Everything is OK by Debbie Tung

Graphic Novel, YA, Mental Health, Depression, Anxiety

4.5/5 Stars

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a free e-copy in exchange for an honest review!

A beautifully illustrated and poignant memoir about the realities of anxiety and depression and overcoming everything that comes with it.

I loved everything about this book. I'll start with the art, it's so effortlessly beautiful, the simplicity of it is perfect in contrast with the heavy material included within this graphic novel. The majority of the art work is in black and white, except for some shining moments where our protagonist has a breakthrough and there's a burst of colour.

The book itself is about the author and their journey to overcome their depression and anxiety, written and shown in a way that is extremely relatable if you have dealt with these issues before. Tung doesn't sugar-coat or avoid talking about the realities of depression and anxiety, including a lot of people's fears of not being good enough and being afraid to talk to someone about how they're feeling.

As someone with anxiety, it was hard to read this book and see someone going through something I also struggle with, but it also made me feel normal because although I know many people have anxiety, I never know the extent of it to some people. I felt seen.

If you struggle with anxiety and/or depression, or know someone who does then I highly recommend that you read this book once it's released, because it not only shows the realities of living with anxiety and depression, but it shows the journey of recovery and finding a therapist or just someone to talk to.

Release Date: September 27th 2022