Jackson by Lynn McLaughlin is a short work of fiction that unmasks the tragedy and triumph of mental illness. This fight for psychological survival centers on Jackson and his mother. Jackson is symbolic of millions living with some form of mental illness, and his mother represents the millions who have their own struggles caring for someone with a mental health issue. This story is about the two people separately, and together. It's mental illness that knits them together, but love that guides them through the dark waters of it. The book opens with Jackson telling his story of how it was for him when he was young and at school, about his anger toward feeling different from others but trying hard to fit in. He felt like he was the only one in the world that felt the way he did. Then we move to June's story, where she gives the family background and what it was like being a mother to Jackson, raising him and watching helplessly as he grappled with his issues, and her own.

McLaughlin has a raw, emotional way of relaying the anguish and frustration that comes with mental illness in a family. I especially like how June is portrayed as the typical loving mother, and Craig the typical father, who can see that their child is struggling with explosive rage and temper tantrums. Like most parents, they just don't understand what it means, and they blame themselves, and each other. I like that they try their best to figure it out, consult with professionals, and still didn't have answers. This is an honest portrayal of the process that most parents go through to get to the bottom of a mental health issue. As you read, you will appreciate Jackson's point of view, feel for his struggle, and admire how he tries to help himself and sort it all out. The author has done a great service with this book, by shining a light on families who deal with mental illness. The author includes info and resources for readers too. Make sure to put Jackson by Lynn McLaughlin at the top of your self-help reading list.