Strangers to Ourselves

Strangers to Ourselves by Rachel Aviv is a compelling exploration into the intricate labyrinths of mental illness and identity. The narrative draws readers into the lives of five individuals, each confronting the complex boundaries where psychiatry, personal history, and identity intersect. Through poignant and intimate storytelling, Aviv illuminates their journeys, revealing how mental illness is not just a medical condition but an existential experience that shapes our very sense of self.

Aviv expertly weaves the stories of these individuals with her own reflections, crafting a narrative that is as intellectually engaging as it is emotionally resonant. The book challenges the conventional psychiatric narratives by posing critical questions: Do the stories we construct around mental illness influence its trajectory? In what ways do these narratives either liberate or confine us?

Drawing from her extensive reporting, Aviv's insightful examination goes beyond mere observation. She delves into her subjects' lives, sharing their candid testimonies and pivotal moments, creating a deeply humane and profound account. The deeply personal experiences presented in Strangers to Ourselves reveal the often hidden and multifaceted nature of mental health struggles, making this book a significant contribution to the discourse on mental illness.

This debut work by the award-winning New Yorker writer is both a compassionate inquiry and a revelatory critique of the stories we tell about mental illness. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the human condition and the ways we understand and narrate our inner worlds, especially in times of crisis and distress.