No no no. I was almost 1/2 way through this. I could not hang on. There are times when I feel like I should have read the physical book instead of listening to the audio and vice versa. I think if I would've read this, there would've been some enjoyment. I don't know if it was because the author was the narrator, which sometimes does not work. Or, if the novel lacked any interest. I think eventually I'm going to give the physical book ago.

I am blown away by this audiobook, on so many levels—personal (shared struggles,) universal (helpful to so many,) and technical (amazing writing skills.)

On the personal level, I am blown away that Kent (his amazing wife) agreed to David writing about his infidelity, their divorce, and their remarriage. So much healing. So much grace from God. And that his (living) children agreed for him to write about their issues. I’m sure I’m not the only reader who wept oceans of tears reading his candid accounts of these struggles.

David’s not the only person writing about sobriety (his) and eating disorders (his daughter’s) but these are such important issues that we need to hear over and over again. Since I have struggled and still struggle with both—alcohol and eating disorders—possibly both of which have sprung from my childhood sexual abuse and social pressure growing up in Mississippi where all girls/women are supposed to be beautiful and skinny, I can relate to so much in this amazing book, as I’m sure many other readers can.

David’s no newbie when it comes to writing skills. He cut his teeth on journalism and moved on to creative nonfiction, which I believe he was born to write. The critics must agree, as he has racked up many awards for his work.

I was sad to finish A Little Crazy . . . looking around for what book I might read next. I’ve just sent my latest anthology, Memphis Cares: Homelessness, Hunger, Mental Illness, and Incarceration, off to a press who in interested in publishing. This will be my tenth published book, if it is accepted. I wonder if I’m “done” . . . or if some of the demons I’ve chased might push me into another memoir, with David’s inspiration. Maybe I’m done. Maybe I’m tired of dealing with publishers and marketing. Maybe I just need to stop and be still and let the lessons I’ve learned sink in. Maybe.

Audio Version
Overall Grade: B+
Information/Memoir: A-
Writing/Organization: B
Narration: B
Best Aspect: Very blunt about life with addition and grief.
Worst Aspect: Some sections didn’t hold my interest.
Recommend: Yes.

David Magee’s *A Little Crazy* is a candid and heartfelt exploration of personal struggles with addiction, mental health, and grief, all while navigating a journey toward redemption. Magee’s openness about his battles with ADHD, anxiety, and depression provides a relatable and necessary voice in breaking stigma around these challenges. While his recovery and advocacy work are inspiring, the narrative sometimes feels overly polished, losing the raw emotional depth that made *Dear William* so impactful. Still, Magee’s message about resilience, faith, and the importance of seeking help is valuable, making this a worthwhile read for those in search of hope and guidance. 3 stars.

In A Little Crazy, David Magee presents a raw, intimate account of his personal struggles with mental illness and addiction and the effects it has had on his life and family. He reveals not only his own battles but also how these issues impact those closest to him. Magee’s writing is candid and honest, and his narrative makes it clear that living with mental illness often brings chaotic highs and crushing lows. However, I really struggled with the lack of structure and narrative arc, and I didn’t find the author as relatable as I expected to.