Isaac’s worth even though he can’t easily express himself verbally. She intuitively knows the best ways to communicate with him, and how to help him feel safe enough to respond to her. Their friendship is truly the heart of “Side Effects,” and it’s deeply rewarding to see how Isaac blooms once their relationship takes flight. Grace sees the person and not the disorder, helping Isaac believe in his abilities and his worth.
Yes, there is a romantic element to the story, but Barry has written it as much more than that. “Side Effects” is really about a young man’s struggle to keep his illness from defining him. We see the real Isaac - a smart teenager and brilliant musician - grow more confident each time he wins another battle over his anxiety. Barry writes his story very effectively, pardon the pun. She skillfully lets Isaac gradually emerge from despair and disability, and it’s very nicely paced. At the same time, Isaac and Grace grow closer, though it’s not until the end that they admit their true feelings for each other. Barry wisely lets the friendship take center stage in most of the book, because this is where Isaac learns to trust both Grace and himself.
It’s not enough to say I enjoyed this novel. I loved the story and found myself rooting for the two young people who are at its core. The characters will stay with you for long after you finish “Side Effects.” I hope there is a sequel planned, because I truly feel that Isaac’s real story has just begun.
February 7, 2017
Wow.
Way to start off the year. One of my new favourite books, I absolutely loved every single thing about this book and the messages it portrays. I could honestly talk about this book forever and I can't wait to pick up the sequel! Thank you to Jennifer for sending me in exchange for an honest review.
This book surrounds a young boy named Isaac who suffers from severe anxiety and depression. He doesn't really have any friends at school, and is constantly bullied by his classmates and the 'popular jocks'. He barely even speaks two words to his parents, and he gets no sleep every night as he's terrified to go to sleep and experience the night terrors again.
When pretty, bubbly cheerleader Grace joins the school, she's instantly drawn to him and sets out to befriend him and show him what life is all about.
This book is so beautiful I honestly can't explain what it made me feel. The writing style was amazing, it kept me engaged and drawn in constantly, I thought about this book even when I wasn't reading it. It's rare for me to be fully connected to the characters but I was so enthralled with all of them, especially Isaac and I wanted what was best for him the whole time. This book made me so emotional but in such a good way, I don't even have words for it.
A full review will be posted tomorrow on http://adailycloud.blogspot.com because damn I need time to collect my thoughts properly.
Way to start off the year. One of my new favourite books, I absolutely loved every single thing about this book and the messages it portrays. I could honestly talk about this book forever and I can't wait to pick up the sequel! Thank you to Jennifer for sending me in exchange for an honest review.
This book surrounds a young boy named Isaac who suffers from severe anxiety and depression. He doesn't really have any friends at school, and is constantly bullied by his classmates and the 'popular jocks'. He barely even speaks two words to his parents, and he gets no sleep every night as he's terrified to go to sleep and experience the night terrors again.
When pretty, bubbly cheerleader Grace joins the school, she's instantly drawn to him and sets out to befriend him and show him what life is all about.
This book is so beautiful I honestly can't explain what it made me feel. The writing style was amazing, it kept me engaged and drawn in constantly, I thought about this book even when I wasn't reading it. It's rare for me to be fully connected to the characters but I was so enthralled with all of them, especially Isaac and I wanted what was best for him the whole time. This book made me so emotional but in such a good way, I don't even have words for it.
A full review will be posted tomorrow on http://adailycloud.blogspot.com because damn I need time to collect my thoughts properly.
April 2, 2012
Jennifer M. Barry’s Side Effects is a superb offering. It’s been a very long time since I’ve read a Young Adult Realistic Fiction of its caliber. The story of Isaac is that of the underdog, as he struggles through life with daily limitations caused by anxiety that most of us would be afraid to even imagine. Barry’s lovingly crafted characters allow the reader to empathize with their situations. Her thorough research makes the story credible. But her talent as a writer is what truly left me in awe. It’s not every day that you read a Young Adult novel that begins with the author paying homage to Edgar Allen Poe. Yet, Barry does it seemingly with ease. In fact, as I read it, the word “literature” came to mind several times. And I think that is a worthy description of this novel, because it is everything that a classic novel should be.
April 28, 2012
"Side Effects" by Jennifer M. Barry is a moving story of a young man struck by paralyzing anxiety disorder, facing real-life situations, which makes his condition even more difficult to deal with. Many young adults will be able to relate to Isaac's fear which may help them empathize and sympathize with issues many of their real-life friends may face. This book may help bring compassion and understanding where once there was pain and ridicule.
Also, Isaac's real healing comes it the form of friendship and love, not doctors, psychologists and pills. It's a message of hope and the story was truly engaging. The writing is excellent.
Highly recommended for readers of YA.
Also, Isaac's real healing comes it the form of friendship and love, not doctors, psychologists and pills. It's a message of hope and the story was truly engaging. The writing is excellent.
Highly recommended for readers of YA.
May 1, 2013
The frightening world of teenage anxiety disorders is rarely explored with the gripping intensity found in Side Effects. Jennifer M. Barry has created a quick read while keeping a strong message of hope and self-discovery that will last long after the final page has been finished.
July 11, 2012
Side Effects by Jennifer M Barry
4 Stars
Sixteen year old Isaac Matthews suffers from an unusually bad case of night terrors and as a result most nights he gets little or no sleep causing his days to be spent in a blur. When he wakes up one morning not remembering most of the last 2 months he decides it’s time to get help. Initially too young for drugs Isaac has to learn to cope with his debilitating anxiety attacks and deal with the normal high school dramas that all sixteen year olds have to go through.
‘Side effects’ is a very well researched detailed account of Isaacs life. The steadily paced drama describes to perfection the inner feelings of this young boy making it easy to connect with and feel for his character. He is a social leper and this YA book could go a long way to help young people realise we should not judge people for what we see because we really don’t know what is going on in their life. Isaac was lucky enough to have a couple of good friends, friends that were able to see beyond his issues and not only accept him but also try to help him. There are some very touching scenes when Isaac struggles to act on his feelings when he begins to fall for Grace; a very helpful and understanding new girl in the school. The story is realistic in the way that there is no sudden magic cure. Isaac doesn’t have a rapid recovery, instead it shows us that with help his condition is controllable and he can lead a normal life.
Mostly an interesting read but I did become a little bored hearing over and over Isaacs constant inner turmoil which may make me seem a little heartless knowing full well that some people do suffer these struggles for real.
Copy supplied for review
4 Stars
Sixteen year old Isaac Matthews suffers from an unusually bad case of night terrors and as a result most nights he gets little or no sleep causing his days to be spent in a blur. When he wakes up one morning not remembering most of the last 2 months he decides it’s time to get help. Initially too young for drugs Isaac has to learn to cope with his debilitating anxiety attacks and deal with the normal high school dramas that all sixteen year olds have to go through.
‘Side effects’ is a very well researched detailed account of Isaacs life. The steadily paced drama describes to perfection the inner feelings of this young boy making it easy to connect with and feel for his character. He is a social leper and this YA book could go a long way to help young people realise we should not judge people for what we see because we really don’t know what is going on in their life. Isaac was lucky enough to have a couple of good friends, friends that were able to see beyond his issues and not only accept him but also try to help him. There are some very touching scenes when Isaac struggles to act on his feelings when he begins to fall for Grace; a very helpful and understanding new girl in the school. The story is realistic in the way that there is no sudden magic cure. Isaac doesn’t have a rapid recovery, instead it shows us that with help his condition is controllable and he can lead a normal life.
Mostly an interesting read but I did become a little bored hearing over and over Isaacs constant inner turmoil which may make me seem a little heartless knowing full well that some people do suffer these struggles for real.
Copy supplied for review
January 16, 2012
Side Effects, by Jennifer M. Barry is a book that opens your mind to the troubles that people around you may be facing everyday, troubles of a kind you perhaps have no idea. It is about the impact one single person can have on the life of another human being, whether they are struggling or not. Isaac has an anxiety disorder, which could be described as a severe and painful 'limp of the soul'. Grace knows how to reach him and bring him out of his pain. In doing so she also brings herself into the sun. Even their friend David evolves into a braver and more colorful person through the friendship with Isaac. This is about how people can do so much to change life to the better for a fellow human being, just by being there.
This book touched me. High school is already a terrible thing to have to live through, but just imagine living it with anxiety attacks so severe you pass out? Or medication to treat the problem that only increases the problem tenfold?
We all need to read this book, and save a little love for the people around us, however they may appear, confident, sad, happy, anxious, scared, angry. So much can be done if you just Stand up for your friends. And Stand up for the ones that have no voice in society. They might become your friends. Scary thought, isn't it. Do I need to say I loved this?
This book touched me. High school is already a terrible thing to have to live through, but just imagine living it with anxiety attacks so severe you pass out? Or medication to treat the problem that only increases the problem tenfold?
We all need to read this book, and save a little love for the people around us, however they may appear, confident, sad, happy, anxious, scared, angry. So much can be done if you just Stand up for your friends. And Stand up for the ones that have no voice in society. They might become your friends. Scary thought, isn't it. Do I need to say I loved this?
September 23, 2011
I loved it...it was short but sweet. I wanted to tackle hug Isaac and Grace by the end of the book. I just knew things were going to turn out great. Jennifer did a really great job with telling Isaac's story and I can't wait to read more from her in the future :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2023
I thought it really captured both the feelings of anxiety and first love beautifully. I loved it.
September 10, 2024
this book makes me hehe in a way i’ve never hehe-d before. LOVE the anxiety rep cuz honestly real, but also LETS TALK ABT HOW CUTE ISAAC AND GRACE ARE. 10/10 book nom nom nom i ate it up yummy. :)
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March 20, 2012
The ending was sooooooo...... happy.
It's not a first, but definitely wasn't really catchy.
I don't know about anxiety disorders, but Isaac's is a bit scary to a certain point where he tries to *spoiler* kill himself!
And it's cute that he doesn't seem to see himself as 'handsome'....well, if one is a sight for bullying, it's really hard for one to see one's self as handsome.
And Grace.... she's too good to be true. Really. She's too..... good. You know? It's hard to believe but yeah, that's what she's portrayed.
Anyway, it was a good read, a passing. I'm suddenly looking forward to "strong and silent" type of guys...
:)
It's not a first, but definitely wasn't really catchy.
I don't know about anxiety disorders, but Isaac's is a bit scary to a certain point where he tries to *spoiler* kill himself!
And it's cute that he doesn't seem to see himself as 'handsome'....well, if one is a sight for bullying, it's really hard for one to see one's self as handsome.
And Grace.... she's too good to be true. Really. She's too..... good. You know? It's hard to believe but yeah, that's what she's portrayed.
Anyway, it was a good read, a passing. I'm suddenly looking forward to "strong and silent" type of guys...
:)
August 19, 2012
I absolutely adored this novel! I loved Isaac and Grace and their growing friendship. I recommend this book to anyone, boy or girl, who is/has dealt with an anxiety disorder. Jennifer Barry's writing style is beautiful and her characters were truly relatable and had much depth. A fabulous read!
May 9, 2013
This was an inspiring story of shy and anxiety ridden young man. Sometimes we just need that one person to say hello. Isaac and Grace are great even David back the friendship again. I loved this story.
April 13, 2016
Great story
Loved this book!! Such a cute romance. I also love how realistic the story is and how the buildup is slow placed ... The hero is definitely in unusual with his anxiety disorder and it makes this a unique book to read...
Loved this book!! Such a cute romance. I also love how realistic the story is and how the buildup is slow placed ... The hero is definitely in unusual with his anxiety disorder and it makes this a unique book to read...
April 10, 2012
Great read. Characters are believable and the reader is capatavated by their story. Loved it
August 23, 2013
Such a seriously moving book. As someone who struggles through the same, it's made me feel at peace almost.
April 6, 2013
This book opened my eyes to anxiety disorder. Easy to sink yourself into the lives of the characters. Well-written. Love this author!!
January 31, 2017
I read through a little of it. It's more for teenagers, and I'm 47, lol. But I have a Little Free Library in my front yard, and it will go in there. Thank you, so much!
June 6, 2020
FREE today (March 20, 2020) on Amazon.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews