Writing That Goes Beyond the Story

"Beautifully written, heart-wrenching, and hopeful. Necessary reading for anyone who wants a peek inside the mind of someone who journeyed through mental illness and found hope on the other side."

"A candid, graceful, and courageous account that will offer a lifeline to others."

"Mark's 'So-Called Normal' is a mesmerizing, heart-stopping must read. I could not put it down! His story is the real thing; I know because I've been there."

"Mark courageously delves into the painful parts of his life — laying bare the realities of mental illness. This book is a beacon of hope. It's a ray of light and learning for all of us."

"If you couldn't stop watching Mark's brave TEDTalk, you will be blown away by the full story as told by Mark in searing detail. This may save the life of someone you care about."

"So-Called Normal is a triumph of authenticity. Mark Henick spares no detail in recounting his harrowing encounters with trauma, family dysfunction, and mental illness. The result is a captivating, vital work of incredible endurance, persistence, and hope."

"Mark Henick helped save my life one night. This book might save yours."

"Highly recommended for anyone who has ever struggled with mental illness themselves or who has watched someone else they care about struggle. In other words, it's a book for pretty much all of us."

"Who says miracles have to happen all at once? Compelling, beautifully written and inspiring, Henick's memoir will help you find the light at the end of your own tunnel."

"Mark's unflinching honesty brings it into the light. So-Called Normal is more than a personal story of hope. It is essential reading for anyone dealing with mental health issues."

"Very well written. The flow just kept me reading and I finished the book in 2 sittings. Emotional read! Joy, anger, happiness, sadness — all the feelings felt while reading this book. Highly recommend!"

"I was captivated by Mark Henick's heartfelt and honest story. Whether you are learning to live with depression yourself or living with someone who has a mental illness, Mark's story will encourage and inspire."

"So-Called Normal is Mark Henick telling his truth and no one else's, which is why this memoir is rich in brave realities. He does not speak for anyone else, but what he tells will reverberate and is an important realization to those who have been in the same situation or know someone who has traversed a similar path."

"Used this in our nursing education program. It generated more meaningful discussion than any case study I've ever assigned. Students were still talking about it weeks later."

"An engrossing memoir, written with the flourish generally only found in fiction. This is a beautiful book — where I would normally say that the memoir will be treasured by the author's descendants, in the case of Mark Henick I can confidently say this will also be treasured by the strangers who read it. Highly recommended."

"The subject matter can be hard to read at times, but this memoir is well worth the effort. Sharing these experiences in such a detailed and knowledgeable way allows readers to feel much less alone. The emotions are so clearly written that it felt more like I was experiencing the book than reading it."

"I loved this story. I could not stop listening to it — so much so I want the book signed by Mark Henick."

"I've been a fan of the author for years after seeing his TEDx talk, and this book met and exceeded all of my expectations. It felt so personal and relatable. There is no other way to say this — So-Called Normal is a must read."

"Very worth the read and listen. You will cry, laugh, and at times be shocked with what Mark had to endure growing up. Thank you, Mark, for sharing your story. It needed to be told."