Solutions and Other Problems

By: Allie Brosh

4/5 Weird Neighbor Kids

Words cannot describe how much I love Allie Brosh - Hyperbole and a Half came into my life when I was dealing with depression and anxiety but didn't know it. I had these feelings that I couldn't name and didn't even know were abnormal. I simply thought everyone lived like this.

My best friend, who also suffers from depression and anxiety, told me that I may be able to relate to Hyperbole and a Half, and possibly identify my feelings. This is exactly why it is so important for us to write and publish books about "taboo" subjects! I discovered a piece of myself by simply reading a humorous graphic novel.

Solutions and Other Problems took years to come out, but I can't fault Allie for that. In fact, she discusses why the publishing was delayed, and my heart hurt for her. Between a divorce and her sister's suicide, Allie faced a lot of tough obstacles... It would've been completely understandable if she had scrapped this book altogether. Luckily, she didn't, and we got this magical gem!!

I don't even know how to summarize this book - it's nearly impossible to. Many say they liked it better than her first, and it was close for me, but I still liked her first more. Despite this, Allie's writings and drawings are as strong and random as ever. This book had me laughing out loud and even crying at some points. I think everyone needs to read her work and just take a load off! I'm so incredibly thankful Allie has shared her stories with the world!