Hal Friedman

Hardly what I expected from a James Patterson book, but this ends up being a rather inspiring story about the struggles of a young boy, and his family, dealing with Tourette's and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I didn't really care for the approach of writing the book as if it truly was in the words of the affected child, but even so, it's a sobering story worth reading. There's strength to be gained from reading about the dedication of the family, doctors, teachers, etc., and an gives one show more an appreciation of life for those blessed with more normal lives. show less

This is basically a memoir of a boy with extreme OCD and Tourette's (written from his notes by his father and James Patterson). I found what he had to deal with both fascinating and horrifying, and there's quite a bit of suspense in the mystery of what will happen next.

This was a heart-breaking and also inspiring look at one young man's struggle with Tourette's Syndrome. I have to say that it reinforced my feelings of caution towards medication. Not that I don't think medication can be helpful, but as Cory's family found - it's hard to know exactly what is having certain effects when there are so many medications involved. I felt like I had a better understanding of Tourette's and OCD, as well as more empathy for those suffering from various mental show more disorders. Still, I can imagine it was extremely challenging for all those who cared for and coped with Cory during his growing up years. I am so impressed and inspired by his parents. As the parent of a child who has his own mild difficulties, I feel a renewed desire to be a more patient and understanding mother. show less

I enjoyed reading this account of Tourette's Syndrome, as suffered by Cory from age five. The authors did a good job of portraying Cory's perspective on his condition. However, I struggled with the amount of honesty/objectivity there was in the writing. The preface says it was written by Cory's father, based largely on diaries kept by the mother. The father then shared the text with James Patterson who turned it into a book. But, it is written in Cory's voice! There is no information on the show more struggles or reactions of Cory's parents, so they come across as very loving, but two-dimensional. And the style is vintage Patterson -- lots of cliff hangers. I thought the book ending abruptly, with no information on Cory's ongoing struggles and successes. It is written as if, one day, bam! he was better. Still, an interesting and educational read, including for young people. show less