Book Review: More or Less Maddy by Lisa Genova – A Powerful Story of Bipolar Disorder and Identity @LGenova001 @SimonAudio

More or Less Maddy is a deeply moving exploration of bipolar disorder and its effect on identity, trust, and family.

Summary:

More or Less Maddy novel follows Maddy Banks, a freshman at NYU who, amid academic pressure, a recent breakup, and lifelong feelings of not fitting in, experiences a devastating low that leads to a bipolar diagnosis. Initially seeking stability through medication, she soon spirals into a manic high, forcing her to confront the complexities of her identity, relationships, and aspirations. Rejecting the expectations of a “normal” life, Maddy pursues a career in stand-up comedy, navigating the challenges of being both “too much” and “not enough.” With deep empathy and insight, Genova delivers a moving exploration of mental health and self-discovery.

My Thoughts:

Lisa Genova has done it again—taking on a difficult, often overlooked subject with the kind of depth and empathy that makes her books impossible to put down. More or Less Maddy is a powerful, emotional story about identity, mental health, and the delicate balance between independence and support. As both a neuroscientist and a gifted storyteller, Genova has a rare ability to educate while crafting characters who feel achingly real.

Maddy Banks is a freshman at NYU, overwhelmed by the pressures of university life, a recent breakup, and the loneliness of not quite fitting in. When her depression reaches a devastating low, she seeks help and starts on an antidepressant. Soon, she’s feeling incredible—better than ever, in fact. But that high quickly spirals into mania, leading to a terrifying hospital stay and a bipolar diagnosis that changes everything.

As Maddy struggles to navigate her new reality, she finds an escape in writing and performing stand-up comedy. Comedy gives her a sense of purpose, a way to reclaim control, but it also feeds into the highs and lows of her illness in ways that may not be the healthiest for her. Genova doesn’t shy away from the complexities of this choice—how something that feels so right in the moment can be both empowering and self-destructive.

Genova’s portrayal of Maddy’s mental illness is vivid and unflinching. Her first manic episode is described with such intensity that I felt like I was right there with her, caught up in the rush of thoughts and energy. The challenges of finding the right combination of medications is discussed – enough to control the highs and lows of her disease while limiting the side effects of the medication. The book also does an excellent job exploring how bipolar disorder affects not just Maddy, but her entire family. It addresses both the stigma and shame of mental illness. Her mother’s fear and instinct to hide the diagnosis, the struggle between giving Maddy freedom and wanting to protect her—it all felt incredibly real and heartbreaking. Genova captures the emotional push and pull of loving someone with bipolar disorder, especially the fragile trust that must be built and rebuilt over time.

The Narration:

I listened to the audiobook, and I can’t recommend it enough. Tessa Albertson’s narration is fantastic—especially the way she speeds up during Maddy’s manic phases, making the experience even more immersive. She truly embodies Maddy’s voice, bringing her journey to life in a way that made the story even more impactful.

Final Thoughts:

More or Less Maddy is an unforgettable read—raw, insightful, and deeply moving. Whether you read it in print or listen to the audiobook, it’s a story that will stay with you long after the final page.

You Might Also Enjoy:

What Does it Feel Like? by Sophie Kinsella