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The Complete Opposite of Everything
The Complete Opposite of Everything is a story of two star-crossed university students, Adam and Yasmin, whose lives collide one day in a Beirut coffee shop. Adam is a young man who never gets scared, and doesnt cry. But, lately he cant stop crying and his anxiety is reaching alarming levels. His friend Rami, who wants to party all the time, is no help. When he meets Yasmin, reconnecting with her roots in Lebanon, he is offered a life-line. Yasmin is living with General Anxiety Disorder, and understands what Adam is going through, even when he doesnt. But can two people, both with minds that cant be fully trusted, stay together
316 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2018
6 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Nour Abou Fayad
1 book53 followersNour Abou Fayad is an author, copywriter, and cat mom to a demon and a precious idiot. She is an outspoken mental health advocate, using her social media platforms to raise awareness and break the stigma surrounding mental illness: @completeoppositeofeverything, @nouraboufayad.
The Complete Opposite of Everything is her debut New Adult novel.
The Complete Opposite of Everything is her debut New Adult novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 9, 2019
For those who usually read my reviews, this will come across as a surprise. I don't read YA, NA, or coming-of-age books. They're just not my usual cup'a Joe. And to be quite transparent, this book would have probably never made it to my radar had I not been very good friends with its author. I probably would've never read it, even if it had. The main reason is that I don't read modern Lebanese books as I have little faith in their topics or the talents behind them.
But this book did get on my radar.
And I did read it.
And I liked it.
And not because Tolkien is mentioned as a genius (though... we do not kid, that was a factor).
The Complete Opposite of Everything is a book that doesn't deal with the overly-milked yet consistently-expected-to-shock topics of the Lebanese Civil War, inter-religious marriages, abused orphan beggars, or prostitutes. That's your first hallelijah.
It deals with an issue that is possibly more taboo and (yes, believe you me) shockingly less exposed in Lebanese & Arab cultures. That's the issue of mental illness, and particularly for this book, anxiety.
Nour Abou Fayad's fiction is based on her nonfictional, very real struggles with anxiety, as well as Lebanese society's perception of this illness.
The book is narrated from the POV of its two main characters: Lebanese-born American-raised Yasmin and handsome, privileged Lebanese Adam.
Yasmin has parents who'd support and bolster her through a solar storm of teenage-level questionable decisions. Adam, on the other hand, doubles as the figurative punching bag and prized trophy of his family. Yet regardless of their starkly different backgrounds, both suffer from anxiety. And both are forced to deal with it in different ways.
At the time we're introduced to them, Yasmin is going on 5-or-so years of finally being able to control her thoughts and emotions. She has been to therapy for ages and has recently had her medication reduced, right around the time she moved back to Beirut. Her parents had constantly and consistently told her they were proud of her, of her struggles, and of her conquering them. And throughout the book, we witness a shocking and quite unfamiliar (to me at least) amount of parental support in every regard.
Moreover, Yasmin's your typical goodie-two-shoes, know-it-all. Or that's what the book's trying to portray. Some scenes, I'm sure, were meant to have us flustered with her attitude, with how she thinks and expects people's reactions and actions to stem from the same source as hers. Yet I never once felt annoyed over it. In fact, Yasmin was quite a believable, sweet, caring, and endearing character. And I quite support and relate to her steadfast attitude about certain things. I'm probably just as hot-headed about my own convictions.
In parallel, we meet Adam, who's just recently had his anxiety triggered in sparks and flairs. At this point, I'd like to point out the uncanny realization that I'm 80% the Adam in this pair (minus the crippling anxiety, privileged upbringing, and Y chromosome). He lost a parent and has been left with the less-than-expressive "other" parent. He has grown up in the "men don't cry" school, and the "follow you're parent's roadmap" club. He's reminded day in and day out of how difficult his parent's life was, how easy he's got it, and how much he needs to toughen up and stop whining. And most importantly, he's very, very Lebanese, in the sense that any form of unstable mental or emotional reaction gets filed out as "unhinged", "crazy", and "certifiably insane".
The relationship between Yasmin and Adam goes on to unfold in a severely toxic manner. Adam's typical Lebanese mentality hinders him from seeking out real help. Yasmin's typical caring personality drives her to take responsibility for making him better. And that takes a toll on both sides' mental issues.
In the end and on a very brief note, I liked how the story was tied up and closed off. As Nour herself would put it, it's not your typical "cookie cutter happy ending" and it leaves much hope, stability, and growth to the future.
Now, on to my personal opinions.
The book is quite the smooth and easy read. I went through it in 3 hours. But despite that, three scenes really stood out to me.
First was Yasmin retelling her final meltdown to Adam, describing the state her father found her in, his tears at being unable to help her, and his perfect support never wavering. Knowing Nour so closely and reading this with her face in mind made it all too real for me.
Second was the description of Adam's mother's funeral. It wasn't the scene itself but rather a certain vivid, almost comical, humanization of Death.
I'm sure, anyone can relate to the fear of losing a dear one. But I'm more sure that no one knows the intensified fear and trauma more than those who have lost a parent especially to sudden death, and I have.
The third scene was one that actually choked me a bit. Towards the end of the book, we find Adam finally crashing and bursting out, where his father is made to look him in the eye and witness the reality of his boy's situation. I am very aware that many people might not find this as touching. Some may even think it exaggerated. Yet if you've personally been through such a point in life, or maybe witness a loved one go through it, you'll feel the bitterness of such a situation and maybe imagine how you wished it panned out.
In a sense, while The Complete Opposite of Everything aims to spread mental health literacy through a fictional portrayal of the author's own very real struggles, it actually also exposes Lebanese taboos, stigmas, and closeted uncultured behavior that hide behind the banner of education, money, success, and privilege. It shows that, while many of us are lucky to have healthy and caring upbringings, many others do not and are made to hide in a closet and pretend life is rosy, prim, and proper with little love with it. But it also shows that having a healthy upbringing does not necessarily shelter you from the irrational twists and turns of your mind.
Knowing Nour personally made me pick up a book I'd never have thought of picking up otherwise. And while I can very honestly say that YA, NA, whateva-A genres shall never be up my ally, I'm quite thankful this book made it on my radar. Because I support the message this book is spreading wholeheartedly.
That mental illness is real.
That mental illness shouldn't be hidden or embarrassing.
That sometimes support doesn't come from a parent, and as painful as that is, it does not mean support does not exist.
That despite what you might feel for someone, relationships should never be a crutch, nor based on toxic dependence.
And that whoever has a mental illness should start by accepting it, embracing that as a fact, and seeking comfort - and help - where they can.
But this book did get on my radar.
And I did read it.
And I liked it.
And not because Tolkien is mentioned as a genius (though... we do not kid, that was a factor).
The Complete Opposite of Everything is a book that doesn't deal with the overly-milked yet consistently-expected-to-shock topics of the Lebanese Civil War, inter-religious marriages, abused orphan beggars, or prostitutes. That's your first hallelijah.
It deals with an issue that is possibly more taboo and (yes, believe you me) shockingly less exposed in Lebanese & Arab cultures. That's the issue of mental illness, and particularly for this book, anxiety.
Nour Abou Fayad's fiction is based on her nonfictional, very real struggles with anxiety, as well as Lebanese society's perception of this illness.
The book is narrated from the POV of its two main characters: Lebanese-born American-raised Yasmin and handsome, privileged Lebanese Adam.
Yasmin has parents who'd support and bolster her through a solar storm of teenage-level questionable decisions. Adam, on the other hand, doubles as the figurative punching bag and prized trophy of his family. Yet regardless of their starkly different backgrounds, both suffer from anxiety. And both are forced to deal with it in different ways.
At the time we're introduced to them, Yasmin is going on 5-or-so years of finally being able to control her thoughts and emotions. She has been to therapy for ages and has recently had her medication reduced, right around the time she moved back to Beirut. Her parents had constantly and consistently told her they were proud of her, of her struggles, and of her conquering them. And throughout the book, we witness a shocking and quite unfamiliar (to me at least) amount of parental support in every regard.
Moreover, Yasmin's your typical goodie-two-shoes, know-it-all. Or that's what the book's trying to portray. Some scenes, I'm sure, were meant to have us flustered with her attitude, with how she thinks and expects people's reactions and actions to stem from the same source as hers. Yet I never once felt annoyed over it. In fact, Yasmin was quite a believable, sweet, caring, and endearing character. And I quite support and relate to her steadfast attitude about certain things. I'm probably just as hot-headed about my own convictions.
In parallel, we meet Adam, who's just recently had his anxiety triggered in sparks and flairs. At this point, I'd like to point out the uncanny realization that I'm 80% the Adam in this pair (minus the crippling anxiety, privileged upbringing, and Y chromosome). He lost a parent and has been left with the less-than-expressive "other" parent. He has grown up in the "men don't cry" school, and the "follow you're parent's roadmap" club. He's reminded day in and day out of how difficult his parent's life was, how easy he's got it, and how much he needs to toughen up and stop whining. And most importantly, he's very, very Lebanese, in the sense that any form of unstable mental or emotional reaction gets filed out as "unhinged", "crazy", and "certifiably insane".
The relationship between Yasmin and Adam goes on to unfold in a severely toxic manner. Adam's typical Lebanese mentality hinders him from seeking out real help. Yasmin's typical caring personality drives her to take responsibility for making him better. And that takes a toll on both sides' mental issues.
In the end and on a very brief note, I liked how the story was tied up and closed off. As Nour herself would put it, it's not your typical "cookie cutter happy ending" and it leaves much hope, stability, and growth to the future.
Now, on to my personal opinions.
The book is quite the smooth and easy read. I went through it in 3 hours. But despite that, three scenes really stood out to me.
First was Yasmin retelling her final meltdown to Adam, describing the state her father found her in, his tears at being unable to help her, and his perfect support never wavering. Knowing Nour so closely and reading this with her face in mind made it all too real for me.
Second was the description of Adam's mother's funeral. It wasn't the scene itself but rather a certain vivid, almost comical, humanization of Death.
Death didn't even know their address, had never dropped by for a cup of coffee and left with one of them, and it had certainly never hinted at having its eye on his mother.
I'm sure, anyone can relate to the fear of losing a dear one. But I'm more sure that no one knows the intensified fear and trauma more than those who have lost a parent especially to sudden death, and I have.
The third scene was one that actually choked me a bit. Towards the end of the book, we find Adam finally crashing and bursting out, where his father is made to look him in the eye and witness the reality of his boy's situation. I am very aware that many people might not find this as touching. Some may even think it exaggerated. Yet if you've personally been through such a point in life, or maybe witness a loved one go through it, you'll feel the bitterness of such a situation and maybe imagine how you wished it panned out.
In a sense, while The Complete Opposite of Everything aims to spread mental health literacy through a fictional portrayal of the author's own very real struggles, it actually also exposes Lebanese taboos, stigmas, and closeted uncultured behavior that hide behind the banner of education, money, success, and privilege. It shows that, while many of us are lucky to have healthy and caring upbringings, many others do not and are made to hide in a closet and pretend life is rosy, prim, and proper with little love with it. But it also shows that having a healthy upbringing does not necessarily shelter you from the irrational twists and turns of your mind.
Knowing Nour personally made me pick up a book I'd never have thought of picking up otherwise. And while I can very honestly say that YA, NA, whateva-A genres shall never be up my ally, I'm quite thankful this book made it on my radar. Because I support the message this book is spreading wholeheartedly.
That mental illness is real.
That mental illness shouldn't be hidden or embarrassing.
That sometimes support doesn't come from a parent, and as painful as that is, it does not mean support does not exist.
That despite what you might feel for someone, relationships should never be a crutch, nor based on toxic dependence.
And that whoever has a mental illness should start by accepting it, embracing that as a fact, and seeking comfort - and help - where they can.
January 13, 2021
At some parts, I could’ve said that this book is a light read, but this wouldn’t be entirely true. I love how your brain goes through the same emotions the characters are feeling. Be it anxiety or panic, or just feeling at ease in a cafe or bookshop having random conversations that fill your heart with nothing but happiness. Enjoyed being on the rollercoaster of emotions through every phase the characters went through.
May 25, 2020
Well, how in the world do I begin. I have so much to say and I feel like I'm gonna end up saying nothing at all. This book was a rollercoaster of emotions. It circles around two main characters: Adam and Yasmin, who are both either in the thick of battling with anxiety and depression, or on their way towards that light at the end of the tunnel signaling the end of that unfortunate darkness.
Nour Abou Fayad was able to grab me by my woman-balls and drag me along with them through each step of their dive into troubling waters and desperate struggles to resurface.
"How" you might ask, well fortunately for you, I took the time to weed out all those beautifully terrifying parts of TCOE and decided to share them with the world (or well with the couple of readers who choose to take a look at my review).
1- And the noise.
The noise.
The noise.
It wouldn't stop.
The noise.
The noose.
The noise.
The thing about this part, is you don't see it until you see it, and once you see it you can't unsee it. I felt shivers down my spine at the word play displayed in these short yet powerful sentences. And that was only the beginning.
2- You're being intrusive and overbear-
Shut the hell up
The entirety of this book displays dialogues taking place internally. In this case, it was Yasmin showing off her (in my opinion) absolutely awesome superpowers. Yes, you heard me. Not all heroes (or heroines) wear capes. Actually, I take that back. I think Yasmin wears a gigantic balls-themed mental cape that she flounces around whenever that dark voice inside her head decides to resurface. We all need a mini mental Yasmin if I'm being honest.
3- "My life is the complete opposite of everything I want it to be. Every instinct I have, in aspect of life, be it something to wear, something to eat - it's all been wrong."
In case you were wondering what that awesome book title was all about, well here it is. I also feel that could be the title of life.. Just saying.
4- Come shake hands with my demons, mother.
Absolutely heartbreaking and terrifying. I don't have much to say about this sentence, it speaks for itself.
5- " [...] But you're the sun, in all its literal sense. [...] And I'm in your solar system now and you keep me in orbit, you give me order [...]"
I don't want anyone ever calling me their Sun if that's not what they mean by it. But also, I don't want anyone ever calling me their Sun if that is what they mean by it. That early in the book I felt like this quote was absolutely beautiful and heart warming and swoons in the background. But now that I think about it, this sentence showcases JUST how much Adam is dependent on Yasmin. Everyone is a Sun, and it shouldn't be people in their orbit, but beautiful memories they have collected, beautiful thoughts they are holding on to, dark moons they are keeping in check and everything in between. But not people.
6- "[...] before this started, I was looking at the world through rose-colored glasses, right? And then, out of nowhere, my anxiety pried them off my face onto the floor, stomped on them, laughed in my face, and told me I'd never look at anything the same way again. And it was right. But what it didn't know is there are ways to fix those glasses. I just picked up some glue and put the pieces back together. Only now the glasses have these weird cracks in them and missing pieces that were lost forever. But that's okay, because now I see through a kaleidoscope, almost. I see good and I see ugly and I see silver linings in between. Does that make sense?"
Yes, yes, Yasmin. It really does. This quote sums the book for me. It is only through the cracks that light can seep in. Everyone has cracks in their glasses and that's what makes humans that much more interesting. Thank you Nour for this incredible description of something people find impossible to understand.
7- "[...] I'm not the one who's going to help you through it. You are. Don't get things mixed up."
Come on Adam, and whoever is reading this, let's start working on those mental capes. We all need them. You heard her.
8- This one isn't particularly an excerpt of the book. It's more like an observation. I absolutely love how the entire book seems to be one long conversation that never lets up. Where Adam falters, Yasmin takes the wheel and vice versa. And if it's neither of them then it's the saboteur or any one of those terrible or inspiring voices inside their heads. Just thought I'd point that out and marvel at Nour's beautiful writing abilities.
9- "[...] I feel like before, I was passing through life with eyes half shut and a mind that was numb and asleep half of the time."
Anyone who has struggled with anxiety or depression knows what Yasmin is talking about in this sentence.
10- Here's another observation: I had NO CLUE how to deal with someone who has anxiety. It was always hard for me because I thought that everything I would try to do would end up being the wrong thing and would make things worse. Turns out I just had to be patient and understanding. Show them I am not here to judge. To be a rock and a constant. Thanks Yasmin.
11- I hate Rami and all the Rami-s of this world. Thank you, next.
12- " [your thoughts] They're lying."
Reading this book has explained so much to me. I can't believe I didn't know my brain had the ability to lie to me. Eum... RUDE??! At least I'm glad I know now. Shut up brain.
13- Nothing would stop. He was charging into the abyss
That moment between Adam and his dad had me choking on sobs and thanking God for having parents who understood mental illness. It terrified me to see Adam fall so deep and feel like he had nothing left. So many Lebanese people are going through this and I have no clue how they manage in such a country. Reading this book could literally save lives. Yes, I said it.
14- The ending.
The ending was everything to me. Nour Abou Fayad did not end it on a happy all is right with the world let's kiss and have kids note. No, she ended it on a "...". This ending is exactly what real life is about, and how it should be portrayed in books. It left me wanting more. Thank you Nour, again and again, for pouring your heart out and allowing yourself to be vulnerable so that less people would have to, and more people would understand.
Nour Abou Fayad was able to grab me by my woman-balls and drag me along with them through each step of their dive into troubling waters and desperate struggles to resurface.
"How" you might ask, well fortunately for you, I took the time to weed out all those beautifully terrifying parts of TCOE and decided to share them with the world (or well with the couple of readers who choose to take a look at my review).
1- And the noise.
The noise.
The noise.
It wouldn't stop.
The noise.
The noose.
The noise.
The thing about this part, is you don't see it until you see it, and once you see it you can't unsee it. I felt shivers down my spine at the word play displayed in these short yet powerful sentences. And that was only the beginning.
2- You're being intrusive and overbear-
Shut the hell up
The entirety of this book displays dialogues taking place internally. In this case, it was Yasmin showing off her (in my opinion) absolutely awesome superpowers. Yes, you heard me. Not all heroes (or heroines) wear capes. Actually, I take that back. I think Yasmin wears a gigantic balls-themed mental cape that she flounces around whenever that dark voice inside her head decides to resurface. We all need a mini mental Yasmin if I'm being honest.
3- "My life is the complete opposite of everything I want it to be. Every instinct I have, in aspect of life, be it something to wear, something to eat - it's all been wrong."
In case you were wondering what that awesome book title was all about, well here it is. I also feel that could be the title of life.. Just saying.
4- Come shake hands with my demons, mother.
Absolutely heartbreaking and terrifying. I don't have much to say about this sentence, it speaks for itself.
5- " [...] But you're the sun, in all its literal sense. [...] And I'm in your solar system now and you keep me in orbit, you give me order [...]"
I don't want anyone ever calling me their Sun if that's not what they mean by it. But also, I don't want anyone ever calling me their Sun if that is what they mean by it. That early in the book I felt like this quote was absolutely beautiful and heart warming and swoons in the background. But now that I think about it, this sentence showcases JUST how much Adam is dependent on Yasmin. Everyone is a Sun, and it shouldn't be people in their orbit, but beautiful memories they have collected, beautiful thoughts they are holding on to, dark moons they are keeping in check and everything in between. But not people.
6- "[...] before this started, I was looking at the world through rose-colored glasses, right? And then, out of nowhere, my anxiety pried them off my face onto the floor, stomped on them, laughed in my face, and told me I'd never look at anything the same way again. And it was right. But what it didn't know is there are ways to fix those glasses. I just picked up some glue and put the pieces back together. Only now the glasses have these weird cracks in them and missing pieces that were lost forever. But that's okay, because now I see through a kaleidoscope, almost. I see good and I see ugly and I see silver linings in between. Does that make sense?"
Yes, yes, Yasmin. It really does. This quote sums the book for me. It is only through the cracks that light can seep in. Everyone has cracks in their glasses and that's what makes humans that much more interesting. Thank you Nour for this incredible description of something people find impossible to understand.
7- "[...] I'm not the one who's going to help you through it. You are. Don't get things mixed up."
Come on Adam, and whoever is reading this, let's start working on those mental capes. We all need them. You heard her.
8- This one isn't particularly an excerpt of the book. It's more like an observation. I absolutely love how the entire book seems to be one long conversation that never lets up. Where Adam falters, Yasmin takes the wheel and vice versa. And if it's neither of them then it's the saboteur or any one of those terrible or inspiring voices inside their heads. Just thought I'd point that out and marvel at Nour's beautiful writing abilities.
9- "[...] I feel like before, I was passing through life with eyes half shut and a mind that was numb and asleep half of the time."
Anyone who has struggled with anxiety or depression knows what Yasmin is talking about in this sentence.
10- Here's another observation: I had NO CLUE how to deal with someone who has anxiety. It was always hard for me because I thought that everything I would try to do would end up being the wrong thing and would make things worse. Turns out I just had to be patient and understanding. Show them I am not here to judge. To be a rock and a constant. Thanks Yasmin.
11- I hate Rami and all the Rami-s of this world. Thank you, next.
12- " [your thoughts] They're lying."
Reading this book has explained so much to me. I can't believe I didn't know my brain had the ability to lie to me. Eum... RUDE??! At least I'm glad I know now. Shut up brain.
13- Nothing would stop. He was charging into the abyss
That moment between Adam and his dad had me choking on sobs and thanking God for having parents who understood mental illness. It terrified me to see Adam fall so deep and feel like he had nothing left. So many Lebanese people are going through this and I have no clue how they manage in such a country. Reading this book could literally save lives. Yes, I said it.
14- The ending.
The ending was everything to me. Nour Abou Fayad did not end it on a happy all is right with the world let's kiss and have kids note. No, she ended it on a "...". This ending is exactly what real life is about, and how it should be portrayed in books. It left me wanting more. Thank you Nour, again and again, for pouring your heart out and allowing yourself to be vulnerable so that less people would have to, and more people would understand.
March 28, 2022
I didn't know authors could rate their own books until I got back into rating on Goodreads so here's what I think of my book! It's a beauty and a much-needed subject to be delved into and unraveled in our region. Adam is so precious to me, and I want to protect him at all costs. He's flawed and lost and I just want to hug him and tell him it gets better, even when everything around him is screaming otherwise.
The book was so therapeutic to write and helped me tackle my own demons and come to terms with my mental illness. I never thought I would ever write a book, let alone something so personal and poignant. I'm elated I did and I hope whoever reads it feels every word and understands the importance of them.
The book was so therapeutic to write and helped me tackle my own demons and come to terms with my mental illness. I never thought I would ever write a book, let alone something so personal and poignant. I'm elated I did and I hope whoever reads it feels every word and understands the importance of them.
April 10, 2021
If you're looking for a book about mental health from a local perspective then you came to the right place.
what kept me reading was the Beirut feel to it. It really gave me a bit of nostalgia for Hamra and my old uni days.
Usually, I'm not a big fan of books without a lot of “plot to it” but I still managed to enjoy it and read through it.
I’m more of a fiction reader with lots of adventure and plot... so this was a lot calmer for me.
what kept me reading was the Beirut feel to it. It really gave me a bit of nostalgia for Hamra and my old uni days.
Usually, I'm not a big fan of books without a lot of “plot to it” but I still managed to enjoy it and read through it.
I’m more of a fiction reader with lots of adventure and plot... so this was a lot calmer for me.
May 25, 2021
I can't find enough words to write a review that would actually live up to how touching and amazing this book is!
November 16, 2019
I just finished the book and I am forever changed.
I loved every part of it and how Nour perfectly described (in every detail) exactly what goes on in any anxious person’s head and the thoughts that occur during panic attacks.
First, I love how it makes you feel, even if it’s to a somewhat lesser extent, that you are not alone, at least in the way you think (or overthink to that matter) at times when you feel the loneliest and the most scared.
Also, i love how realistic it is; how close to our reality as Lebanese youth it is. Down to the smallest detail of our everyday lives (be it the parties, the coffee shops, the streey beggars, the pubs, ..etc).
Everything you think about, even very briefly, when going about your daily routines, she puts in beautiful words and describes perfectly as you would picture it. Not to mention how she describes the Lebanese people and culture as well, especially Lebanese guys and the problems that the Lebanese society (for the most part) faces when talking about (or even thinking about) any kind of mental illness whatsoever.
For someone who suffers from mental illness, no matter how severe, it’s amazing how accurate her descriptions are and how it makes you feel less alone in the way your brain is wired and very much understood (which doesn’t happen quite at all in our society).
For someone with loved ones who suffer from mental illness, it gives you a detailed and accurate representation of everything that might go through your loved one’s head and tricks on how you can be there for them and help them overcome it efficiently (most importantly including what to avoid doing and what you shouldnt taking personally, something most people do unintentionally).
Even for people who simply reject the idea of any mental illness being an “actual” illness and considering its victimes to be “drama-queens” or just plain crazy (and we do have a lot of those in Lebanon), she gives a raw and too-close-to-reality idea of why it should be taken much more seriously and how important it is to raise and keep raising awareness on the topic of mental health especially in Lebanon.
All in all, I am definitely recommending this book to as many people as possible to raise awareness, or simply to be a friend who understands when you need one.
Everything about it is bittersweet and a rollercoaster of emotions at the same time. All too real, it is the first book that ever made me cry while reading in my entire life.
Thank you Nour for putting it in words.
Already cannot wait for your next book
I loved every part of it and how Nour perfectly described (in every detail) exactly what goes on in any anxious person’s head and the thoughts that occur during panic attacks.
First, I love how it makes you feel, even if it’s to a somewhat lesser extent, that you are not alone, at least in the way you think (or overthink to that matter) at times when you feel the loneliest and the most scared.
Also, i love how realistic it is; how close to our reality as Lebanese youth it is. Down to the smallest detail of our everyday lives (be it the parties, the coffee shops, the streey beggars, the pubs, ..etc).
Everything you think about, even very briefly, when going about your daily routines, she puts in beautiful words and describes perfectly as you would picture it. Not to mention how she describes the Lebanese people and culture as well, especially Lebanese guys and the problems that the Lebanese society (for the most part) faces when talking about (or even thinking about) any kind of mental illness whatsoever.
For someone who suffers from mental illness, no matter how severe, it’s amazing how accurate her descriptions are and how it makes you feel less alone in the way your brain is wired and very much understood (which doesn’t happen quite at all in our society).
For someone with loved ones who suffer from mental illness, it gives you a detailed and accurate representation of everything that might go through your loved one’s head and tricks on how you can be there for them and help them overcome it efficiently (most importantly including what to avoid doing and what you shouldnt taking personally, something most people do unintentionally).
Even for people who simply reject the idea of any mental illness being an “actual” illness and considering its victimes to be “drama-queens” or just plain crazy (and we do have a lot of those in Lebanon), she gives a raw and too-close-to-reality idea of why it should be taken much more seriously and how important it is to raise and keep raising awareness on the topic of mental health especially in Lebanon.
All in all, I am definitely recommending this book to as many people as possible to raise awareness, or simply to be a friend who understands when you need one.
Everything about it is bittersweet and a rollercoaster of emotions at the same time. All too real, it is the first book that ever made me cry while reading in my entire life.
Thank you Nour for putting it in words.
Already cannot wait for your next book
December 27, 2019
When I first started seeing people posting online about this book, I got extremely excited because finally, there is a book by a young Lebanese author that does not focus on war and, instead, deals with the issue of mental health (more specifically: anxiety). Reading the book was a breeze, honestly. It is easy to follow, and has a simple language that an average reader would enjoy.
Many issues were dealt with: notably the issues of toxic masculinity, friendship, generational gap, death, trauma, attachement... all in relation to mental health. It is important to see these topics being mentioned in a book in Lebanon by a Lebanese author to a Lebanese and Arab/Middle Eastern public.
The book's plot is very simple and doesn't include much subplots and side characters. Just enough for one to hate some and love some (one: Lara. She's seriously my favorite character, even if secondary--possibly tertiary?).
The events of the novel are realistic, relatable, and quite attainable by an average university student in Lebanon. Finally, there is a book a 90s, 2000s kid could read and feel like he/she/they are included and focused on (not war and recovery from war).
On the negative side, however, I do find that this book had it's "seriously?" moments, but that's just subjective. Many times the description of things got a bit too much for a New Adult book and at some points it might have gotten too technical (not with the mental health issues of course, but with other things). This is a fictional novel for an average young reader after all. In my opinion, there wasn't much of a need to get very technical in some situations (Adam eating a pancake and coffee and how they mixed in his stomach for example). I like specificity in fiction, but maybe at times it was too specific and uncalled for.
In conclusion, I believe that this book might not be one that will maybe taught in classes for it's literary canon, but it is one that would launch the talk on anxiety and mental health. It is probably one of the most important books of 2019. The Lebanese and Middle Eastern public is in much need for such a book and such a topic to be discussed.
All the love, appreciation, and respect for the author, editor, and publishing house for takinf this step into making the world a slightly better place by starting this conversation.
Many issues were dealt with: notably the issues of toxic masculinity, friendship, generational gap, death, trauma, attachement... all in relation to mental health. It is important to see these topics being mentioned in a book in Lebanon by a Lebanese author to a Lebanese and Arab/Middle Eastern public.
The book's plot is very simple and doesn't include much subplots and side characters. Just enough for one to hate some and love some (one: Lara. She's seriously my favorite character, even if secondary--possibly tertiary?).
The events of the novel are realistic, relatable, and quite attainable by an average university student in Lebanon. Finally, there is a book a 90s, 2000s kid could read and feel like he/she/they are included and focused on (not war and recovery from war).
On the negative side, however, I do find that this book had it's "seriously?" moments, but that's just subjective. Many times the description of things got a bit too much for a New Adult book and at some points it might have gotten too technical (not with the mental health issues of course, but with other things). This is a fictional novel for an average young reader after all. In my opinion, there wasn't much of a need to get very technical in some situations (Adam eating a pancake and coffee and how they mixed in his stomach for example). I like specificity in fiction, but maybe at times it was too specific and uncalled for.
In conclusion, I believe that this book might not be one that will maybe taught in classes for it's literary canon, but it is one that would launch the talk on anxiety and mental health. It is probably one of the most important books of 2019. The Lebanese and Middle Eastern public is in much need for such a book and such a topic to be discussed.
All the love, appreciation, and respect for the author, editor, and publishing house for takinf this step into making the world a slightly better place by starting this conversation.
December 17, 2019
As a person who grew up reading the classics from the Harry Potter series to anything Rainbow Rowell or Markus Zusak, I think of myself as someone who appreciates a good book and good literature all in all. 'The Complete Opposite of Everything' was one of those books I finished in one sitting.
Firstly, the author's writing style is impeccable. Her vivid descriptions and small details make the book come alive. A good book for me is one I can drown in and picture in front of me as I'm reading, and this book did that perfectly.
Secondly, it tackles such an important issue, which is mental health, but in such a fun young adult way wrapping it up in a cute sort of love story. The author gives you the info needed about mental health and raises awareness, while getting you so involved in the amazing plot and characters.
Finally, this book for me is one that belongs on a best seller shelf because of the perfect style, plot, theme, and the way it tackles such a sensitive and crucial topic.
I definitely recommend this book as it was a huge enlightening experience for me!
Firstly, the author's writing style is impeccable. Her vivid descriptions and small details make the book come alive. A good book for me is one I can drown in and picture in front of me as I'm reading, and this book did that perfectly.
Secondly, it tackles such an important issue, which is mental health, but in such a fun young adult way wrapping it up in a cute sort of love story. The author gives you the info needed about mental health and raises awareness, while getting you so involved in the amazing plot and characters.
Finally, this book for me is one that belongs on a best seller shelf because of the perfect style, plot, theme, and the way it tackles such a sensitive and crucial topic.
I definitely recommend this book as it was a huge enlightening experience for me!
November 21, 2019
I got this book yesterday, finished it in one sitting.
I was so taken by the details and the accuracy that would allow people that are intimate with such issues to see aspects of themselves through the pages and thos who don't know about such struggles get familiar with some idea of what happens to and in the head of an anxious person. I couldn't let it go out of my hand i wanted to know what happens and i couldn't wait to see how it all ends. And i can tell you for a fact that i was nowhere near disappointed. From now on i have a clear answer to the question: what's your favourite book?
It is The Complete Opposite of Everything by the amazingly talented Nour Abou Fayad who left us with extremely high expectations when it comes to her next masterpieces.
I was so taken by the details and the accuracy that would allow people that are intimate with such issues to see aspects of themselves through the pages and thos who don't know about such struggles get familiar with some idea of what happens to and in the head of an anxious person. I couldn't let it go out of my hand i wanted to know what happens and i couldn't wait to see how it all ends. And i can tell you for a fact that i was nowhere near disappointed. From now on i have a clear answer to the question: what's your favourite book?
It is The Complete Opposite of Everything by the amazingly talented Nour Abou Fayad who left us with extremely high expectations when it comes to her next masterpieces.
October 27, 2022
This is a very well written book that takes you in the minds of two relatable characters.
Mental illness in Lebanon is still not recognised as it should be. Mental illness, and more specifically anxiety, is hard to understand when someone does not go through it. That’s why I would very much like to thank Nour for making this book approachable and relatable to both those who go through anxiety and those who don't. It is both informative and emotionally attractive.
The scene where Adam gets a panic attack in front of his father particularly touched me to the point where my tears shared Adam’s pain. The ending is not far-fetched at all and stays within the realm of reality making it an amazing book.
Mental illness in Lebanon is still not recognised as it should be. Mental illness, and more specifically anxiety, is hard to understand when someone does not go through it. That’s why I would very much like to thank Nour for making this book approachable and relatable to both those who go through anxiety and those who don't. It is both informative and emotionally attractive.
The scene where Adam gets a panic attack in front of his father particularly touched me to the point where my tears shared Adam’s pain. The ending is not far-fetched at all and stays within the realm of reality making it an amazing book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2019
This left me in tears because it touched my heart in ways no other book has. I won’t go into spoilers but this is definitely worth picking up.
April 19, 2021
First book i ever finish, and as someone who doesn’t read and finish a book in 4 days, imagine how hooked i was!
The story is incredible, gets you super attached to the characters as if you’re friends with them and just wanna know what’s going on with them today.
Adam and Yasmin are both super special characters, they’re the push and pull kind that keeps on giving you the “just one more page” feel.
What gets you hooked is the shift between characters giving each their own space and putting you, the reader, in a bubble with that character.
It can take you in depth through the life of people with mental illnesses, shedding the light over how it feels, and how the world looks like to these people; how in addition to what they’re going through, they have to face the negativity of people around them thinking that they’re fine and they’re just being a little dramatic.
The dialogue between Adam and Yasmin with their saboteurs is heartbreaking!
Never imagined I’d be this emotional over reading a book which is letting out my happiness and sadness, heartbreak and affection, just literally every single emotion through and fro those papers.
Nour Abou Fayad wrote a masterpiece that made me appreciate the time i need to spend reading.
This book will forever be a special one for me, totally is a good read.
The story is incredible, gets you super attached to the characters as if you’re friends with them and just wanna know what’s going on with them today.
Adam and Yasmin are both super special characters, they’re the push and pull kind that keeps on giving you the “just one more page” feel.
What gets you hooked is the shift between characters giving each their own space and putting you, the reader, in a bubble with that character.
It can take you in depth through the life of people with mental illnesses, shedding the light over how it feels, and how the world looks like to these people; how in addition to what they’re going through, they have to face the negativity of people around them thinking that they’re fine and they’re just being a little dramatic.
The dialogue between Adam and Yasmin with their saboteurs is heartbreaking!
Never imagined I’d be this emotional over reading a book which is letting out my happiness and sadness, heartbreak and affection, just literally every single emotion through and fro those papers.
Nour Abou Fayad wrote a masterpiece that made me appreciate the time i need to spend reading.
This book will forever be a special one for me, totally is a good read.
February 9, 2021
I usually withdraw from Lebanese writers, but this one...
is a 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝘃𝘆, 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝘃𝘆 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸. For starters, it follows the story of two people and their mental health: Adam who’s still suffering from trauma, depression, and anxiety and Yasmin who’s recovered/is on the road to recovery. Yasmin is the only one who can understand Adam in a society and culture that doesn’t accept him. Throughout the whole book, I kept thinking about one sentence that describes their situation: “𝙃𝙚’𝙨 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙪𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚.”
Basically, this book takes you into a roller coaster of emotions and what goes on inside an anxious person’s head.
Nour shaped the plot beautifully. From focusing on the smallest details such as our everyday routines, to the way (Lebanese) society does not accept anxious people and mental disorders.
I went into the book thinking it would change me entirely, change my perspective. And it did in some ways, just not how I imagined it would. It made me realize that Adam is me. His fights, his mind, his anxiety, his way of coping with it; they’re all me. And I never knew how much it’s affecting me until I’ve read this book.
I may not suffer from severe mental illness, but I do have anxiety and I found myself acting the same way as Adam and having the same thoughts.
This book taught me that it’s okay to not be in a good mental health as long as you have the will to change that. It taught me that every person is fighting something, and it made me pay attention to how I should deal with them.
The fact that the author herself has experienced such struggles makes the book ten times more real. I truly believe that writers can produce the most enticing pieces from their pain.
Finally, I did not expect the ending. I loved what Nour did with it, it made the journey even more realistic.
is a 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝘃𝘆, 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝘃𝘆 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸. For starters, it follows the story of two people and their mental health: Adam who’s still suffering from trauma, depression, and anxiety and Yasmin who’s recovered/is on the road to recovery. Yasmin is the only one who can understand Adam in a society and culture that doesn’t accept him. Throughout the whole book, I kept thinking about one sentence that describes their situation: “𝙃𝙚’𝙨 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙪𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚.”
Basically, this book takes you into a roller coaster of emotions and what goes on inside an anxious person’s head.
Nour shaped the plot beautifully. From focusing on the smallest details such as our everyday routines, to the way (Lebanese) society does not accept anxious people and mental disorders.
I went into the book thinking it would change me entirely, change my perspective. And it did in some ways, just not how I imagined it would. It made me realize that Adam is me. His fights, his mind, his anxiety, his way of coping with it; they’re all me. And I never knew how much it’s affecting me until I’ve read this book.
I may not suffer from severe mental illness, but I do have anxiety and I found myself acting the same way as Adam and having the same thoughts.
This book taught me that it’s okay to not be in a good mental health as long as you have the will to change that. It taught me that every person is fighting something, and it made me pay attention to how I should deal with them.
The fact that the author herself has experienced such struggles makes the book ten times more real. I truly believe that writers can produce the most enticing pieces from their pain.
Finally, I did not expect the ending. I loved what Nour did with it, it made the journey even more realistic.
November 29, 2021
This book was the first one I got after my book buying ban, I was excited to read it since I'm so interested in books that tackle mental illness.
Anxiety is such a sensitive topic to write about but @nourinwonderland did a great job in doing so!
I enjoyed the story, it was emotional, fast paced and well developed.
I liked that it was set in Lebanon and almost all the places were familiar.
Adam and Yasmin were so lovely together and the road trips were amazing... I just wanted to jump inside the book and go and explore with them.
But what i liked the most was the ending!
When I finished it, I was angry but then when I thought about it, I realised it was so realistic.
I learned from this book, that YOU are the one who should start healing yourself, and then eventually people will come and help you in the process. That going to a therapist is as normal as going to a doctor.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH ARE EQUALLY IMPORTANT
Thank you Nour for this great book! Cannot wait to read more of your writings.
Best of luck♡
Anxiety is such a sensitive topic to write about but @nourinwonderland did a great job in doing so!
I enjoyed the story, it was emotional, fast paced and well developed.
I liked that it was set in Lebanon and almost all the places were familiar.
Adam and Yasmin were so lovely together and the road trips were amazing... I just wanted to jump inside the book and go and explore with them.
But what i liked the most was the ending!
When I finished it, I was angry but then when I thought about it, I realised it was so realistic.
I learned from this book, that YOU are the one who should start healing yourself, and then eventually people will come and help you in the process. That going to a therapist is as normal as going to a doctor.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH ARE EQUALLY IMPORTANT
Thank you Nour for this great book! Cannot wait to read more of your writings.
Best of luck♡
November 1, 2024
I was very excited for this book and you know what? It lived up to my expectations.
The tale of Adam and Yasmin, two people struggling with their mental health who meet and spark a friendship that is both inspiring and realistic.
Nour, thank you for writing this book. The Lebanese youth need to read it, as well as our parents (perhaps even our Tetas and Jeddos).
Spreading awareness in Lebanon about mental health is very important, but not many people have the means to do it. With her simple yet sharp way of writing, Nour has portrayed a very realistic and scary picture of how people with mental health issues feel on the daily.
And I think this scary feeling I got was really important; it made me sympathize and understand more.
It's not all dark though, as Nour so cleverly highlights the simple beauty of Lebanese life and its aspects. TCOOE is officially the Mashrou' Leila of my bookshelf.
Please write another book!
The tale of Adam and Yasmin, two people struggling with their mental health who meet and spark a friendship that is both inspiring and realistic.
Nour, thank you for writing this book. The Lebanese youth need to read it, as well as our parents (perhaps even our Tetas and Jeddos).
Spreading awareness in Lebanon about mental health is very important, but not many people have the means to do it. With her simple yet sharp way of writing, Nour has portrayed a very realistic and scary picture of how people with mental health issues feel on the daily.
And I think this scary feeling I got was really important; it made me sympathize and understand more.
It's not all dark though, as Nour so cleverly highlights the simple beauty of Lebanese life and its aspects. TCOOE is officially the Mashrou' Leila of my bookshelf.
Please write another book!
August 14, 2021
Giving this book a range between 3.5 and 4.
I really enjoyed reading it because of the obvious reason that it's set in Lebanon and it has Lebanese characters but what I really loved was how much light it shed on mental illness especially for the Lebanese community that has read it or plans to read it because mental illness is rarely ever mentioned in our society in a good way. It helped realise that I'm actually a person who suffers from anxiety and has panic attacks. It helped me label my feelings, let me know I'm not alone and that it's completely normal.
Now to be less dramatic, I went for 3.5 because of Adam and Yasmin's story. I felt like there's something missing there, that I wanted more for them.
Overall, and taking into consideration that it's the author's first book, it's a really good one and I'm glad I found out about it and read it.
I really enjoyed reading it because of the obvious reason that it's set in Lebanon and it has Lebanese characters but what I really loved was how much light it shed on mental illness especially for the Lebanese community that has read it or plans to read it because mental illness is rarely ever mentioned in our society in a good way. It helped realise that I'm actually a person who suffers from anxiety and has panic attacks. It helped me label my feelings, let me know I'm not alone and that it's completely normal.
Now to be less dramatic, I went for 3.5 because of Adam and Yasmin's story. I felt like there's something missing there, that I wanted more for them.
Overall, and taking into consideration that it's the author's first book, it's a really good one and I'm glad I found out about it and read it.
September 12, 2021
S:2/7/21
F:6/7/21
This book was incredible.
I love psychology but stories with psychology usually end up giving me a headache because of the terrible representation.
This book was an exception.
I
Loved
It
It took me a few pages to get into (bcz I was in a slump) but after the initial hesitation I dove in .
First of all the representation of mental health is great and the mixture of our culture was adorable .
Two; this book is something everyone should read specifically Lebanese people that still tabbo mental health.
I wanted to kill rami so bad . I swear that man had me screaming into my pillow out of pure anger.
The characters were great and Adam's obsession with coffee (specifically that it's not decaf) is relatable and all of the sitcoms references were just the cherry on top
F:6/7/21
This book was incredible.
I love psychology but stories with psychology usually end up giving me a headache because of the terrible representation.
This book was an exception.
I
Loved
It
It took me a few pages to get into (bcz I was in a slump) but after the initial hesitation I dove in .
First of all the representation of mental health is great and the mixture of our culture was adorable .
Two; this book is something everyone should read specifically Lebanese people that still tabbo mental health.
I wanted to kill rami so bad . I swear that man had me screaming into my pillow out of pure anger.
The characters were great and Adam's obsession with coffee (specifically that it's not decaf) is relatable and all of the sitcoms references were just the cherry on top
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
April 9, 2022I smiled, laughed and cried while reading this book. The story is so real. Adam and Yasmin could be any one of us. It’s not just another book you read, it’s one that touches the soul deeply. You can,while reading, and if you are/were a person who suffers from anxiety or depression, you can feel their pain inside you, you can really understand what they’re talking about.
I loved it❤️ it also shows that sometimes even the closest people to you won’t understand what you’re passing through but a total stranger can help you in ways no one has ever helped before.
There’s a lot of deep significance in this book. Like it shows that even if you’re passing through hell, there’s always light at the end of it. Keep your head up, cause sometimes the most awful times you go through might be building you up to the better strongest person you should be!!!
I loved it❤️ it also shows that sometimes even the closest people to you won’t understand what you’re passing through but a total stranger can help you in ways no one has ever helped before.
There’s a lot of deep significance in this book. Like it shows that even if you’re passing through hell, there’s always light at the end of it. Keep your head up, cause sometimes the most awful times you go through might be building you up to the better strongest person you should be!!!
December 7, 2022
>A perfect book for parents who can't understand their children, your daughter/son may not be in such a bad stage in their life as Adam was, but you're gonna get an idea of what's going on in their mind and what's hurting them mentally.
🦋 🦋 🦋 🦋 🦋 🦋 🦋
>it's not only about parents and their children; we all go through tough times where we can't stop overthinking and panicking about simple stuff, your friend may need your help and this book will put you in a cage of emotions where you just want to make sure that none of your loved ones is suffering from mental breakdowns❤️
>>>BEING SPECIFIC: the book is a story about Adam and Yasmin (two uni students) whose friendship started at a coffee shop in Beirut while Adam was having a tough time expressing his feelings after the most important person in his life died...
🦋 🦋 🦋 🦋 🦋 🦋 🦋
>it's not only about parents and their children; we all go through tough times where we can't stop overthinking and panicking about simple stuff, your friend may need your help and this book will put you in a cage of emotions where you just want to make sure that none of your loved ones is suffering from mental breakdowns❤️
>>>BEING SPECIFIC: the book is a story about Adam and Yasmin (two uni students) whose friendship started at a coffee shop in Beirut while Adam was having a tough time expressing his feelings after the most important person in his life died...
May 7, 2020
This book is so inspiring and enlightening. I do not experience anxiety so I do not relate but I have a lot of friends and loved ones that do and this book helped me understand them better and have a glimpse at what goes on in their head and hellllll! Its tiring!
This book gave me so much insight into toxic relationships and mental illness.
Being a doctor myself this book made me re-evaluate the way I talk to patients and even tell my friends about my day at the hospital.
The book also shines a light on the misconceptions and myths the society has about mental health in Lebanon and it is heart breaking!
Thank you Nour for this beautiful book
My rating is not based on plot or action-packed pages, it's based on how beautiful and heart-warming this book is
This book gave me so much insight into toxic relationships and mental illness.
Being a doctor myself this book made me re-evaluate the way I talk to patients and even tell my friends about my day at the hospital.
The book also shines a light on the misconceptions and myths the society has about mental health in Lebanon and it is heart breaking!
Thank you Nour for this beautiful book
My rating is not based on plot or action-packed pages, it's based on how beautiful and heart-warming this book is
June 21, 2020
I enjoyed reading this book ... and I was quite thrilled in being able to relate to the different places and shops mentioned/described in Lebanon, as well as the mental health manifestations in both Adam and Yasmin, the stigma/discrimentation of mental health in Lebanon illustrated in Rami (which is a barrier to many people to seek help) and the rigid figure of Adam's dad (which is both a barrier and a trigger for mental health issues).
We have a long way to go in Lebanon to be able to openly and freely speak about mental health, but we will get there ...."There is not health without Mental Health"
We have a long way to go in Lebanon to be able to openly and freely speak about mental health, but we will get there ...."There is not health without Mental Health"
March 4, 2022
I don't know from where to start this review but surely I will start and say that: This is the most beautiful book I've ever read about mental illness, friendship and struggles.
The book was really well written from start till the end. The writing lets you fall in love with the characters: Yasmin and Adam. It lets you see, feel, and think how people with mental illness think. How they act, how it can have multiple facets and sides, how Yasmina is taking medicine to cope and heal, how Adam is refusing to acknowledge his illness in the first place. Aside from that, I really liked how Lebanese actual places were integrated to make this story more realistic and close to reality. They really help picturing everything and let you feel IN the story.
Nour, the writer, wrote the epilogue in a way that made me cry. I wasn't expecting this to an extent that I literally cried my eyes out.
The book is actually a rollercoaster of emotions. While reading various emotions kept invading me. You get involved in every situation that you extremely empathize with the characters.
Talking about emotions…
This book certainly lit a rage in me when it comes to Rami. I hate all the Ramis in the world. I just hate them!!! He really frustrated me through the story! I always felt the need to do either of these things: punch him in the face or throw the book!
But also, the book let me feel love and affection. I mean let’s not get started about the way Adam talks to Yasmin. It is just wow in the most beautiful way ever. It brings those butterflies in you and just makes you feel!
Here's an example of what he said:
"But you're the sun, in all its literal sense. [...] And I'm in your solar system now and you keep me in orbit, you give me order [...]"
Yet, the book brings a bit of sadness in you. One of the moments that really made me sob is the moment between Adam and his dad in the end. My heart was shattered into pieces after reading this part.
After reading this book I feel like I know how to deal with people dealing with mental illness. The book brings up details and much needed clarifications in a beautiful way!!
This is the kind of book that I would totally recommend for everyone!! You're missing a lot if you haven't read it yet.
The book was really well written from start till the end. The writing lets you fall in love with the characters: Yasmin and Adam. It lets you see, feel, and think how people with mental illness think. How they act, how it can have multiple facets and sides, how Yasmina is taking medicine to cope and heal, how Adam is refusing to acknowledge his illness in the first place. Aside from that, I really liked how Lebanese actual places were integrated to make this story more realistic and close to reality. They really help picturing everything and let you feel IN the story.
Nour, the writer, wrote the epilogue in a way that made me cry. I wasn't expecting this to an extent that I literally cried my eyes out.
The book is actually a rollercoaster of emotions. While reading various emotions kept invading me. You get involved in every situation that you extremely empathize with the characters.
Talking about emotions…
This book certainly lit a rage in me when it comes to Rami. I hate all the Ramis in the world. I just hate them!!! He really frustrated me through the story! I always felt the need to do either of these things: punch him in the face or throw the book!
But also, the book let me feel love and affection. I mean let’s not get started about the way Adam talks to Yasmin. It is just wow in the most beautiful way ever. It brings those butterflies in you and just makes you feel!
Here's an example of what he said:
"But you're the sun, in all its literal sense. [...] And I'm in your solar system now and you keep me in orbit, you give me order [...]"
Yet, the book brings a bit of sadness in you. One of the moments that really made me sob is the moment between Adam and his dad in the end. My heart was shattered into pieces after reading this part.
After reading this book I feel like I know how to deal with people dealing with mental illness. The book brings up details and much needed clarifications in a beautiful way!!
This is the kind of book that I would totally recommend for everyone!! You're missing a lot if you haven't read it yet.
April 8, 2020
A novel with a message. A very important one.
Not knowing much about mental health disorders myself, this book helped me understand what it's like to live with anxiety, how society can make it more challenging to openly and shamelessly seek help and how detrimental this can be on the overall health and well-being of someone suffering from it.
Addressing the taboo that is mental illness in Lebanon (and the Arab world in general) is important for our society at large. It is a discussion that should take place among people of all ages to further raise awareness about the topic and tackle the stigma surrounding it, in a bid to do away with labels and promote a healthy approach at all levels. "The Complete Opposite of Everything" is contributing to this discussion in a smooth writing style that everyone can understand and enjoy.
I would certainly recommend this book to students and parents alike - as well as everyone else who does not fall in either of these categories!
Not knowing much about mental health disorders myself, this book helped me understand what it's like to live with anxiety, how society can make it more challenging to openly and shamelessly seek help and how detrimental this can be on the overall health and well-being of someone suffering from it.
Addressing the taboo that is mental illness in Lebanon (and the Arab world in general) is important for our society at large. It is a discussion that should take place among people of all ages to further raise awareness about the topic and tackle the stigma surrounding it, in a bid to do away with labels and promote a healthy approach at all levels. "The Complete Opposite of Everything" is contributing to this discussion in a smooth writing style that everyone can understand and enjoy.
I would certainly recommend this book to students and parents alike - as well as everyone else who does not fall in either of these categories!
October 13, 2020
Honestly one of the most touching and wonderful books I’ve ever read. This book has changed my perspective on a lot of things and mainly mental health. Being born and raised in the Middle East didn’t make it easy for me to learn and educate myself on this really important topic because of the huge stigma around it, but after reading this book, it helped me understand and realize what mental health illnesses truly are and how they affect each and every one of us.
This is book is a 100% underrated. It literally changed me. So I encourage everyone to read it, it’s totally worth it!
This is book is a 100% underrated. It literally changed me. So I encourage everyone to read it, it’s totally worth it!
May 14, 2021
This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions
I couldn’t think in my entire life how these people feel and what symptoms do they encounter. I feel that nour made a great job by writing her experience as a novel. I felt a little bit bored a first but then when I reached page 70 I couldn’t put it down until I finished it
I highly recommend you to meet adam and yasmin
Can’t wait for your new book
4.2/5 stars
I couldn’t think in my entire life how these people feel and what symptoms do they encounter. I feel that nour made a great job by writing her experience as a novel. I felt a little bit bored a first but then when I reached page 70 I couldn’t put it down until I finished it
I highly recommend you to meet adam and yasmin
Can’t wait for your new book
4.2/5 stars
February 20, 2022
I highly recommend reading this book if you want to know more about mental health; it's a very accurate depiction and Nour did a great job at showing a realistic side of it.
I did like the book as whole, but I didn't really enjoy the story and that's okay! The book is more character driven than it is plot driven so it shouldn't really come as a surprise. I loved the writing style and I think Nour is a great writer!
I did like the book as whole, but I didn't really enjoy the story and that's okay! The book is more character driven than it is plot driven so it shouldn't really come as a surprise. I loved the writing style and I think Nour is a great writer!
April 7, 2020
This book starts out as a light Y/A book and then drives the reader into the intricate and very vulnerable mind of an anxious individual. The writer’s descriptions paint a mind image, and she draws witty, sometimes humorous, allusions to the contemporary world, making everything about the story relatable even if the reader has not experienced the specific narrated situations and events. The characters are thoroughly developed through a third person omniscient that enters the mind of both protagonists, and the story’s ending is a realistic unraveling of the events leading up to it. The story made me laugh and cry, and I am so lucky to have read such a beautiful book about the stigma surrounding such an important topic in the middle east nowadays: mental health.
February 17, 2021
I liked this novel , it shows that there is hope for people with mental illnesses
i like the style of writing and the way each character is in this novel reminds you of actual people in real life, like people you hear about.
I really liked the ending.
i like the style of writing and the way each character is in this novel reminds you of actual people in real life, like people you hear about.
I really liked the ending.
May 6, 2022
I think this is one of my favorite books now.
I absolutely loved it and i think it's very underrated. I loved the writing style and how mental illness was portrayed, it was very realistic and it trully showed how the Lebanese society sees it as.
I absolutely loved it and i think it's very underrated. I loved the writing style and how mental illness was portrayed, it was very realistic and it trully showed how the Lebanese society sees it as.
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