How I Made It to Eighteen by Tracy White

White, T. (2010). How I Made It to Eighteen. New York: Roaring Book Press. ISBN 9781596434547

 

Plot Summary 

How I Made It To Eighteen is Tracy White's mostly autobiographical story--she says its 95% accurate--about her stay in a mental health facility following a breakdown at 17.  When Tracy, here Stacy, graduates high school, she is forced by her mother to move out because she does not plan on attending college.  A menial job, a drug habit, and unsupportive live-in boyfriend combine with general feelings of being lost to Stacy breaking down and entering Golden Meadows, a mental health facility.  Over several months, her experiences are recorded, including joint therapy sessions with her mother that produce mixed results.  Stacy finds that Golden Meadows is not the quick fix she desired, and she will have to put a lot of work into feeling like her old self.

Critical Evaluation 

This story is an in-depth look at depression, its causes, and what it feels like to try to get better while encountering roadblocks.  The book is separated into sections that denote how long Stacy has been in rehab, and they are punctuated by interviews with her friends asking questions about whether they recognized any issues with Stacy whether they think she can overcome her depression.  Getting outside viewpoints on Stacy's depression makes her situation more fleshed out and nuanced.

Reader's Annotation 

For some it is hard to adjust to life after high school, but for Tracy White, it was too hard.  Checking herself into Golden Meadows is her last resort to feel normal again.

Author Information 

Even on her official website, there is little information about White.  In her book, her bio merely states "Tracy White grew up in New York City and still lives there.  This is her first book."

Genre 

graphic novel, autobiography

Curriculum Ties 

Reading and Language Arts

Booktalking Ideas 

Speak as one of White's friends, responding to a potential interview question about how they see White at a certain point compared to how they observed her before checking herself into Golden Meadows.

Reading Level/Interest Age 

This book is suitable to older teens, as White's story begins as she graduated college and is unsure of what to do next.

Challenge Issues 

Bulemia, depression, and drug abuse are all present.

If challenged, I would first suggest being familiar with the work in order to speak about it directly. Then, listen the challenger's complaint, show them to positive reviews, and refer to the collection policy, stating a need to include a variety of works that may not be suitable for all, but should contain something for everyone. As a last resort, turn to the ALA Bill of Rights or First Amendment defense, but try not to let things get there; listen and reassure the patron.

Reason Selected

The graphic novel format, coupled with interview questions from some of Tracy's friends show an enlightening side to her depression.