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A Revolution of the Mind
From the chilly gray of her hometown on Chicago’s North Shore to a palm-speckled, sun-drenched California campus, young Ellen "Boo" Harvey is caught in a spiral into mania and melancholy that no one around her has the language, energy, or courage to look squarely in the face. Unheard or dismissed by her family and friends, Boo is forced to grapple with the ferocity of her Madness and the intricacies of her mind alone -- careening from mental paralysis and near-invalidity to recovery and back again.
Despite every privilege afforded to her as the well-heeled daughter of a blue blood family, Boo’s trajectory seems terminally inescapable until she meets Jude, a suicidal advocate for the mentally ill in Chicago, who teaches her how to rail against the machines and structures that work around the clock to render an entire class of Americans politically invisible and permanently broken.
An assiduous and provocative debut, MV Perry’s A Revolution of the Mind is equal parts political manifesto, tortured self-portrait, and call to action that gazes unflinchingly at the causes and manifestations of contemporary American Madness.
Despite every privilege afforded to her as the well-heeled daughter of a blue blood family, Boo’s trajectory seems terminally inescapable until she meets Jude, a suicidal advocate for the mentally ill in Chicago, who teaches her how to rail against the machines and structures that work around the clock to render an entire class of Americans politically invisible and permanently broken.
An assiduous and provocative debut, MV Perry’s A Revolution of the Mind is equal parts political manifesto, tortured self-portrait, and call to action that gazes unflinchingly at the causes and manifestations of contemporary American Madness.
497 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2022
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8860 people want to read
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May 16, 2022A Revolution of the Mind is a beautifully written faux autobiography. It may even be an important work. I found it tremendously depressing, with a narrator who is self-involved to an extreme that is likely detrimental. The story is one of mental health, alcoholism and despair, which runs throughout, and made this book particularly challenging to read, despite the beautiful prose. If you’re looking for clouds on a sunny day, this will almost certainly dampen your spirits, as moving as it may be.
January 6, 2024
I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway. I read it, every word, while wondering why there had to be so many of them.
I'm glad this book is finding an audience that sees something, well, revolutionary in it. I found it tedious, repetitive, and too reminiscent of late-night rambling talks in the college dorm - impassioned and righteously indignant in the moment, but illogical, self-centered, and not really conveying much original thought once exposed to the light of day. This was a lot of monologue to get through, and I can't say I felt moved or enlightened by it.
I'm glad this book is finding an audience that sees something, well, revolutionary in it. I found it tedious, repetitive, and too reminiscent of late-night rambling talks in the college dorm - impassioned and righteously indignant in the moment, but illogical, self-centered, and not really conveying much original thought once exposed to the light of day. This was a lot of monologue to get through, and I can't say I felt moved or enlightened by it.
March 13, 2022
“Because perhaps nobody has ever told you that you can decide for yourself where to draw the line on what you do and do not look at, and you can look at the whole of a person, and not just the parts of her you are comfortable with. Not just what you see selectively, or how you want to see her, but for who she is in whole. And for how she understands herself.”
Growing up, Boo and I shared very few outward life experiences, our college years were spent in different orbits from one another, and yet her story resonates with me deeply. I was enthralled from page one.
“A Revolution of the Mind” is intelligently written and diligently researched. It is thought-provoking and inspiring. I highly recommend this novel to everyone who can accept the incommodious.
Growing up, Boo and I shared very few outward life experiences, our college years were spent in different orbits from one another, and yet her story resonates with me deeply. I was enthralled from page one.
“A Revolution of the Mind” is intelligently written and diligently researched. It is thought-provoking and inspiring. I highly recommend this novel to everyone who can accept the incommodious.
May 25, 2024
Reads line an autobiography of a young woman
I kept looking back to make sure this was actually a novel because I kept thinking it was an autobiography of an immature mental health advocate who thought her descriptions of drug use and alcohol abuse in college were interesting. Or the number of times she mentions her family’s wealth.
It is cringing to find the narrator becoming inspired by James Baldwin and folding his story into hers as if wealthy white woman with mental health issues being shunned by society parallels well with Black queer male experience. She does both communities a disservice.
The biggest flaw though is figuring out what it’s about because we flip flop from present day late 20s narrator to college-aged narrator and soon we are talking about the black community in Chicago and then the Palestinians in Gaza.
It was very difficult to feel anything for the narrator and hard to want to finish.
I kept looking back to make sure this was actually a novel because I kept thinking it was an autobiography of an immature mental health advocate who thought her descriptions of drug use and alcohol abuse in college were interesting. Or the number of times she mentions her family’s wealth.
It is cringing to find the narrator becoming inspired by James Baldwin and folding his story into hers as if wealthy white woman with mental health issues being shunned by society parallels well with Black queer male experience. She does both communities a disservice.
The biggest flaw though is figuring out what it’s about because we flip flop from present day late 20s narrator to college-aged narrator and soon we are talking about the black community in Chicago and then the Palestinians in Gaza.
It was very difficult to feel anything for the narrator and hard to want to finish.
May 21, 2022
First off I want to thank M.V. Perry for creating and writing A Revolution of the Mind as well as everyone involved in the making/publication.
I received A Revolution of the Mind via Goodreads giveaways. All opinions are my own.
AROTM is hard to describe in words for me. I too have battled with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other ailments. This book has hit home with me and I would highly recommend anyone, even if you haven't suffered from mental illness to read AROTM.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Elise-Capricorn Book Reviews 📚♑🐐
I received A Revolution of the Mind via Goodreads giveaways. All opinions are my own.
AROTM is hard to describe in words for me. I too have battled with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other ailments. This book has hit home with me and I would highly recommend anyone, even if you haven't suffered from mental illness to read AROTM.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Elise-Capricorn Book Reviews 📚♑🐐
April 22, 2024
Another book where the editor dropped the ball. This book should be cut in half, not 500 pages long.
This is just thoughts, repetitive thoughts and daily activities of a depressed individual over and over again.
If an author is going to write a fiction book, then some exciting action needs to take place in it.
It felt like the author took this opportunity to give their thoughts and vent over political and social issues.
If authors want to do this, then please don’t do it in a fiction book.
Just write a non fiction book and title it: “My Thoughts On…..” Otherwise I don’t care.
Thanks for the free copy anyway.
This is just thoughts, repetitive thoughts and daily activities of a depressed individual over and over again.
If an author is going to write a fiction book, then some exciting action needs to take place in it.
It felt like the author took this opportunity to give their thoughts and vent over political and social issues.
If authors want to do this, then please don’t do it in a fiction book.
Just write a non fiction book and title it: “My Thoughts On…..” Otherwise I don’t care.
Thanks for the free copy anyway.
May 12, 2022
It was a joy getting to know Boo as a person and go through the novel. It was really well written and I enjoyed the writing style.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 29, 2024
I entered to win this book from GoodReads and Net galley after reading and believing to be true all the marketing information presented.
I believe this book should have a warning label on it for those who have anxiety or depression or are prone to panic attacks.
No, I didn't read the entire book because I got bored.
I believe this book should have a warning label on it for those who have anxiety or depression or are prone to panic attacks.
No, I didn't read the entire book because I got bored.
June 8, 2022
*This was a GoodReads Firstreads Giveaway*
I was interested in the depiction of depression, and when I started the book I enjoyed the flowy writing about her state of mind and of Chicago. But despite all of that, the book was hard to make time for and to get through.
I was interested in the depiction of depression, and when I started the book I enjoyed the flowy writing about her state of mind and of Chicago. But despite all of that, the book was hard to make time for and to get through.
June 2, 2022
A provocative, emotional novel unafraid to bare its teeth
This unflinching literary novel explores views of mental illness that most would not think to entertain. Ellen “Boo” Harvey is an intelligent girl with her whole life ahead of her. Grappling with severe depression and anxiety, she navigates college and the turbulent political landscape of present-day America. Feeling overlooked and dismissed by those around her, she does her best to handle these issues on her own. Drowning in this lack of support, she meets Jude, an intense activist working toward the same social goals, and together, they advocate for the voiceless, beginning with actual representation of mental illness in political spaces.
The author does a wonderful job of describing how mental illness feels, not only to experience it in one’s mind, but in terms of physical illness as well, and how thoughts and actions affect those around them. The reader never has to wonder how the protagonist feels or what they’re thinking, and occasionally, the protagonist’s discomfort is palpable. The protagonist identifies many times the miserable feeling that comes from asking for help and being fundamentally misunderstood, shrugged off, and told to wait for something that won’t arrive.
The reader is afforded accuracy, honesty, and time to mull over concepts and the advocacy work Boo and Jude are conducting, lending the novel legitimacy and providing testimony to present-day advocates in this line of work. This book not only discusses the need for mental illness advocacy, but advocacy for all marginalized groups. Boo, acknowledging her position coming from a wealthy white
family on the north side of Chicago, articulates a number of times that she could not get to where she needs to be without the help of her parents’ money. She realizes that “class distinctions matter a great deal when the Titanic is sailing normally, but in the era of the iceberg, they means nothing at all.” The novel asserts that to even begin to see a change in how mental health is handled in political and social spaces, change needs to start at the ground level, with basic housing, healthcare, and income for all, basic kindness toward one another, and a departure from an individual-centric mindset to one focused on the greater good, even if it means a transfer of resources. It is a call for—not just a general revolution against the oppressive powers that be—but a total “revolution of the [collective] mind.”
This book provides vivid insight to a world that many cannot fathom, yet it is a reality
many Americans cope with daily; in this respect, one hesitates to call it fiction. The protagonist’s
incendiary remarks about the world she confronts leave the reader with a hunger for more. I would recommend this novel to a reader looking for something truthful, and at the same time harsh and unabashed in its depiction of society.
“The system is in the business of treating symptoms. What we need is a revolution.”
This unflinching literary novel explores views of mental illness that most would not think to entertain. Ellen “Boo” Harvey is an intelligent girl with her whole life ahead of her. Grappling with severe depression and anxiety, she navigates college and the turbulent political landscape of present-day America. Feeling overlooked and dismissed by those around her, she does her best to handle these issues on her own. Drowning in this lack of support, she meets Jude, an intense activist working toward the same social goals, and together, they advocate for the voiceless, beginning with actual representation of mental illness in political spaces.
The author does a wonderful job of describing how mental illness feels, not only to experience it in one’s mind, but in terms of physical illness as well, and how thoughts and actions affect those around them. The reader never has to wonder how the protagonist feels or what they’re thinking, and occasionally, the protagonist’s discomfort is palpable. The protagonist identifies many times the miserable feeling that comes from asking for help and being fundamentally misunderstood, shrugged off, and told to wait for something that won’t arrive.
The reader is afforded accuracy, honesty, and time to mull over concepts and the advocacy work Boo and Jude are conducting, lending the novel legitimacy and providing testimony to present-day advocates in this line of work. This book not only discusses the need for mental illness advocacy, but advocacy for all marginalized groups. Boo, acknowledging her position coming from a wealthy white
family on the north side of Chicago, articulates a number of times that she could not get to where she needs to be without the help of her parents’ money. She realizes that “class distinctions matter a great deal when the Titanic is sailing normally, but in the era of the iceberg, they means nothing at all.” The novel asserts that to even begin to see a change in how mental health is handled in political and social spaces, change needs to start at the ground level, with basic housing, healthcare, and income for all, basic kindness toward one another, and a departure from an individual-centric mindset to one focused on the greater good, even if it means a transfer of resources. It is a call for—not just a general revolution against the oppressive powers that be—but a total “revolution of the [collective] mind.”
This book provides vivid insight to a world that many cannot fathom, yet it is a reality
many Americans cope with daily; in this respect, one hesitates to call it fiction. The protagonist’s
incendiary remarks about the world she confronts leave the reader with a hunger for more. I would recommend this novel to a reader looking for something truthful, and at the same time harsh and unabashed in its depiction of society.
“The system is in the business of treating symptoms. What we need is a revolution.”
March 27, 2024
This is an emotionally challenging book to read. The chapters are long (a bit too long in my opinion) and I had to take many breaks to reign in my emotional reaction to the text. The book has two alternating stories lines, both of which are deeply personal to me. I found the portrayals of depression and the mental health system quite accurate, generally speaking. I have chronic depression that has been severe at times. I am also a retired psychologist and was active in mental health system advocacy for many years. There are ways to improve the system. I am an advocate of incremental change rather than revolution. There are low-cost programs that are quite effective in helping folks with severe mentally illnesses live independently in the community. We must give people who struggle with such problems as much independence as they can manage. Most community mental health services don't do this. No one wants to live in a group home or go to a day program. People want to live on their own and have meaningful activities.
At the same time, having worked in two different state psychiatric institutions for involuntarily committed patients, I know that there are a small number of folks who require supervised 24-hour care, either because they are unable to care for themselves or to manage their impulses (usually because of brain damage). We must protect those who cannot protect themselves, particularly from those who wish to save money by eliminating this level of care altogether.
At the same time, having worked in two different state psychiatric institutions for involuntarily committed patients, I know that there are a small number of folks who require supervised 24-hour care, either because they are unable to care for themselves or to manage their impulses (usually because of brain damage). We must protect those who cannot protect themselves, particularly from those who wish to save money by eliminating this level of care altogether.
November 26, 2024
I gave this 30 minutes of my time and 40 pages. All I can grasp is the main character is suicidal and that the thematic idea of madness should make some grand statement at some point. The delivery though, is driving me mad. I won this in a giveaway and I could not be happier to allow myself to dnf this one.
March 7, 2024
I had a difficult time reading this book. I found it frustrating, whereas I expected to learn something new. The characters who were depressed and mentally challenged seemed to arrive there of their own accord. On the other hand, none of them seemed able to take any positive steps to move forward in a positive way. I felt they wanted someone, something - like a government agency - to fix them at taxpayers expense. The author's attempt to compare the failures of the mental health system and to discrimination was very weak, in my opinion. Overall, I didn't like this book. I couldn't get thru it fast enough. I won a copy of this book through a giveaway I found on GoodReads.
April 1, 2024
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for choosing me.
It’s a bit manic and kind of all over the place (which I’m assuming is the point), however I found myself just wanting it to end. I wasn’t truly invested in the story, and I think part of the reason why had to do with the extremely long and rambling chapters. It felt like I was reading a very long run-on sentence the entire time.
I will say it was well written, I just don’t believe this book was meant for me. If you’re reading this book, prepare yourself, it’s sad. Maybe I’m not the right reader for this book, I hope it finds its way to its target audience.
It’s a bit manic and kind of all over the place (which I’m assuming is the point), however I found myself just wanting it to end. I wasn’t truly invested in the story, and I think part of the reason why had to do with the extremely long and rambling chapters. It felt like I was reading a very long run-on sentence the entire time.
I will say it was well written, I just don’t believe this book was meant for me. If you’re reading this book, prepare yourself, it’s sad. Maybe I’m not the right reader for this book, I hope it finds its way to its target audience.
June 8, 2022
Thanks to the author/publisher for the goodreads giveaway!
This was beautifully written but so very heavy. Addressing big issues of discrimination and a system that fails those with mental health issues this book made me stop and really analyze the world we live in and my place in it. Thank you to MV Perry for the extensive amount of research that I assume was done before writing this, and for being willing to be open and honest about where and how our society fails the mentally ill.
This was beautifully written but so very heavy. Addressing big issues of discrimination and a system that fails those with mental health issues this book made me stop and really analyze the world we live in and my place in it. Thank you to MV Perry for the extensive amount of research that I assume was done before writing this, and for being willing to be open and honest about where and how our society fails the mentally ill.
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April 23, 2024Mental health and politics; Reader gave it a glowing review as a great Chicago novel.
March 15, 2025
Oof. This book was beautifully written but difficult to read because at times it hit a little too close to home.
“The American Dream is my American Coma” really stuck with me. While a bit long, the prose was engaging and I enjoyed getting to know Boo throughout this book.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and would recommend to anyone looking for a thought-provoking read, but know that the content may contain triggers.
“The American Dream is my American Coma” really stuck with me. While a bit long, the prose was engaging and I enjoyed getting to know Boo throughout this book.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and would recommend to anyone looking for a thought-provoking read, but know that the content may contain triggers.
November 10, 2022
This is a book with a broad vision; it has a "largeness" in the range of ideas and the scope of discussion and characters. Yes, it’s a first-person narrative involving someone descending in and out of illness-deep depression but it’s way more than that. It’s about a bunch of characters who feel real because of the specificity of detail about them, what they do, where they go. The protagonist is an interesting person, someone who opens out ideas about music and literature and the politics of everyday life that make you want to know more – or that change your perspective. It’s a first novel, and could probably have been edited down a little. That’s the downside of “largeness”. But it’s a book that’s worth reading – that has something important to say about becoming an adult and about confronting an accepted view of reality that diminishes people. To compare it to something else, I’d say it makes Donna Tartt's writing look superficial and trivial.
April 6, 2025
Fantastic faux autobiography. However probably could have been edited down
November 14, 2022
Wonderful read
January 8, 2025
HORRIBLE.
This novel has absolutely no plot. You have a wealthy young woman named Boo. Boo is extremely gifted and gets into an outstanding college. She believes she has crippling depression. She chronicles her life at college and “dealing with her depression” which consists of lots of drinking and drug usage. Then she goes home on break. Then she works and goes out to fancy dinners with her parents. Then she goes back to school. Depression, drinking, drugs. Then she goes home on break. Repeat.
I knew this book was trouble when I first opened it to read on my kindle and it said I had 2 hours left in the chapter. WHAT!!???
HORRIBLE. There is no way this novel should have ever been published. At least, for me, it was won in a free giveaway. Because had I paid money for this, I would be really depressed.
This novel has absolutely no plot. You have a wealthy young woman named Boo. Boo is extremely gifted and gets into an outstanding college. She believes she has crippling depression. She chronicles her life at college and “dealing with her depression” which consists of lots of drinking and drug usage. Then she goes home on break. Then she works and goes out to fancy dinners with her parents. Then she goes back to school. Depression, drinking, drugs. Then she goes home on break. Repeat.
I knew this book was trouble when I first opened it to read on my kindle and it said I had 2 hours left in the chapter. WHAT!!???
HORRIBLE. There is no way this novel should have ever been published. At least, for me, it was won in a free giveaway. Because had I paid money for this, I would be really depressed.
October 13, 2023
Unfortunately, this is one of the very few books I couldn’t get through reading, no matter how hard I struggled. It was too depressing and was depressing me in my real life. It's about a girl, who despite having almost everything she could want materially because of rich parents, struggles with debilitating depression. The descriptions of what she goes through are incredible, bringing you into her depression. That feeling would stay with me after reading and I stopped reading it about half way through. Although a novel, and not a biography, I get the impression the author, or someone close to them, has struggled with debilitating depression themselves. No one could write something like this without that experience.
December 26, 2024
Pretentious Badly written overly wordy drivel just horrible why do i keep winning these awful books i cant even stomach to finish. Lets just hope this isnt what the best books with characters having mental issues has to offer. What people rated this high enough for it to have a average of 3.5
June 16, 2024
“The root of sanism comes from the idea that civilization requires the absence of mental disturbances. As “mental illness” is supposedly the embodiment of these disturbances, it has been amongst our most neglected, feared, and ostracized conditions.”
A Revolution of the Mind by M. V. Perry is a compelling exploration of personal despair and societal neglect, seen through the lens of its protagonist, Ellen Boo Harvey. Ellen, a young woman of aristocratic lineage, finds herself ensnared in the throes of pessimism and emotional desolation. Despite her noble heritage, Ellen's affluence fails to provide her with a meaningful support system, leaving her adrift and isolated.
I loved how the narrative captured Ellen's profound sense of alienation. Mental illness is like an open secret which is a taboo and most of time not taken as a serious affliction to be worked upon. Her aristocratic background, which should ideally be a source of comfort and support, instead highlights the hollowness of her relationships with friends and family. It rendered my heart how I found the people around her to be emotionally distant and indifferent to her plight, further exacerbating her sense of abandonment and reinforcing the notion that wealth cannot buy emotional stability or genuine connection.
Ellen's life takes a pivotal turn upon her encounter with Jude, a fervent champion for mental health awareness. I liked the way how the author developed Jude's character akin to a beacon of hope and strength, embodying the ideals of compassion and resilience. Through Jude, Ellen learns to navigate her inner turmoil and begins to challenge the societal structures that marginalize individuals struggling with mental illness. Jude's guidance is instrumental in Ellen's transformation, empowering her to assert her identity and fight for her place in a society that deems her and others like her politically irrelevant.
I commend the author for deftly and sensitively address the stigma surrounding mental illness and critiques the societal tendency to overlook the struggles of those who suffer from it. The author’s narrative sheds light on the importance of mental health advocacy in the political space and the need for societal change to accommodate and support individuals with mental health issues. The story is a poignant reminder of the power of human connection and the transformative impact of empathy and support.
This book is a thought-provoking read that made me contemplate on my perception of mental illness. I was enamoured by the author’s evocative storytelling which created a resonant and impactful narrative. Ellen Boo Harvey’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the revolutionary power of compassion and understanding. I recommend this book for anyone interested in the intersections of mental health, societal norms, and personal empowerment.
A Revolution of the Mind by M. V. Perry is a compelling exploration of personal despair and societal neglect, seen through the lens of its protagonist, Ellen Boo Harvey. Ellen, a young woman of aristocratic lineage, finds herself ensnared in the throes of pessimism and emotional desolation. Despite her noble heritage, Ellen's affluence fails to provide her with a meaningful support system, leaving her adrift and isolated.
I loved how the narrative captured Ellen's profound sense of alienation. Mental illness is like an open secret which is a taboo and most of time not taken as a serious affliction to be worked upon. Her aristocratic background, which should ideally be a source of comfort and support, instead highlights the hollowness of her relationships with friends and family. It rendered my heart how I found the people around her to be emotionally distant and indifferent to her plight, further exacerbating her sense of abandonment and reinforcing the notion that wealth cannot buy emotional stability or genuine connection.
Ellen's life takes a pivotal turn upon her encounter with Jude, a fervent champion for mental health awareness. I liked the way how the author developed Jude's character akin to a beacon of hope and strength, embodying the ideals of compassion and resilience. Through Jude, Ellen learns to navigate her inner turmoil and begins to challenge the societal structures that marginalize individuals struggling with mental illness. Jude's guidance is instrumental in Ellen's transformation, empowering her to assert her identity and fight for her place in a society that deems her and others like her politically irrelevant.
I commend the author for deftly and sensitively address the stigma surrounding mental illness and critiques the societal tendency to overlook the struggles of those who suffer from it. The author’s narrative sheds light on the importance of mental health advocacy in the political space and the need for societal change to accommodate and support individuals with mental health issues. The story is a poignant reminder of the power of human connection and the transformative impact of empathy and support.
This book is a thought-provoking read that made me contemplate on my perception of mental illness. I was enamoured by the author’s evocative storytelling which created a resonant and impactful narrative. Ellen Boo Harvey’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the revolutionary power of compassion and understanding. I recommend this book for anyone interested in the intersections of mental health, societal norms, and personal empowerment.
June 11, 2025
Book Review: A Revolution of the Mind by M.V. Perry
As an avid reader drawn to raw, psychologically intense narratives, A Revolution of the Mind left me emotionally winded yet galvanized. Perry’s debut is less a traditional novel than a literary grenade—one that detonates the complacency surrounding mental health discourse with terrifying precision.
Emotional Impact & Reading Experience
Boo’s descent into “Madness” gripped me with its visceral authenticity. The scenes depicting her manic episodes—particularly one where sunlight becomes “a thousand shards of glass”—induced near-physical vertigo. What unsettled me most wasn’t the darkness, but the moments of lucidity when Boo recognizes her unraveling while others dismiss it as privileged melodrama. Perry forces readers to sit in that dissonance, making us complicit in the societal gaslighting Boo endures.
Jude’s introduction was a narrative lightning strike. Their dialogues about mental health as political warfare (not just personal struggle) sparked my own reckoning with how I’ve internalized systemic biases. The novel’s unflinching gaze at institutional failure—from indifferent therapists to performative campus wellness programs—left me alternating between rage and heartbreak.
Constructive Criticism
-Structural Whiplash: The shifts between manifesto-like polemics and intimate character moments sometimes disrupted immersion. A tighter weave between Boo’s story and the broader critique might have amplified both.
-Privilege Paradox: While the book acknowledges Boo’s wealth, I craved deeper exploration of how race/class intersect with mental health care beyond Jude’s anecdotes.
-Jude’s Dimensionality: As the catalyst for Boo’s awakening, Jude occasionally felt more archetype than person—their suicidal ideation deserved the same nuanced treatment as Boo’s mania.
Why It Lingers
This isn’t a book you “enjoy”; it’s one that works on you. Days after finishing, I found myself analyzing casual conversations for the same dismissiveness Boo faced. Perry’s greatest achievement is making “Madness” feel simultaneously like a prison and a radical lens—one that exposes society’s fractures with brutal clarity.
Thank you to the publisher and Goodreads Giveaways for this incendiary gift. For readers who appreciated The Bell Jar’s psychological precision or Girl, Interrupted’s institutional critique, A Revolution of the Mind offers a fiercer, more politically charged successor.
Rating: 4.5/5 (A flawed but necessary sledgehammer to the mental health status quo.)
Note: The title’s promise of “revolution” isn’t metaphorical—by the end, you’ll either want to burn systems down or build better ones.
As an avid reader drawn to raw, psychologically intense narratives, A Revolution of the Mind left me emotionally winded yet galvanized. Perry’s debut is less a traditional novel than a literary grenade—one that detonates the complacency surrounding mental health discourse with terrifying precision.
Emotional Impact & Reading Experience
Boo’s descent into “Madness” gripped me with its visceral authenticity. The scenes depicting her manic episodes—particularly one where sunlight becomes “a thousand shards of glass”—induced near-physical vertigo. What unsettled me most wasn’t the darkness, but the moments of lucidity when Boo recognizes her unraveling while others dismiss it as privileged melodrama. Perry forces readers to sit in that dissonance, making us complicit in the societal gaslighting Boo endures.
Jude’s introduction was a narrative lightning strike. Their dialogues about mental health as political warfare (not just personal struggle) sparked my own reckoning with how I’ve internalized systemic biases. The novel’s unflinching gaze at institutional failure—from indifferent therapists to performative campus wellness programs—left me alternating between rage and heartbreak.
Constructive Criticism
-Structural Whiplash: The shifts between manifesto-like polemics and intimate character moments sometimes disrupted immersion. A tighter weave between Boo’s story and the broader critique might have amplified both.
-Privilege Paradox: While the book acknowledges Boo’s wealth, I craved deeper exploration of how race/class intersect with mental health care beyond Jude’s anecdotes.
-Jude’s Dimensionality: As the catalyst for Boo’s awakening, Jude occasionally felt more archetype than person—their suicidal ideation deserved the same nuanced treatment as Boo’s mania.
Why It Lingers
This isn’t a book you “enjoy”; it’s one that works on you. Days after finishing, I found myself analyzing casual conversations for the same dismissiveness Boo faced. Perry’s greatest achievement is making “Madness” feel simultaneously like a prison and a radical lens—one that exposes society’s fractures with brutal clarity.
Thank you to the publisher and Goodreads Giveaways for this incendiary gift. For readers who appreciated The Bell Jar’s psychological precision or Girl, Interrupted’s institutional critique, A Revolution of the Mind offers a fiercer, more politically charged successor.
Rating: 4.5/5 (A flawed but necessary sledgehammer to the mental health status quo.)
Note: The title’s promise of “revolution” isn’t metaphorical—by the end, you’ll either want to burn systems down or build better ones.
March 1, 2024
Book Review: "A Revolution of the Mind"
by MV Perry
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Dive into the captivating world of "A Revolution of the Mind" by MV Perry, where the chilling winds of Chicago's North Shore intertwine with the sun-drenched landscapes of California, serving as the backdrop for a deeply introspective journey through the complexities of mental health and societal norms.
👉As we follow the protagonist, Ellen "Boo" Harvey, on her tumultuous descent into the depths of depression and mania, Perry masterfully crafts a narrative that is both politically charged and emotionally resonant. Boo's struggle is not just a personal one; it is a poignant reflection of the systemic challenges faced by individuals with mental illness in today's society.
👉What sets "A Revolution of the Mind" apart is its fearless exploration of the intersection between personal experience and political activism. Through Boo's eyes, we are confronted with the harsh realities of sanism and the pervasive stigma surrounding mental illness, prompting us to question our own biases and assumptions.
👉The characters in Perry's debut are meticulously drawn, each adding depth and nuance to the narrative. From Boo's journey of self-discovery to the supporting cast grappling with their own demons, every character feels authentic and relatable, adding layers of complexity to the overarching themes of the novel.
👉While "A Revolution of the Mind" is undeniably a challenging read, with its dense prose and weighty subject matter, the rewards are plentiful for those willing to embark on this literary odyssey. Perry's writing is both lyrical and thought-provoking, urging readers to confront uncomfortable truths and advocate for change.
👉In a world where discussions surrounding mental health are often silenced or sidelined, "A Revolution of the Mind" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and collective action. This is not just a book; it is a call to arms, challenging us to dismantle the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help and receiving the support they deserve.
#ARevolutionOfTheMind #MVerry
by MV Perry
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Dive into the captivating world of "A Revolution of the Mind" by MV Perry, where the chilling winds of Chicago's North Shore intertwine with the sun-drenched landscapes of California, serving as the backdrop for a deeply introspective journey through the complexities of mental health and societal norms.
👉As we follow the protagonist, Ellen "Boo" Harvey, on her tumultuous descent into the depths of depression and mania, Perry masterfully crafts a narrative that is both politically charged and emotionally resonant. Boo's struggle is not just a personal one; it is a poignant reflection of the systemic challenges faced by individuals with mental illness in today's society.
👉What sets "A Revolution of the Mind" apart is its fearless exploration of the intersection between personal experience and political activism. Through Boo's eyes, we are confronted with the harsh realities of sanism and the pervasive stigma surrounding mental illness, prompting us to question our own biases and assumptions.
👉The characters in Perry's debut are meticulously drawn, each adding depth and nuance to the narrative. From Boo's journey of self-discovery to the supporting cast grappling with their own demons, every character feels authentic and relatable, adding layers of complexity to the overarching themes of the novel.
👉While "A Revolution of the Mind" is undeniably a challenging read, with its dense prose and weighty subject matter, the rewards are plentiful for those willing to embark on this literary odyssey. Perry's writing is both lyrical and thought-provoking, urging readers to confront uncomfortable truths and advocate for change.
👉In a world where discussions surrounding mental health are often silenced or sidelined, "A Revolution of the Mind" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and collective action. This is not just a book; it is a call to arms, challenging us to dismantle the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help and receiving the support they deserve.
#ARevolutionOfTheMind #MVerry
June 29, 2024
"A Revolution of the Mind" by M.V. Perry presents a thought-provoking exploration into the nature of consciousness, perception, and reality. Perry delves into philosophical concepts and scientific theories, aiming to challenge conventional thinking and expand the reader’s understanding of the mind’s capabilities.
The book is structured around Perry’s reflections and insights, blending elements of psychology, neuroscience, and philosophy to explore profound questions about human cognition and consciousness. Perry’s writing style is accessible, making complex ideas approachable for readers interested in delving deeper into the mysteries of the mind.
One of the strengths of "A Revolution of the Mind" lies in its ambitious scope and interdisciplinary approach. Perry draws from a wide range of sources and disciplines to support his arguments and observations, providing a comprehensive overview of current thinking on consciousness and perception.
However, while the book offers a broad exploration of its themes, some readers may find Perry’s arguments and conclusions overly speculative or lacking in empirical evidence. The philosophical nature of the discussions may appeal more to readers with a strong interest in theoretical concepts rather than those seeking practical applications or concrete answers.
Critically, the book may benefit from more structured organization and clarity in presenting its ideas. The flow of topics can sometimes feel disjointed, and certain chapters may delve into tangential discussions that detract from the central themes explored.
Overall, "A Revolution of the Mind" by M.V. Perry serves as a provocative introduction to the complexities of consciousness and perception. It provides readers with an opportunity to engage with profound philosophical questions and encourages critical thinking about the nature of reality and human experience.
[Rating: 3/5 stars]
This rating reflects the book’s ambition and intellectual curiosity, while acknowledging potential challenges related to clarity of argumentation and appeal to a broader audience.
The book is structured around Perry’s reflections and insights, blending elements of psychology, neuroscience, and philosophy to explore profound questions about human cognition and consciousness. Perry’s writing style is accessible, making complex ideas approachable for readers interested in delving deeper into the mysteries of the mind.
One of the strengths of "A Revolution of the Mind" lies in its ambitious scope and interdisciplinary approach. Perry draws from a wide range of sources and disciplines to support his arguments and observations, providing a comprehensive overview of current thinking on consciousness and perception.
However, while the book offers a broad exploration of its themes, some readers may find Perry’s arguments and conclusions overly speculative or lacking in empirical evidence. The philosophical nature of the discussions may appeal more to readers with a strong interest in theoretical concepts rather than those seeking practical applications or concrete answers.
Critically, the book may benefit from more structured organization and clarity in presenting its ideas. The flow of topics can sometimes feel disjointed, and certain chapters may delve into tangential discussions that detract from the central themes explored.
Overall, "A Revolution of the Mind" by M.V. Perry serves as a provocative introduction to the complexities of consciousness and perception. It provides readers with an opportunity to engage with profound philosophical questions and encourages critical thinking about the nature of reality and human experience.
[Rating: 3/5 stars]
This rating reflects the book’s ambition and intellectual curiosity, while acknowledging potential challenges related to clarity of argumentation and appeal to a broader audience.
September 1, 2024
this was….a brutal read. i consider myself pessimistic, but even i found revolution of the mind unprecedentedly negative. it is depression documented through an unfiltered, vulnerably cold lens. it reminds the reader that battling depression isn’t just a war of attrition, it’s an endless struggle, where victory is found in simply holding the line. i felt a great deal of empathy and relation to the main character, Boo, however her plight made me question my own limits of support and relationships. i was torn between what it means to be accountable, and what it means to be understood and heard.
there were some inconsistencies in the book, including the author describing their drink as a can, then describing it as a glass within the same paragraph (page 385). its also obvious the author has never smoked weed a day in their life, because they describe even taking a hit of a joint as causing violent blackouts and demonic hallucinations. i’m not trying to be that guy, but it was a bit ridiculous even for someone with low tolerance, or considering the characters underlying mental health variables. they also fantasize about cutting their wrist with the metal frame of their phone (??) at one point, which just left me with a confused, nonsensical visual.
overall this was indeed a good book, and i feel more educated, alert and perceptive towards the central themes and causes it works to raise awareness towards. there were a lot of moments where i thought “finally, someone said it.” i wasn’t expecting it to be half manifesto though, and some parts of that were considerably draining to read through, but i have to say, i agree with the points raised. i want to also note how political the book is. i use reading as an escape, so i grew tired of the long-winded political rants, even if i agreed with them. long story short: i recommend reading it, its witty and insightful, and gives a voice to an overlooked, underfunded crisis that needs attention. just be warned, it is indescribably dark, and reading to completion was a very emotionally draining experience. which i suppose is the point.
there were some inconsistencies in the book, including the author describing their drink as a can, then describing it as a glass within the same paragraph (page 385). its also obvious the author has never smoked weed a day in their life, because they describe even taking a hit of a joint as causing violent blackouts and demonic hallucinations. i’m not trying to be that guy, but it was a bit ridiculous even for someone with low tolerance, or considering the characters underlying mental health variables. they also fantasize about cutting their wrist with the metal frame of their phone (??) at one point, which just left me with a confused, nonsensical visual.
overall this was indeed a good book, and i feel more educated, alert and perceptive towards the central themes and causes it works to raise awareness towards. there were a lot of moments where i thought “finally, someone said it.” i wasn’t expecting it to be half manifesto though, and some parts of that were considerably draining to read through, but i have to say, i agree with the points raised. i want to also note how political the book is. i use reading as an escape, so i grew tired of the long-winded political rants, even if i agreed with them. long story short: i recommend reading it, its witty and insightful, and gives a voice to an overlooked, underfunded crisis that needs attention. just be warned, it is indescribably dark, and reading to completion was a very emotionally draining experience. which i suppose is the point.
March 23, 2025
I won this in a giveaway and tried to read as much as I could to give an honest review, but had to DNF at 50%. The prose is so purple it gives me a headache. The word ‘mawkish’ appears at least three times. I ended up skimming through the pages and pages of commentary about how alienating mental illness is, so much of this could be cut. It felt like this novel didn’t know if it wanted to be a narrative or an unpolished philosophy essay. Forgive me if I’m being a little mean, but I was super annoyed by our main character, Boo, who can be summed up pretty well by this (sarcastic) line, “My obsession with my suffering is proof of selfishness and immaturity, not a logical response to a raw deal.” No, Boo, having depression does not mean you can be a narcissist. By dwelling constantly in her own suffering and believing she is unique and special in her suffering, she Others herself and misses the opportunities for connection around her. If you believe nobody can understand you, you aren’t letting anybody try to. I feel bad because this entire novel felt like it was a self-insert and Boo was not a like-able character. She had very little personal agency and just seemed victimized by the world at every turn, which is just not super compelling for a narrative. It also bothered me that she ripped from critical race theory and queer theory without ever acknowledging that the oppressions she faces are compounded for those who also face other systemic oppressions. Instead she goes on a tirade defending the validity of her suffering in spite of her privilege. Also, as a person living with severe mental illness, I have no idea what I’m supposed to take away from this. Society hates us but let’s have Solidarity™️?
The only thing revolutionary about this book is using it to break the windows in a building.
The only thing revolutionary about this book is using it to break the windows in a building.
March 9, 2024
A Revolution of the Mind is a profound exploration of mental health, tracing Ellen Boo Harvey's turbulent journey from Chicago's North Shore to a sun-drenched California campus. Perry eloquently captures Boo's descent into mania and melancholy, revealing the isolating struggle when no one has the courage to confront the complexities of her mind. The narrative courageously navigates Boo's rollercoaster from mental paralysis to recovery, shedding light on the often overlooked facets of mental health.
Boo, despite her privileged background, finds hope in the form of Jude, a suicidal advocate in Chicago. Jude becomes Boo's guide, teaching her to resist the machinery that perpetuates the invisibility and brokenness of a whole class of Americans. Perry's debut is an assiduous blend of political manifesto, tortured self-portrait, and a call to action. The book fearlessly scrutinizes the roots and expressions of contemporary American Madness.
MV Perry crafts an engrossing narrative, skillfully balancing the personal and political in this debut work. The author's ability to delve into the intricacies of mental health while intertwining societal critique is commendable. Perry's unique voice adds a compelling layer to the storytelling, making A Revolution of the Mind a standout exploration of the human psyche and societal dynamics.
Overall A Revolution of the Mind is a must-read for those seeking a thought-provoking journey through mental health, privilege, and societal structures. Perry's narrative mastery shines, leaving readers with a poignant reflection on the invisible battles many face. This book is an urgent call to action, challenging us to confront and dismantle the mechanisms perpetuating American Madness.
Boo, despite her privileged background, finds hope in the form of Jude, a suicidal advocate in Chicago. Jude becomes Boo's guide, teaching her to resist the machinery that perpetuates the invisibility and brokenness of a whole class of Americans. Perry's debut is an assiduous blend of political manifesto, tortured self-portrait, and a call to action. The book fearlessly scrutinizes the roots and expressions of contemporary American Madness.
MV Perry crafts an engrossing narrative, skillfully balancing the personal and political in this debut work. The author's ability to delve into the intricacies of mental health while intertwining societal critique is commendable. Perry's unique voice adds a compelling layer to the storytelling, making A Revolution of the Mind a standout exploration of the human psyche and societal dynamics.
Overall A Revolution of the Mind is a must-read for those seeking a thought-provoking journey through mental health, privilege, and societal structures. Perry's narrative mastery shines, leaving readers with a poignant reflection on the invisible battles many face. This book is an urgent call to action, challenging us to confront and dismantle the mechanisms perpetuating American Madness.
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