Alison K

Tanya Frank is a likable everymom who finds herself faced with disaster. Her child's sudden illness cannot be healed or even clearly defined. As mothers, we know these possibilities exist, but it's easier to believe they only happen to other people. Frank's memoir is a clear, intelligent narrative of the lengths any of us would go to for our children and the courage to live our own lives despite that struggle.

As the mother of a kid with special needs, I identified with the feeling of my child's life possibilities narrowed overnight by a diagnosis. I also appreciated this memoir's insight into what it means to have a mental break, how some people live with the condition, and the effects of psychotic drugs. Frank's firsthand account really normalized this misunderstood diagnosis and brought to light all of the difficulties brought on by both the illness and the treatment.

Throughout the memoir, we're reminded that Frank is not just Zak's mother, but a person in her own right. Her love of marine mammals gives her a sense of purpose and identity apart from motherhood.

I often get the same feeling at the end of a memoir that there should be more, and Zig-Zag Boy was no exception. I truly hope Tanya Frank and her son find their way to peace.

Despite a slow start with two unlikable characters, I found myself drawn into this book and loving both Tanner and Louise by the end. I liked the way each of their stories unraveled, especially learning the truth about what Louise left behind. I also liked how Tanner grew and came to appreciate her mother more during the journey as well as her new career aspirations.

About the supporting characters, it was a hoot to finally meet George, and I would have loved to hang out with George and Louise in their younger days. The August subplot seemed a little superfluous (was he there to have a 'Brad Pitt' type?), but it was fun anyway.

This book is a good choice for anyone who likes girl-powered comedy road trips and surprise twist endings!