A Note Of Madness - Tapa blanda

"Much more than a book about depression: it's about brilliance, fear, love and living. That is its achievement and what makes it a hearteningly good read" (Guardian)

"Intense and extremely moving . . . Written with compassion and perception, this is a moving, impressive debut" (Becky Stradwick The Bookseller)

"An exhilarating, emotive and at times exhausting read, which I couldn't put down" (TES)

"A simply, but beautifully written story about a loving family . . . There is enough in the book for all teenagers to engage with, whether they have come into contact with mental illness or not" (Write Away!)

"Suzuma handles the onset of manic depression with real skill and the music dimension with expertise" (Niall MacMonagle The Irish Times)

Life as a student is good for Flynn. As one of the top pianists at the Royal College of Music, he has been put forward for an important concert, the opportunity of a lifetime.But beneath the surface, things are changing. On a good day he feels full of energy and life, but on a bad day being alive is worse than being dead. Sometimes he wants to compose and practise all night, at other times he can't get out of bed. His flatmate Harry tries to understand but is increasingly confused by Flynn's erratic mood swings. His friend Jennah tries to help, but Flynn finds it difficult to be around her as he struggles to control his feelings and behaviour. With the pressure of the forthcoming concert and the growing concern of his family and friends, emotions come to a head. Sometimes things can only get worse before they get better.