I was eager to read this book because of my own experience with Pure-O OCD. For those who don’t know, Pure-O OCD is a lesser-known form of OCD that “has fewer observable compulsions, compared to those commonly seen with the typical form of OCD (checking, counting, hand-washing, etc.)” It was very obvious that Tamara Ireland Stone did a lot of research and took her time interviewing the teen who inspired her interest in this topic. Sam’s intrusive thought spirals and panic attacks felt very real, and her therapist sounded authentic.
Ever since kindergarten, Samantha has been a part of a clique called the “Crazy Eights.” Even though she finds herself drifting from the group, and despite the fact that her therapist has recommended that she work on finding new, less “toxic” friends, Samantha feels stuck. She is too afraid that parting with the clique will leave her without any friends and also make her a target of their bullying and gossip (like another girl who previously left the group). Because of her OCD, Samantha lives in constant fear not only of her intrusive thoughts and panic attacks, but also that people will find out how “crazy” she is. When Samantha meets a girl named Caroline, who offers to show her something that will “change her life,” she actually goes for it. She follows Caroline, discovers a secret poetry club, and starts to make new friends. Writing poetry helps her to work through her feelings, and making new friends helps to boost her confidence… But will it be enough for Samantha to finally accept and just be herself?