“Turtles All the Way Down” is a novel written by John Green and was published in 2017. The book revolves around the story of a sixteen-year-old girl named Aza Holmes who struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety. The story takes place in Indianapolis and follows Aza and her best friend, Daisy Ramirez, as they attempt to solve the mystery of the disappearance of a local billionaire, Russell Pickett.
The novel is primarily focused on Aza’s struggles with mental illness and how it impacts her life and relationships. Aza is plagued by intrusive thoughts that are often centered on the fear of contracting Clostridium difficile (C. diff), a potentially fatal bacterial infection. These thoughts cause her to spiral into panic attacks and compulsive behaviors, such as cleaning and handwashing, in an attempt to alleviate her anxiety. Aza also experiences a pervasive sense of self-doubt and an inability to trust herself and others, which further isolates her from those around her.
As Aza and Daisy delve deeper into the mystery of Russell Pickett’s disappearance, Aza reconnects with Davis, Pickett’s son, whom she knew from a summer camp they both attended as children. Aza and Davis begin to form a romantic connection, but Aza’s mental illness creates obstacles in their relationship. Aza struggles to be present in the moment and connect with Davis, and her obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors make it difficult for her to be intimate with him.
The novel also explores the impact of mental illness on Aza’s relationships with her mother and therapist. Aza’s mother is often frustrated and overwhelmed by her daughter’s illness, and she struggles to understand the depth of Aza’s suffering. Aza’s therapist, Dr. Singh, provides guidance and support but is ultimately limited in her ability to fully alleviate Aza’s symptoms.
Throughout the novel, Aza’s struggles with mental illness are portrayed with a deep sense of empathy and understanding. Green depicts Aza’s experiences with OCD and anxiety in a way that is both accurate and compassionate, and he emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support when struggling with mental illness.
The theme of suicide is also present in the novel, as Russell Pickett is believed to have disappeared in order to avoid facing charges for a financial crime he committed. Aza, who has had suicidal thoughts in the past, is particularly affected by Pickett’s disappearance, as she begins to see parallels between her own struggles with mental illness and Pickett’s decision to end his own life in order to escape his problems. The novel explores the impact of suicide on those left behind and emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help when struggling with suicidal ideation.
Overall, “Turtles All the Way Down” is a powerful and moving novel that offers a nuanced and compassionate portrayal of mental illness. Through Aza’s experiences, Green highlights the challenges of living with OCD and anxiety and the importance of seeking help and support when struggling with mental illness. The novel also explores the impact of mental illness on relationships and emphasizes the need for understanding and empathy when interacting with those who are struggling.
The novel also sheds light on the theme of suicide, and how it can be a desperate attempt to escape pain and suffering. Green portrays the devastating impact that suicide can have on loved ones, and emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support when struggling with suicidal ideation.
In conclusion, “Turtles All the Way Down” is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that offers a powerful message of hope and resilience in the face of mental illness. Through his masterful storytelling and deep empathy for his characters, John Green has created a work of literature that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.