In Binnie Kirshenbaum’s novel, we are introduced to Bunny, a narrator grappling with clinical depression, offering readers a raw and intimate look into the mind of someone on the edge. This narrative pulls no punches, plunging us into the experiences of a person struggling immensely with their mental health, culminating in a breakdown during a dinner party and subsequent stay in a psychiatric facility. Here, Bunny finds herself among others she wryly refers to as “loons.”
Despite the heavy subject matter, the book is far from bleak. Bunny’s voice is infused with a dark, cynical humor and sharp wit that many readers will find surprisingly engaging. Her snarky observations and brutally honest assessments of herself and the world around her are delivered with a comedic timing that, while perhaps not for everyone, resonates deeply with those who appreciate a dry and dark sense of humor. Bunny herself acknowledges her difficult nature, stating, “Generally speaking, I’m a headache of a person who is not easy to like.” This self-awareness, however, doesn’t soften her edges, and she readily admits that making and keeping friends is a significant challenge. Her husband, Albie, stands as a testament to enduring love, patiently navigating Bunny’s turbulent emotional landscape, though even his unwavering support often falls short of lifting her spirits.