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Highly Illogical Behavior summary
Brief summary
Highly Illogical Behavior by John Corey Whaley is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of mental illness. It follows the story of a teenage boy named Solomon who suffers from severe agoraphobia and the unlikely friendship he forms with a girl named Lisa.
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Highly Illogical Behavior
Summary of key ideas
Understanding Agoraphobia and Friendship
In Highly Illogical Behavior by John Corey Whaley, we are introduced to Solomon Reed, a teenage boy who has been diagnosed with agoraphobia. He hasn't left his house in three years, and his only friends are his parents and his grandmother. Solomon's life is confined to the four walls of his home, and he spends his days watching old Star Trek episodes and reading.
Enter Lisa Praytor, an ambitious and driven high school student who learns about Solomon's condition through a class project. Lisa sees this as an opportunity to 'fix' Solomon and write an essay about her experience, which she believes will help her get into a prestigious psychology program. She decides to befriend Solomon and, with the help of her boyfriend, Clark, gradually introduce him to the outside world.
Unconventional Friendship and Healing
Initially, Solomon is wary of Lisa's intentions, but he is also intrigued by her determination. Lisa's relentless pursuit of helping him begins to break down his walls, and he starts to venture outside with her and Clark. As their friendship grows, Solomon begins to believe in the possibility of a 'normal' life, and Lisa starts to question her initial motives for befriending him.
However, as Lisa and Clark's relationship with Solomon deepens, they begin to confront their own personal issues. Lisa struggles with her sexual identity and her true feelings for Solomon, while Clark battles with his desire to leave their small town for a better life. Despite their initial intentions, the trio forms an unconventional and meaningful bond.
The Truth Unveiled
As their friendship deepens, Lisa's initial plan to 'fix' Solomon begins to unravel. She realizes that she genuinely cares for him and is no longer interested in exploiting his condition for her own gain. However, when Solomon discovers the real reason behind their friendship, he feels betrayed and hurt, and retreats back into his agoraphobic state.
Meanwhile, Clark, who has developed a close friendship with Solomon, is devastated by the entire situation. Lisa is forced to confront her own actions and their consequences, and she is left with the difficult task of making amends and helping Solomon heal.
Healing and Forgiveness
In the end, Highly Illogical Behavior is a story about healing, forgiveness, and the complexities of friendship. Lisa, Clark, and Solomon are forced to confront their own insecurities and fears, and through their experiences, they grow and evolve as individuals.
Solomon eventually forgives Lisa, recognizing that her initial intentions were misguided but her friendship was genuine. Lisa, in turn, learns to forgive herself and accepts her own flaws. Clark decides to stay in their small town to support Solomon, realizing that his friendship with Solomon is more important than his own ambitions.
In conclusion, Highly Illogical Behavior is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores the themes of mental illness, friendship, and the complexities of human emotions. It challenges our perceptions of what it means to be 'normal' and shows us that true friendship can transcend even the most challenging of circumstances.
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What is Highly Illogical Behavior about?
Highly Illogical Behavior by John Corey Whaley is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of mental illness and the power of human connection. It tells the story of a teenage boy named Solomon, who has severe agoraphobia and has not left his house in three years. When a determined girl named Lisa sets out to "fix" him as part of a school project, their lives become intertwined in unexpected ways. This book challenges societal norms and offers a unique perspective on the meaning of true friendship.
Highly Illogical Behavior Review
Highly Illogical Behavior (2016) follows the life of a teenager with agoraphobia and two friends who try to "fix" him. Here's why this book is a good read:
- Offers a unique perspective on mental health, portraying agoraphobia realistically and sensitively.
- Explores the complexities of friendship and the impact of genuine connection on personal growth.
- With its empathetic approach to mental health struggles and heartwarming moments, it keeps readers captivated and invested in the characters' journeys.
Who should read Highly Illogical Behavior?
Readers who enjoy realistic and relatable young adult fiction
Those interested in mental health and its portrayal in literature
Individuals who appreciate complex and well-developed characters
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Highly Illogical Behavior FAQs
What is the main message of Highly Illogical Behavior?
The main message of Highly Illogical Behavior explores mental health, friendship, and personal growth.
How long does it take to read Highly Illogical Behavior?
The estimated reading time for Highly Illogical Behavior is a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is Highly Illogical Behavior a good book? Is it worth reading?
Highly Illogical Behavior is worth reading for its insightful portrayal of mental health and relationships.
Who is the author of Highly Illogical Behavior?
John Corey Whaley is the author of Highly Illogical Behavior.
What to read after Highly Illogical Behavior?
If you're wondering what to read next after Highly Illogical Behavior, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright