January First discussion

http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/1...

I find it interesting the readers who say they "lost sympathy." Serious question. Is that what you are looking for when you read a memoir? I don't know because that is not what I am looking for, nor what I was intending. If sympathy was my goal, I would have written the book much differently. My goal was to tell the truth. I feel like I failed though because it seems like that for some readers, their dislike of me takes away from the more serious issue, which is severe childhood mental illness. My goal was to let you know that this is what life is like for mentally ill children and their families. But if readers were unable to get past their dislike of me then I guess I failed.

Not at all, I absolutely loved this book. I couldn't put it down once I picked it up. I thought this book was just very honest. I think that any parents who can manage with such a momentous task should be admired. I also liked this book because it was ... real. Not sugar coated, not glossed over but really real.

Well, thank you, but "admired" is not a word I would use. not for anyone. Like any parent, you try to do the best you can with what you have. Can I answer any questions for you?

I read this book in one sitting. I could not put it down. I felt so many emotions while reading it. I cried many times as well! It was a very honest book telling the good, the bad, and the ugly in your life.

I loved this book! I love January's parents determination to keep January in her home setting and their strength to fight for her. I give her parents a huge thumbs up! You are my hero.

Michael wrote: "I find it interesting the readers who say they "lost sympathy." Serious question. Is that what you are looking for when you read a memoir? I don't know because that is not what I am looking for, no..."

You did a great job of being honest in your story, even when it made you look like a "bad" guy. I feel that adds to your character but others just might be quick to judge. It was a very good read and I'm truly sorry that you and your family are still facing turmoil with Bodhi!

How old are the children now? How are they?

Don't you think it's quite understandable that Jani would personify (or animalise) numbers, days of the week, and other sequential lists, when you had been teaching her this stuff at a very young age? Especially as she has a sequential-type name herself.

Why do you insist that these imaginary friends are neuropathological "hallucinations" when they are consistent characters for which she has invented names and complex life stories? Would you have said she was "hallucinating" if she'd told you she'd seen Father Christmas or the Tooth Fairy?

Michael Schofield not happy to discuss his book any more?

Perhaps the novelty has worn off now?