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Book Review of January First: A Child's Descent into Madness and Her Father's Struggle to Save Her

January First: A Child's Descent into Madness and Her Father's Struggle to Save Her
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Helpful Score: 1


This is the true account of a child tormented by mental illness. It is written with the intensity and emotion that only a parent can feel.

From infancy, Janni had conflicts that other children did not seem to have. She was more connected to her imaginary friends than other children. She was absorbed in a world she called Calalini. As time went on, it became apparent that these were, in fact hallucinations.

Janni's parents, unable to help her, sought counsel and medical advice. Ultimately, they were forced to obtain psychiatric intervention. They needed help, but also answers and a direction to resolving Janni's problems.

January became a hazard to herself and her parents; she also became a serious hazard to her baby brother. They could not allow Janni near him for fear that his crying would send her into a rage. Her many problems were tearing the family apart. However, her parents would not give up on the family, or on January.

At the tender age of six, January was finally diagnosed with Schizophrenia. With this diagnosis, her parents were finally able to begin to understand Janni, and to help her.

This is a very emotionally charged account of mental illness and its effects on a very young child, as well as her family. Both heartbreaking and brave, it is a compelling read.