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Side Effects
It’s Hannah’s first year away at college – the first time she’s been away from home, without a support network. Within the first month, the combination of classes and socializing and adjusting to college life sends her into a full-on breakdown. Fortunately, her roommate finds her, Hannah goes to campus mental health, and they prescribe her therapy and meds ― though with every new medication, you’ve got to watch out for unexpected side effects.
Every new medication Hannah tries comes with a new power and side effect. One makes her super-tough, and also makes her gain thirty pounds. Another gives her telepathy, while also completely screwing up her sleep schedule. Yet another gives her super-strength, as well as terrible constipation.
Nothing balances, but the powers are handy; Hannah even manages to save a few of her friends from mortal peril, or at least minor annoyances. And with the growing confidence from her powers and her therapy, Hannah even manages to ask out the cute girl she’s been eyeing!
Hannah doesn’t want to be a hero – she just wants to be well. But what does “well” even look like? What does it mean to be “healthy,” mentally speaking? How do you fix your brain when you’re living inside it? And can you really help other people if you can’t even help yourself?
Every new medication Hannah tries comes with a new power and side effect. One makes her super-tough, and also makes her gain thirty pounds. Another gives her telepathy, while also completely screwing up her sleep schedule. Yet another gives her super-strength, as well as terrible constipation.
Nothing balances, but the powers are handy; Hannah even manages to save a few of her friends from mortal peril, or at least minor annoyances. And with the growing confidence from her powers and her therapy, Hannah even manages to ask out the cute girl she’s been eyeing!
Hannah doesn’t want to be a hero – she just wants to be well. But what does “well” even look like? What does it mean to be “healthy,” mentally speaking? How do you fix your brain when you’re living inside it? And can you really help other people if you can’t even help yourself?
112 pages, Paperback
First published October 18, 2022
1 person is currently reading
512 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
September 18, 2022
I was so curious about this one when I saw it on Netgalley so I was very excited to pick it up!
Superpowers aside for a moment, this graphic novel explored seeking mental health support in an accurate and ultimately hopeful way. Hannah begins therapy and - supervised - tries courses of different medications throughout to find the right fit, with the acknowledgement that this a process and with neither avenue being portrayed as a quick fix. I saw some people say they didn’t like the switching between medications aspect, but I personally found this period of trial and error true to my own experience. Besides, I know I would much rather change meds under caring observation than stay on something with bad effects that outweighed the good and I’m glad she was in a position to do that.
I enjoyed the taking of these common symptoms (headaches, fatigue, weight gain) and adding this supernatural twist. I also liked that the sapphic romance occurred between two people both on their own journeys with their mental health who could be a support to each other while also having outside help. I agree that some elements felt a little underbaked and there were some issues with not being clear about when there had been time jumps, but ultimately this was a quick and insightful read. I would also like to emphasise though that you should check the CWs before going into this. There’s a sexual harassment side storyline I wasn’t aware of as well as the central handling of mental health struggles.
Take care of yourself while reading ❤️
Superpowers aside for a moment, this graphic novel explored seeking mental health support in an accurate and ultimately hopeful way. Hannah begins therapy and - supervised - tries courses of different medications throughout to find the right fit, with the acknowledgement that this a process and with neither avenue being portrayed as a quick fix. I saw some people say they didn’t like the switching between medications aspect, but I personally found this period of trial and error true to my own experience. Besides, I know I would much rather change meds under caring observation than stay on something with bad effects that outweighed the good and I’m glad she was in a position to do that.
I enjoyed the taking of these common symptoms (headaches, fatigue, weight gain) and adding this supernatural twist. I also liked that the sapphic romance occurred between two people both on their own journeys with their mental health who could be a support to each other while also having outside help. I agree that some elements felt a little underbaked and there were some issues with not being clear about when there had been time jumps, but ultimately this was a quick and insightful read. I would also like to emphasise though that you should check the CWs before going into this. There’s a sexual harassment side storyline I wasn’t aware of as well as the central handling of mental health struggles.
Take care of yourself while reading ❤️
June 9, 2023
I received this as an ARC from Aftershock Comics. Thank you.
This story is a mixed bag of many genres that work together. I don’t want to spoil it for anyone, I will leave it at that.
But I will say that it deals with a same gender relationship. So if that is something that doesn’t interest you, please be aware before starting this story.
This story is a mixed bag of many genres that work together. I don’t want to spoil it for anyone, I will leave it at that.
But I will say that it deals with a same gender relationship. So if that is something that doesn’t interest you, please be aware before starting this story.
December 20, 2022
This was cute! A quick, easy read. I don’t usually read graphic novels but for this as an ARC and enjoyed it more than I expected to. I was a bit thrown off by the timeline; I think there was a lot more time that passed than I initially thought, but there weren’t ANY time markers at all except for when Hannah couldn’t contact Iz and a week passed. Was this over the course of an entire semester? Just a month? I have no clue. Other than that though, I enjoyed the characters and the different “side effects” happening to Hannah.
April 18, 2023
Thank you net galley for providing me with a free arc of Side effects in exchange for a honest review.
Although I appreciate certain messages the book portrays such as normalizing therapy and reminders that medication is nothing to be ashamed of, nor something that defines you, the lack of time stamps and character exploration really made me unable to connect to the characters. Several plot lines, such as girls getting harassed by a professor also felt randomly thrown in, lacking of the depth that should be given to them. Overall a cute short read but nothing I'd necessarily recommend.
Although I appreciate certain messages the book portrays such as normalizing therapy and reminders that medication is nothing to be ashamed of, nor something that defines you, the lack of time stamps and character exploration really made me unable to connect to the characters. Several plot lines, such as girls getting harassed by a professor also felt randomly thrown in, lacking of the depth that should be given to them. Overall a cute short read but nothing I'd necessarily recommend.
October 19, 2022
Insightful read that takes a comprehensive look at mental health. I love how this graphic novel not only tackles the stigma surrouding mental illness, but also dispels misconceptions about medication and seeking professional help. I wasn't sure how I would feel about the magical realism at first, but later found it to be a creative way of portraying conditions such as dissociation and bipolar disorder. There's also a subplot involving sexual harassment.
The artwork in my ARC copy is black and white instead of full colour, which greatly disappointed me. I mean, look at the gorgeous cover and its purple tones! It seems like the actual book is in full colour though, so I look forward to checking it out.
Overall, the premise and themes of this book are great but I didn't connect with it as much as I'd hoped. The execution felt as lacking as my enjoyment level. I feel like a full-colour copy would have allowed me to follow the story better and enriched my reading experience.
Thank you Diamond Book Distributors, Aftershock Comics and Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
The artwork in my ARC copy is black and white instead of full colour, which greatly disappointed me. I mean, look at the gorgeous cover and its purple tones! It seems like the actual book is in full colour though, so I look forward to checking it out.
Overall, the premise and themes of this book are great but I didn't connect with it as much as I'd hoped. The execution felt as lacking as my enjoyment level. I feel like a full-colour copy would have allowed me to follow the story better and enriched my reading experience.
Thank you Diamond Book Distributors, Aftershock Comics and Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
September 11, 2022
tw: sexual harassment, dealing with mental health issues, medication
3.5
Side Effects follows Hannah, who is struggling during her first year at university. The stress is causing her to not leave her bed, and at her roommate's advice, she starts going to therapy. Therapy is helping Hannah, but the meds have some pretty strange side effects. Weird as in she gets one superpower, and one negative side effect for every type of medication she tries. She becomes super strong, or gets telepathy but also has messed up sleep schedule, or gets constipated. It seems weird to her, but the powers seem to be very useful, she manages to help some people and to ask out the girl she likes. Therapy helps, and she is feeling better, but the question of what it really means to be 'well' and 'healthy' are something that Hannah is still figuring out.
This was certainly a very interesting graphic novel. I liked the premise of it a lot, but truthfully I didn't really know what to expect of it. I love all things that bring attention to mental health and how important taking care of yourself is, so I definitely liked that aspect of the story. What I also enjoyed is that it normalizes going to therapy and taking meds when you need them, I think that's really important as well.
I understand that the idea of side effects as shown here is probably to show how imbalanced life may feel for a moment - you gain the ability to do something (that maybe your mental health stopped you from doing) but there also may be some negative side effects. I thought it was a creative way to show that. However, I will say that as the story progressed and more things happened quite quickly I kind of lost track of that message, and it made me wonder if there was something that went over my head here. I did like how it portrayed the isolation and loneliness that come with depression but also how you can improve and it does get better.
I really liked the art style, I thought the black and white color palette fit the story and the characters very well. I liked how the characters were drawn, and I thought their faces were very expressive, which is really fitting for the story. I enjoyed the characters, but I fish the novel was longer because I think the characters and some of the storyline could've been developed more. I really liked that it emphasized how nice and significant is to have supportive people around you - it won't cure you of your issues, but it's good to know people care about you and accept you as you are.
All in all, this was an enjoyable story, with some really important messages. I thought said messages were slightly lost in the plot, but nonetheless, I liked how it went about certain topics. I would recommend it if the topics of mental health interest you, but these are quite heavy at times so keep that in mind!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review!
3.5
Side Effects follows Hannah, who is struggling during her first year at university. The stress is causing her to not leave her bed, and at her roommate's advice, she starts going to therapy. Therapy is helping Hannah, but the meds have some pretty strange side effects. Weird as in she gets one superpower, and one negative side effect for every type of medication she tries. She becomes super strong, or gets telepathy but also has messed up sleep schedule, or gets constipated. It seems weird to her, but the powers seem to be very useful, she manages to help some people and to ask out the girl she likes. Therapy helps, and she is feeling better, but the question of what it really means to be 'well' and 'healthy' are something that Hannah is still figuring out.
This was certainly a very interesting graphic novel. I liked the premise of it a lot, but truthfully I didn't really know what to expect of it. I love all things that bring attention to mental health and how important taking care of yourself is, so I definitely liked that aspect of the story. What I also enjoyed is that it normalizes going to therapy and taking meds when you need them, I think that's really important as well.
I understand that the idea of side effects as shown here is probably to show how imbalanced life may feel for a moment - you gain the ability to do something (that maybe your mental health stopped you from doing) but there also may be some negative side effects. I thought it was a creative way to show that. However, I will say that as the story progressed and more things happened quite quickly I kind of lost track of that message, and it made me wonder if there was something that went over my head here. I did like how it portrayed the isolation and loneliness that come with depression but also how you can improve and it does get better.
I really liked the art style, I thought the black and white color palette fit the story and the characters very well. I liked how the characters were drawn, and I thought their faces were very expressive, which is really fitting for the story. I enjoyed the characters, but I fish the novel was longer because I think the characters and some of the storyline could've been developed more. I really liked that it emphasized how nice and significant is to have supportive people around you - it won't cure you of your issues, but it's good to know people care about you and accept you as you are.
All in all, this was an enjoyable story, with some really important messages. I thought said messages were slightly lost in the plot, but nonetheless, I liked how it went about certain topics. I would recommend it if the topics of mental health interest you, but these are quite heavy at times so keep that in mind!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review!
October 26, 2022
This was so good!! We follow Hannah who is just starting her first year of college. The first month is very overwhelming and after a breakdown, she seeks help in the form of therapy and medication. But then she starts to have weird side effects. So after talking with her therapist, they decide to switch her meds. But then she has another weird side effect - she starts gaining powers such as floating through walls, hearing thoughts, and super strength. Using her powers she's able to help a few people along the way and even saves someone from a predatory teacher. All Hannah wants is to be better but what does that even mean? Through medication and therapy she hopes to find out.
May 17, 2023
I wish I got superpowers from my medications :(
August 19, 2022
1 Sentence Summary: The beginning of Hannah’s first year of college goes terribly; she’s so overwhelmed that she can’t get out of bed, but when she starts going to therapy things begin improving, except the medication she’s prescribed has some unusually supernatural side effects.
My Thoughts: This was a really great quick and heartwarming read. I loved Hannah’s journey and the focus on mental health.
My biggest complaints were that it could’ve been fleshed out/developed more, and there were some weird time skips that made me really confused.
Overall, it was an interesting idea that could’ve been executed better, but I’d still recommend it!
Recommend to: People interested in graphic novels exploring themes of mental health.
***
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me an eARC in exchange for an honest review
My Thoughts: This was a really great quick and heartwarming read. I loved Hannah’s journey and the focus on mental health.
My biggest complaints were that it could’ve been fleshed out/developed more, and there were some weird time skips that made me really confused.
Overall, it was an interesting idea that could’ve been executed better, but I’d still recommend it!
Recommend to: People interested in graphic novels exploring themes of mental health.
***
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me an eARC in exchange for an honest review
August 29, 2022
This beautifully illustrated graphic novel is a good introduction to the topic of mental health. It deals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and more. It also tackles different social issues such as sexual abuse and abuse of power. Albeit valuable, it sort of missed the mark for me. I am not sure about the switching meds plot and the therapy scenes. They seemed a bit too surface-level for me. Overall, a good story, but not a must read in my book.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing early access.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing early access.
February 20, 2023
This is a neat graphic novel about a first-year college student with anxiety and deression. After a depressive episode, her roomate encorages her to see the campus psychiatrist, who prescribes medication. The medication causes bizarre paranormal side effects. This is an excellent portrayal of mental health and taking medication, and I was unsurprised to read in the backmatter that the mental health portion is based on the author;s experiences. I also loved the f/f romance that blooms between the main character and another student. It's a slim and very satisfying read.
August 31, 2022
I received an arc via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly... I only finished this in order to leave the appropriate feedback. I knew almost instantly that this was going to be bothersome for me, but I wanted to give it my due diligence, especially since there's always the chance that a story will turn around.
What really struck me immediately was that the tone of the book felt extremely dated. It's possible that this was a project that had been in the works for many years and was only picked up recently, maybe because author didn't feel like it was ready or because publishers weren't willing to pick it up due to its content. I really hope that was the case, because the approach to therapy, medication, and mental illness felt lightyears behind the times.
Even though there is a clear attempt to add humor and a wry approach to things that are upsetting, I still found the tone to be too glib. Who exactly is this book supposed to be for? If you're someone struggling with these issues, this book seems to make all of the potential nightmares real, and if you're someone who's been working on treating these things then it almost mocks the process. Everything felt exaggerated to the point of bad satire, and it made the experience a miserable slog as well as filled with troubling archetypes. The all-knowing fat friend, the doe eyed hippie therapist, the black character who's the answer to all problems... hard pass.
There are better stories out there about struggling with mental health, adjusting to medical treatments, and ... it's possible that I took huge offense to everything because they are things I identify with, but hey. I have a great therapist I believe in and know people like me deserve better books than this. I will not be recommending this to anyone.
Honestly... I only finished this in order to leave the appropriate feedback. I knew almost instantly that this was going to be bothersome for me, but I wanted to give it my due diligence, especially since there's always the chance that a story will turn around.
What really struck me immediately was that the tone of the book felt extremely dated. It's possible that this was a project that had been in the works for many years and was only picked up recently, maybe because author didn't feel like it was ready or because publishers weren't willing to pick it up due to its content. I really hope that was the case, because the approach to therapy, medication, and mental illness felt lightyears behind the times.
Even though there is a clear attempt to add humor and a wry approach to things that are upsetting, I still found the tone to be too glib. Who exactly is this book supposed to be for? If you're someone struggling with these issues, this book seems to make all of the potential nightmares real, and if you're someone who's been working on treating these things then it almost mocks the process. Everything felt exaggerated to the point of bad satire, and it made the experience a miserable slog as well as filled with troubling archetypes. The all-knowing fat friend, the doe eyed hippie therapist, the black character who's the answer to all problems... hard pass.
There are better stories out there about struggling with mental health, adjusting to medical treatments, and ... it's possible that I took huge offense to everything because they are things I identify with, but hey. I have a great therapist I believe in and know people like me deserve better books than this. I will not be recommending this to anyone.
May 4, 2023
I’m sorry, I really just couldn’t get into this book. I tried…
August 30, 2022
Trigger Warnings: Alcohol, underage drinking, cursing, medication, mental health, sexual harassment, car accident
Representation: Sapphic, Black, Bipolar Disorder
Side Effects is a graphic novel about mental health. During her first year at college, Hannah has a mental breakdown from the overwhelming feelings of being a new college student. With the help of her roommate, Hannah begins therapy and medication to help with her mental health. The only problem is each new medicine gives her very strange side effects. Hannah learns a lot about herself and helping others through this process, and even meets a cute girl along the way!
This eARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Wow I really loved this graphic novel! I wish this had existed when I was in college! It would’ve been nice to know that my feelings were not just me and that finding the right pack can really help you through anything. I loved the illustrations in this piece and the moral of the story. I also really enjoyed the therapist and Iz. They were two great characters!
I love the brevity of graphic novels because despite there being so many less pages, there’s still and entire story and typically a very important message. I think the author did that very well here. I loved how he tackled the topic of mental health and medications. This story is so real and relatable. A very important book for anyone in college or dealing with their own mental health!
Representation: Sapphic, Black, Bipolar Disorder
Side Effects is a graphic novel about mental health. During her first year at college, Hannah has a mental breakdown from the overwhelming feelings of being a new college student. With the help of her roommate, Hannah begins therapy and medication to help with her mental health. The only problem is each new medicine gives her very strange side effects. Hannah learns a lot about herself and helping others through this process, and even meets a cute girl along the way!
This eARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Wow I really loved this graphic novel! I wish this had existed when I was in college! It would’ve been nice to know that my feelings were not just me and that finding the right pack can really help you through anything. I loved the illustrations in this piece and the moral of the story. I also really enjoyed the therapist and Iz. They were two great characters!
I love the brevity of graphic novels because despite there being so many less pages, there’s still and entire story and typically a very important message. I think the author did that very well here. I loved how he tackled the topic of mental health and medications. This story is so real and relatable. A very important book for anyone in college or dealing with their own mental health!
August 28, 2022
I received an arc via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
"Side Effects" by Ted Anderson and Tara O'Connor reflects on the stigma against mental health and focuses on the effects of mental illness and its treatments. Hannah, entering a new college, a new state, and a whole new journey of life, finds that she needs outside help to deal with her worries and sadness. Trying out different medications leads Hannah into feeling various side effects throughout, but not just the usual side effects like headaches and fatigue. Hannah finds herself gaining a new 'superpower' side effect when she is testing out each medication; telepathy and electricity manipulation being two of them.
This novel represents the feelings of isolation that comes with depression and anxiety. In 120 pages, the reader is fully rooting for Hannah and her situation. This graphic novel was something I needed growing up, and I'm glad that teenagers will have this in the future. The representation of therapy and treatments for mental illness is really positive in this story, which is very refreshing to see. Overall, I really think this book could be a very important book for young adults. Even without that though, the book is just really well done and though the topics are heavy, "Side Effects" enjoyable and doesn't feel bogged down or a struggle to read.
"Side Effects" by Ted Anderson and Tara O'Connor reflects on the stigma against mental health and focuses on the effects of mental illness and its treatments. Hannah, entering a new college, a new state, and a whole new journey of life, finds that she needs outside help to deal with her worries and sadness. Trying out different medications leads Hannah into feeling various side effects throughout, but not just the usual side effects like headaches and fatigue. Hannah finds herself gaining a new 'superpower' side effect when she is testing out each medication; telepathy and electricity manipulation being two of them.
This novel represents the feelings of isolation that comes with depression and anxiety. In 120 pages, the reader is fully rooting for Hannah and her situation. This graphic novel was something I needed growing up, and I'm glad that teenagers will have this in the future. The representation of therapy and treatments for mental illness is really positive in this story, which is very refreshing to see. Overall, I really think this book could be a very important book for young adults. Even without that though, the book is just really well done and though the topics are heavy, "Side Effects" enjoyable and doesn't feel bogged down or a struggle to read.
December 12, 2022
I received a free digital ARC from PW's Grab A Galley through Seismic Press. Hannah’s first year of college isn’t going as expected. She starts going to therapy and gets a prescription for depression and anxiety. Different prescriptions give her different super powers. We travel with her as she finds the right medication and starts finding herself.
I liked how the author sees this as autobiographical, but uses super powers to offset negative stereotypes of prescription side effects. I wish the super powers were more correlated with the story, but overall an easy read, that is well drawn and can be a starting point for thinking about mental health. A nice cast of characters as well.
I liked how the author sees this as autobiographical, but uses super powers to offset negative stereotypes of prescription side effects. I wish the super powers were more correlated with the story, but overall an easy read, that is well drawn and can be a starting point for thinking about mental health. A nice cast of characters as well.
November 26, 2022
I loved the representation in this book. But from a story standpoint it fell a little flat. It moved fast in a way that was weird for the story itself. I also am confused about the powers. It feels like they stopped showing up, we didn’t see her tell Iz, and it just overall made me a little confused. I do think it portrayed anxiety really well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2022
Thanks NetGalley!
I really liked this graphic novel. It deals with mental health, therapy, meds, changing your meds, superpowers and of course LOVE!! Taking care of yourself so you can help take care of those you love who might also be struggling with mental health. 4.5 stars rounded up!
I really liked this graphic novel. It deals with mental health, therapy, meds, changing your meds, superpowers and of course LOVE!! Taking care of yourself so you can help take care of those you love who might also be struggling with mental health. 4.5 stars rounded up!
September 7, 2022
I was so excited to come across Side Effects because I adore any and all the books we can get that shine a positive light on mental health. Especially graphic novels. Unfortunately, the art and the story felt too much like caricature. Thanks, but no thanks.
January 3, 2023
This was a quick read. I was surprised by some of the events that happened but over all it was pretty good. I liked the concept of having powers as “side effects”.
The illustration was really pretty and vibrant too!
The illustration was really pretty and vibrant too!
Read
April 7, 2023Diamond BookShelf review pending
September 12, 2023
I saw myself so much in this, there was a lot of crying involved.
September 15, 2022
This is a new adult comic about mental health, medicine and the author having fun pushing the idea of side effects to its maximum. The author embodies those negative feelings that almost everyone has had at some stage (statistics show most people will have a period of depression in their lives). The university context and the reality that is faced there (positive and negative) will speak to people just starting college.
All in all a positive work that will very much talk to its new adult audience. Some of it came off as preachy to me and surface level, but I'm older than the target audience so I guess I don't need things to be so telegraphed. This feels like a comic that's needed for its age group.
All in all a positive work that will very much talk to its new adult audience. Some of it came off as preachy to me and surface level, but I'm older than the target audience so I guess I don't need things to be so telegraphed. This feels like a comic that's needed for its age group.
February 13, 2024
Great for young people who have anxiety about starting college, and younger people who could be anxious about applying or going at all. The aim is to kindly and empathetically portray experiences that students who have emotions that feel too huge and unmanageable, or possibly suspect they may have some form of mental illness, may encounter away at school. Particularly great for those anticipating a new, overwhelming place and are questioning whether they can handle leaving home, the familiar, and their daily support system. Also great for young people with friends, roommates, or other peers who might be struggling, showing them that being a good friend doesn't have to be a hard, intimidating, draining, or negative experience.
A few specific ways it can help young people through what can be a very intimidating stage:
--introducing the cast helps the reader test out whether they can identify with what individual characters are feeling and experiencing
--gives them a variety of real world examples of how emotional hurdles can feel for others
--helps them to judge whether those feelings might be showing up in their own lives
--gives them some vocabulary to describe how they are feeling, if they've never tried to put it into words before
--gently shows the MC talking to a doctor/therapist for the very first time
--helps to remove anxiety about how safe they'll feel talking to a doctor, providing hope
--shows what that can be like over time and how doctor's visits are a safe space where relief can be found, rather than a source of terror or evidence of weakness
--shows a character being introduced to the concept of meds, and deciding whether it's for them
--shows that they have agency and are 100% part of the decision making process, no one is making decisions without them -- feeling agency may be a revelation to them
--sets expectations showing them that there are different options, with different benefits and side effects
--sets expectations that finding the right med for them is a process and that side effects are real
--shows that getting a diagnosis can be a relief, rather than being the end of the world
--they are not alone or abnormal -- there are other people out there experiencing the exact same things
--they are not alone or broken -- there are other people out there with struggles of their own that the MC relates to with empathy and sympathy
--shows how relationships can be built and a broader social life can thrive despite struggles
--gives examples of characters making real progress, and what positive strides can look like
Readers will find the following diagnoses represented among the students: depression, anxiety, dissociation, bipolar (2), trauma.
It manages to do all of this in the graphic novel format and reduces big, scary, abstract issues down to a simple, relatable, engaging story that moves along swiftly. An easy read in one sitting; literally zero spots that drag. I never once had the urge to put it down and come back to it.
If it sounds super heavy, that's the fault of my review -- not a fault of the book. It does not read heavy at all. The tone is one of encouragement and reassurance resulting in a hopeful outlook. And for those struggling, feeling hope can be half the battle itself.
A few specific ways it can help young people through what can be a very intimidating stage:
--introducing the cast helps the reader test out whether they can identify with what individual characters are feeling and experiencing
--gives them a variety of real world examples of how emotional hurdles can feel for others
--helps them to judge whether those feelings might be showing up in their own lives
--gives them some vocabulary to describe how they are feeling, if they've never tried to put it into words before
--gently shows the MC talking to a doctor/therapist for the very first time
--helps to remove anxiety about how safe they'll feel talking to a doctor, providing hope
--shows what that can be like over time and how doctor's visits are a safe space where relief can be found, rather than a source of terror or evidence of weakness
--shows a character being introduced to the concept of meds, and deciding whether it's for them
--shows that they have agency and are 100% part of the decision making process, no one is making decisions without them -- feeling agency may be a revelation to them
--sets expectations showing them that there are different options, with different benefits and side effects
--sets expectations that finding the right med for them is a process and that side effects are real
--shows that getting a diagnosis can be a relief, rather than being the end of the world
--they are not alone or abnormal -- there are other people out there experiencing the exact same things
--they are not alone or broken -- there are other people out there with struggles of their own that the MC relates to with empathy and sympathy
--shows how relationships can be built and a broader social life can thrive despite struggles
--gives examples of characters making real progress, and what positive strides can look like
Readers will find the following diagnoses represented among the students: depression, anxiety, dissociation, bipolar (2), trauma.
It manages to do all of this in the graphic novel format and reduces big, scary, abstract issues down to a simple, relatable, engaging story that moves along swiftly. An easy read in one sitting; literally zero spots that drag. I never once had the urge to put it down and come back to it.
If it sounds super heavy, that's the fault of my review -- not a fault of the book. It does not read heavy at all. The tone is one of encouragement and reassurance resulting in a hopeful outlook. And for those struggling, feeling hope can be half the battle itself.
August 22, 2022
This short graphic novel about a young woman struggling with the overwhelming newness of life as a college student covers heavy topics like mental health, anxiety, feelings of isolation, therapy, medication, sexual harassment, and both manic and depressive episodes. When our main character begins taking medication for her anxiety, the side effects give her strange powers - electric touch, astral projection, telepathy, and superhuman strength.
I enjoyed this frank and open look at mental health and the stressors of starting college, making a new life for yourself, making new friends, meeting cute girls, tackling tough and emotional challenges. I think it falls along the same vein as the Heartstopper graphic novels and the gn Genderqueer, but with a bit of a fantastical element - medications that give the main character superpowers. I think this will be a valuable tool for teenagers learning about mental health, medication, anxiety, loved ones' mental health, and therapy.
However, I don't think this novel had clear direction. For the first few medications our MC was prescribed, I thought the author was using the superpower metaphor as a way to address the very real-world side effects that can come with medication, especially with the dissociating side effect. And then I thought maybe the character was gaining courage to interact with the world a bit more each time she found a medication that worked slightly better, and the side effects were supposed to show that? But neither ever came full circle. The superpowers were supposed to be taken literally, I guess, and never really served as a device - or at least not one that I understood. In the end it felt like the story wanted to be two things and didn't commit to either of them - on one hand, a sci-fi-y graphic novel about a super-kid with mental health struggles, or a regular kid with mental health struggles who becomes super when they start medication and therapy... On the other hand, it felt like a YA coming-of-age novel about a normal person who has mental health struggles and is learning how to handle them with the help of their friends, loved ones, and therapist. I honestly would've enjoyed either one but this sort of split the difference and left me searching for more.
I enjoyed this frank and open look at mental health and the stressors of starting college, making a new life for yourself, making new friends, meeting cute girls, tackling tough and emotional challenges. I think it falls along the same vein as the Heartstopper graphic novels and the gn Genderqueer, but with a bit of a fantastical element - medications that give the main character superpowers. I think this will be a valuable tool for teenagers learning about mental health, medication, anxiety, loved ones' mental health, and therapy.
However, I don't think this novel had clear direction. For the first few medications our MC was prescribed, I thought the author was using the superpower metaphor as a way to address the very real-world side effects that can come with medication, especially with the dissociating side effect. And then I thought maybe the character was gaining courage to interact with the world a bit more each time she found a medication that worked slightly better, and the side effects were supposed to show that? But neither ever came full circle. The superpowers were supposed to be taken literally, I guess, and never really served as a device - or at least not one that I understood. In the end it felt like the story wanted to be two things and didn't commit to either of them - on one hand, a sci-fi-y graphic novel about a super-kid with mental health struggles, or a regular kid with mental health struggles who becomes super when they start medication and therapy... On the other hand, it felt like a YA coming-of-age novel about a normal person who has mental health struggles and is learning how to handle them with the help of their friends, loved ones, and therapist. I honestly would've enjoyed either one but this sort of split the difference and left me searching for more.
Read
September 23, 2022Hannah is struggling at university and reluctantly concludes that, as well as therapy, maybe she does need medication. Medication which helps her not spend all day lying trapped in bed by the weight of the world, but which – well, the title is right there. The twist being, she doesn't just get a bit jittery, she gives off literal electric shocks; after changing her prescription, she doesn't just dissociate, she astral projects. Now, obviously reifying facets of everyday life in such a way as to make them clearer is one of the many uses of non-realist genres, but there was still something about the execution here which made me feel like it would have been more at home as a webcomic than a graphic novel. You know the sort of thing – a useful explainer of a concept like consent or spoons, rendered as a dozen or so panels, shared on to your timeline. And that's not intended as a diss of those comics, which can be very good and are often useful, but once you present them this way instead of that, I look at them with a different eye, and judge less fondly the way that Side Effects does feel more concerned with being useful than being good art. The therapist in particular is an absolute dream of the kind, thoughtful, helpful professional every patient hopes to get, rather than anything recognisable as a human being, but the cast in general are (beyond a few small roles for obvious bad lots) lovely and understanding and express their feelings clearly in exactly the sort of way people don't. When this gets turned up another notch in a daydream sequence, it's as hilarious as it's meant to be ("I'm not scared of failure or toilet snakes or mass extinction anymore! Hello there, attractive person! Shall we have consensual kissing now?"), but having the whole story operate only a little below that level gets a bit cloying – not to mention leading to raised eyebrows when Hannah and friends go to see an indie rom-com and there are lots of digs about how nobody really talks like the characters in those films. Side Effects undoubtedly means well, and has some genuinely sweet moments, but at least at this length, it's far too direct and didactic for my tastes.
(Edelweiss ARC)
(Edelweiss ARC)
October 20, 2022
Hello Again!
It’s been a fairly busy week but I have been trying to squeeze in some time for reading (including finishing a massive audiobook that I can not wait to talk about next week)! But in the meantime, I am still reading a ton of graphic novels and manga! Today’s graphic novel, was an E-ARC I was super excited to read, so let’s jump in!
SPOILERS AHEAD
Hannah is a freshman in college! This is the first time she is really living away from home and well she might be excited for all the new things on the horizon so she is also feeling a lot of emotions. Being alone far away with a new roommate (who is super kind and caring) is kinda a lot. Shortly into her semester Hannah starts to feel really down and spends a lot of time in bed, crying and sleeping. Her roommate helps get her out of bed and to a clinic to talk to a mental health professional. Hannah’s talk is really helpful and she is given some medication that might help her as well as follow-up appointments. Hannah is very skeptical about the medicine and tells no one. So when she starts to take it and gets some weird side effects, it’s a big deal. But Hannah is going to keep trying to get better and maybe along the way she can meet some amazing people at college who she can be herself with.
I loved this graphic novel so much, I ended up picking up a physical copy. Hannah’s story is amazing and definitely relatable to many people who are headed off to college and will be away from their families and everything they know for the first time. Hannah, her roommate, and her other new friends are all amazing and supportive when they do learn she needs help. The art style was also amazing, there were lots of nice clear lines and the characters were each given a special design. I really really loved this story, if you are looking for a great graphic novel definitely give this one a try!
Goodreads Rating: 5 Stars
**Thank you so much to the publisher for an E-ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
It’s been a fairly busy week but I have been trying to squeeze in some time for reading (including finishing a massive audiobook that I can not wait to talk about next week)! But in the meantime, I am still reading a ton of graphic novels and manga! Today’s graphic novel, was an E-ARC I was super excited to read, so let’s jump in!
SPOILERS AHEAD
Hannah is a freshman in college! This is the first time she is really living away from home and well she might be excited for all the new things on the horizon so she is also feeling a lot of emotions. Being alone far away with a new roommate (who is super kind and caring) is kinda a lot. Shortly into her semester Hannah starts to feel really down and spends a lot of time in bed, crying and sleeping. Her roommate helps get her out of bed and to a clinic to talk to a mental health professional. Hannah’s talk is really helpful and she is given some medication that might help her as well as follow-up appointments. Hannah is very skeptical about the medicine and tells no one. So when she starts to take it and gets some weird side effects, it’s a big deal. But Hannah is going to keep trying to get better and maybe along the way she can meet some amazing people at college who she can be herself with.
I loved this graphic novel so much, I ended up picking up a physical copy. Hannah’s story is amazing and definitely relatable to many people who are headed off to college and will be away from their families and everything they know for the first time. Hannah, her roommate, and her other new friends are all amazing and supportive when they do learn she needs help. The art style was also amazing, there were lots of nice clear lines and the characters were each given a special design. I really really loved this story, if you are looking for a great graphic novel definitely give this one a try!
Goodreads Rating: 5 Stars
**Thank you so much to the publisher for an E-ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.
October 13, 2022
I was offered an advance copy, PDF, from the publisher. I accepted. This is a graphic novel. As an advance copy, it is black and white. The published form is full color, so I can't tell you how color effects the story. In black and white, it's pretty good.
Hannah has started college and she's in full panic mode. She has made being anxious a full time activity. She's pretty good at being anxious. She so good at it, she can't leave her dorm room. Even she knows that won't work, not if she wants to graduate. So she goes to the campus health clinic, gets therapy, and is given an assortment of antianxiety medications. Her therapist tells her to check how she feels and what side effects she spots as they go through the drugs and doses to find the best one for her.
All drugs have side effects. Mostly it's headaches or sleeplessness or tiredness or something annoying but minor. Not so in Hannah's case. She gets to hear people's thoughts or astral project or shoot lightening bolts. Hannah doesn't want superpowers but she gets them. All she wants is to be normal, get some friends and attend her classes.
It's a very charming story. I liked it. It's a different way of looking at mental problems and how to handle them.
Like I said, I was offered this graphic novel by the publisher. I wrote this reader review because I felt it was the proper response for a free read and because I write reader reviews for all books I read.
Hannah has started college and she's in full panic mode. She has made being anxious a full time activity. She's pretty good at being anxious. She so good at it, she can't leave her dorm room. Even she knows that won't work, not if she wants to graduate. So she goes to the campus health clinic, gets therapy, and is given an assortment of antianxiety medications. Her therapist tells her to check how she feels and what side effects she spots as they go through the drugs and doses to find the best one for her.
All drugs have side effects. Mostly it's headaches or sleeplessness or tiredness or something annoying but minor. Not so in Hannah's case. She gets to hear people's thoughts or astral project or shoot lightening bolts. Hannah doesn't want superpowers but she gets them. All she wants is to be normal, get some friends and attend her classes.
It's a very charming story. I liked it. It's a different way of looking at mental problems and how to handle them.
Like I said, I was offered this graphic novel by the publisher. I wrote this reader review because I felt it was the proper response for a free read and because I write reader reviews for all books I read.
October 13, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Side Effects is a graphic novel that deals heavily on mental health issues, there's also discussions surrounding sexual harassment and stigma. Our mc, Hannah, is a freshman in college and has started struggling with intense bouts of depression and decides to go see a psychiatrist. After being prescribed meds, she starts experiencing some side effects—but these aren't the usual kind, they are super powers. From giving electric zaps to telepathy, Hannah makes her way through various different meds in the hopes of finding one that helps her be "normal"—even if she isn't quite sure what that means.
The premise of this book was extremely interesting and I do wish it had been a little bit longer. At times it feels as though the topics are dealt with in a manner that feels rushed and almost preachy. There were times in which I could feel myself inside of Hannah's mind—that's when Side Effects truly shined. However, the pacing and lack of trust of the author on their readers didn't work on its favor. The art was definitely an interesting style that definitely added a lot of value to the novel.
Side Effects is a quick read and I do think that people who have experienced—or are experiencing—some of the things that Hannah is going through will find some comfort in knowing that they're not alone.
Side Effects is a graphic novel that deals heavily on mental health issues, there's also discussions surrounding sexual harassment and stigma. Our mc, Hannah, is a freshman in college and has started struggling with intense bouts of depression and decides to go see a psychiatrist. After being prescribed meds, she starts experiencing some side effects—but these aren't the usual kind, they are super powers. From giving electric zaps to telepathy, Hannah makes her way through various different meds in the hopes of finding one that helps her be "normal"—even if she isn't quite sure what that means.
The premise of this book was extremely interesting and I do wish it had been a little bit longer. At times it feels as though the topics are dealt with in a manner that feels rushed and almost preachy. There were times in which I could feel myself inside of Hannah's mind—that's when Side Effects truly shined. However, the pacing and lack of trust of the author on their readers didn't work on its favor. The art was definitely an interesting style that definitely added a lot of value to the novel.
Side Effects is a quick read and I do think that people who have experienced—or are experiencing—some of the things that Hannah is going through will find some comfort in knowing that they're not alone.
August 24, 2022
I received an eARC of this book at no charge so I could read and review it. Thank you for this opportunity.
Side Effects is probably one of the best depictions I’ve seen in fiction as to how anxiety feels, and how the struggle to find balance is ongoing and has ups and downs. Through the graphic novel, the reader gets to see Hannah’s thoughts, feelings and changes. The graphic novella format is extremely accessible to readers, and would be particularly good for reluctant readers. As typical of the genre, a lot of the development happens via the illustrations, which have a casual feel and focus on facial expressions and body language. . The concept of medication both positive and negative effects will ring true for those who use medication to manage any condition, and I’m sure many readers wIll wish their medication gives super strength or telepathy. The relationship between Hannah and Iz is authentic and non-graphic. There is minor depiction of underage drinking, not unrealistic (and it’s a sign that the medication is effective), but something to be considered in adopting this book for a school setting. There is a diverse cast and many people will see themselves in the characters.
Overall, this book is worthy of inclusion just due to being positive representation of mental illness and the recovery process.
Side Effects is probably one of the best depictions I’ve seen in fiction as to how anxiety feels, and how the struggle to find balance is ongoing and has ups and downs. Through the graphic novel, the reader gets to see Hannah’s thoughts, feelings and changes. The graphic novella format is extremely accessible to readers, and would be particularly good for reluctant readers. As typical of the genre, a lot of the development happens via the illustrations, which have a casual feel and focus on facial expressions and body language. . The concept of medication both positive and negative effects will ring true for those who use medication to manage any condition, and I’m sure many readers wIll wish their medication gives super strength or telepathy. The relationship between Hannah and Iz is authentic and non-graphic. There is minor depiction of underage drinking, not unrealistic (and it’s a sign that the medication is effective), but something to be considered in adopting this book for a school setting. There is a diverse cast and many people will see themselves in the characters.
Overall, this book is worthy of inclusion just due to being positive representation of mental illness and the recovery process.
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