Your Preview Verdict: More or Less Maddy by Lisa Genova

Buy a copy of More or Less Maddy here.

Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:

More or Less Maddy is another engaging narrative that Lisa Genova, who is recognised for her emotive and profoundly human storytelling, has delivered. Maddy, a woman whose seemingly perfect world begins to disintegrate as she confronts the reality of identity, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness, is the protagonist of this story, which takes readers on an emotional journey through her life based on her experiences. The narrative of Maddy is a nuanced examination of the “more or less” choices that have a significant impact on her life. She wishes to have more success but less time for her family, and she wishes to have more freedom but less security. A protagonist whose troubles feel real and genuinely authentic is presented by Genova, who does a remarkable job of capturing the tension that many people experience when trying to balance their personal aspirations with the demands of society. One of the things that sets this book different from others is Genova’s ability to weave intricate feelings with painstaking attention to detail. Maddy’s inner tensions and the ripple consequences of her decisions on those she loves are brought to life by the writing, which is both evocative and accurate, so engaging readers in the story. The narrative is given further depth and refinement by the presence of supporting characters who are also rich and multidimensional. Syed, NSW, 5 stars

A fan of Lisa Genova, I was thrilled to be given early access to More or Less Maddy, which lived up to my every expectation! We first meet Maddy as she’s coming to, looking for clues around her to help with where she is, why, and how it happened. It’s confusing, patchy, and distressing – as it would be for Maddy herself. The rest of the book takes us through the 18 months prior to that awakening, and the rollercoaster journey that is a bipolar diagnosis. From deep depression, to flying high with mania, we walk alongside Maddy as she slowly comes to identify, if not understand her condition. We watch as her family battle to accept, sympathise and support her condition – and what her life might look like from this point forward. As with all of Lisa Genova’s books, she provides an accurate and insightful description of the significant mental health condition that is bipolar. She shares with us the impact on the individual, and the serious challenges for the families that care for them. Compelling and fast-paced, with complex characters and scientific explanations. I polished it off in 24 hours. 110% recommended, whether you’ve read Genova in the past or not. Kylie, SA, 5 stars

More or Less Maddy by Lisa Genova is an emotional journey into mental health. She crafts a story around something that is often misunderstood. What an incredible storyteller she is. Maddy Banks is just a normal girl until she hits University where her life comes crashing down around her. Trying to work out life away from home, life without her boyfriend and trying to exist at University Maddy begins to unravel. From Maddys’ journey we see how life can change in an instant and how big of an impact mental health can have on not only the person but also on all those around you. Lisa has taken a subject and created a wonderful story around it that is a pleasure to read. While you enjoy the story you also get to understand a little more about mental health and the signs that usually get ignored. The research that went into creating this book is amazing. You feel the whole depth of it all. I feel this book would be a good read for those about to leave high school. Ann-Marie, SA, 5 stars

More or Less Maddy by Lisa Genova is an insightful novel that invites the reader to empathetically weather life’s ebbs and flows along with its protagonist, Maddy Banks. Being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, after a spiralling episode at her family home during Thanksgiving, Maddy, who is a student at NYU, desperately tries to make sense of how her complicated diagnosis fits into her life, identity and her future plans, whilst grappling with family dynamics and societal expectations. Genova masterfully delineates her narrative into seasonal divisions to mirror the changing seasons of Maddy’s life, as each chapter propels the captivating pace of the plot forward. I would recommend this book from the bestselling author of Still Alice, to anybody who enjoys reading compassionate stories with a profound voice. Maria, NSW, 5 stars

More or Less Maddy is a meticulously researched and well crafted novel. It actually felt more like wearing a VR headset and walking around inside the life of someone living with bipolar disorder. The work that Lisa Genova is doing to give society a look into an individual’s lived experience in such a captivating and accessible way, through excellent storytelling and a richly developed main character is profound. We don’t know what we don’t know and Genova’s medical expertise combined with her talent for writing about challenging experiences allows the reader to feel the gamut of emotions that Maddy and her family experience throughout the narrative. I’ll be recommending this book to everyone I know and singing praises for this method to inform and educate the many on the struggles and suffering of the few – I can’t say enough about the way this writing helps us readers be more compassionate and understanding members of our human family. Debby, WA, 5 stars

Wow! Whilst I do not have lived experience of Bipolar, I have friends who do and I have mental health support training. Genova has done an exceptional job of writing Maddy’s experience of her lows and highs, and then how the drug trials occur. Bipolar is not an easy ‘fix’ – the medications are introduced and tweaked to get the right dosage. This takes time – possibly longer than the timeframe in this novel. Thanks for bringing this silent illness to the fore – one can certainly learn a lot about Bipolar by reading this novel. Let’s hope the shame and stigma lessens with more awareness. As for Taylor Swift, I’ll be forever thinking of Maddy whenever I come across Taylor. Kaytee, NSW, 5 stars

More or Less Maddy by Lisa Genova is a deeply insightful book that takes us into the world of a newly diagnosed bipolar, young woman, Maddy. We go through the highs and lows as Maddy adjusts to her new life and makes the changes necessary to survive in her new world. This book gives us insight and understanding of the challenges of a bipolar diagnosis. Gai, NSW, 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book and found it extremely enlightening and insightful in portraying bipolar disorder. Lisa Genova is indeed very talented as she bought to life Maddy and her family and friends, in a gritty and raw read. I couldn’t stop turning the pages. The characters felt so real, and I felt every part of Maddy’s depression and struggle to survive just 24 hours. Equally I rode the wild ride of mania and felt deep compassion for Maddy and her family as they all struggled in their own different ways to cope with this new harsh reality. Lisa bought to life living with a mental illness and how it affects people in a very real way. This is a book I would highly recommend for anyone affected by mental illness and also for those who are not as it offers a glimpse of the struggles some people have in life. It also offers hope and a future that is maybe different to what was planned but, also hope to live a productive and as normal life as possible within some new boundaries. A wonderful Book! Bridget, QLD, 5 stars

Lisa Geneva’s books are an automatic read for me and More or Less Maddy is no exception. She has an amazing way of putting the reader in the head of someone going through something really difficult in their life. Her research into mental illness is exemplary. If you haven’t picked up a Lisa Genova novel yet it’s time you did. Trudy, SA, 5 stars

I loved this book! It explores the complexity of mental illness in an eye opening, accessible way. Maddy, a uni student at NYU, is diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and the story follows her ups and downs as she grapples with her reality. It’s moving, heartbreaking and beautifully written. Viktoria, WA, 5 stars

More or Less Maddy is the poignant story of a woman with bipolar. Not having experience in this area, I am relying on Lisa’s text for accuracy of the portrayal. It did seem all too real and we get a very vivid picture of what’s going on in Maddy’s head with her manic episodes. Maddy copes with a break-up and has aspirations to break into stand up comedy. How her more ‘normal’ family deals with her condition is an important part of the story. I felt it dealt realistically with the concerns of a family who wants to protect their loved one but can go too far – suffocating her individualism and trying to project an image of what they think is acceptable onto her, convincing themselves they’re doing the best for her when it’s about making themselves feel safe. It’s a thought-provoking story of disability and the comedy world aspect was very clever in forcing us to see a world where Maddy had to take risks and her family had to accept that was okay, and she could blossom. It reminded me of The Marvellous Mrs Maisel. Rebecca, NSW, 5 stars

One word describes this beautiful book “Poignant”. From all the characters perspective. Maddy misses the person she was before her diagnosis, Amy misses the daughter she remembers and Emily her sister. Their journey tugs at the heart strings, the ups and downs. Not only do you feel compassion for Maddy but also for Amy as she struggles as a mother to hold onto her daughter. Gramma brings a different aspect, more accepting of the situation and her wish that “life didn’t deal you this hand” brought me to tears. Thank you Lisa Genova for the insight into a condition that we know so little about. Carol, SA, 5 stars

An excellent book that writes about bipolar in a well-considered, informative and beautiful way. Wow. What an utterly brilliant book. I must confess, I’ve never read anything by Lisa Genova but I’ve hard of Still Alice. I wasn’t sure what to expect of this book – and have to thank an ARC for why I’ve picked this book for. I’m so glad I did get an ARC, because this book is an excellent read. What makes it so good? 1. It talks about bipolar in an empathetic, informative and considered way. It addresses myths, misconceptions and personalises it through a character that is accessible and seemingly ‘normal’ (young woman from a privileged background) 2. The writing draws you in because it uses plain, sharp, succinct and accessible language that essentially humanises the condition, Maddy, her family and her experiences 3. The plot is driven by time and movements in Maddy’s life and diagnosis. The ‘time jumps’ allows you to move forward with Maddy without the book being stuck on a strict day to day timeframe. This book blew me away – reading it gives me greater understanding and awareness of bipolar, and the impact on those with the diagnosis and their friends and family. This is an incredibly important and well-written book, and should be at the top of your list of books to read and recommend in 2025. The last chapter felt a little rushed/quick wrap up – if this felt less tick tick tick (wrapping up everything) and told over a few, drawn out characters this would’ve been a 5 star book. Now to add the rest of Genova’s books to my ‘to read’ list. Kathleen, ACT, 5 stars

As a huge fan of ‘Still Alice’ I couldn’t wait to jump into ‘More or Less Maddy’ but to be honest it took me some time to connect with this book and the main character Maddy. Once in though, I rode the manic highs and crushing lows with Maddy. Lisa Genova takes us on an honestly stark journey of a young woman’s confronting and upsetting reality of being diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Highly recommend! Rachel, VIC, 5 stars

This was a book that I would not normally read but am so glad that I did. I found this to be a very enjoyable read getting carried along with the main character – it was very enlightening to be inside Maddy’s head. My wife has been a long-term mental health nurse and from my discussions with her the storyline rings true. The emotional up and downs, the overbearing mother, the treatment medication prescribed were all authentic. The realism and the fact that the main character suffers from bipolar disorder all adds to an enthralling educative read. Lisa Genova has written a book that is a great presentation of the practicalities of someone living with a mental health issue, it is well crafted, carefully and sympathetically insightful. I rate this book 5 stars and thoroughly recommend it. Grahame, NSW, 5 stars

Wow. This was such an emotional journey of family, mental health and personal development. This is a very heavy book that discusses mental health (bipolar disorder), substance abuse, manic episodes, self harm and suicidal thoughts and attempts. This wasn’t just a book, this was an experience. Tiahne, QLD, 5 stars

More or Less Maddy is a profoundly beautiful, heart wrenching book that leads the reader on a roller coaster ride of emotions. Written with, empathy, understanding and sensitivity we are introduced to Maddy a student at NYU, who has always struggled to “fit in”, and through a set of circumstances is diagnosed as Bipolar. We join Maddy and her family as they struggle through this new journey in life, coping with medication side effects, isolation, denial, relapse and finally hope! One of the last lines of the book is “She’s a comedian who has bipolar disorder living a full but not normal life…” This perfectly describes what Maddy has achieved! An absolutely brilliant read, eliminating any stigma that is so often associated with a mental illness/ disorder. Highly recommend everyone to read this latest book by Lisa Genova. Ilona, VIC, 5 stars

If you have read any of Lisa Genova’s books then this one will be of interest. Mental health issues are often misunderstood and this book is an example of that. Maddy Banks is a young university student who often feels a misfit because of her behavior. With a bipolar diagnosis Maddy begins to realize, over time, that she needs to manage her medication and try to strive for what she wants out of life. This book kept me intrigued throughout. Lorraine, VIC, 5 stars

More or Less Maddy, Lisa Genova’s new novel is exquisite. So beautifully written, she expertly lifts the veil on a mental disorder not commonly spoken about. It was unexpectedly educational and authentic in its telling. Being taken into Maddy’s world where she battles with denial versus stark reality after a diagnosis of Bipolar disorder was raw and incredibly moving. Maddy’s story felt heartbreakingly real and the impact on her family, friends and even strangers was stunningly explored in all its harsh realities. I was cheering hard for Maddy from the very start despite her diagnosis and the disorder pushing her and her relationships (particularly with her mother) to the brink. The exceptional level of writing allowed the reader feelings and understanding from all points of view (even those that may have felt unforgiving or cruel). I hope this important work contributes to shifting the needle on the unfortunate stigma that still surrounds some disorders like Bipolar. Lisa Genova writes with such compassion and thoughtfulness and leaves you feeling hopeful after the turn of the last page. Jill, VIC, 5 stars

‘’More or Less Maddy’’ as the name suggests, follows Maddy through her journey from the first initial signs through to her bipolar diagnosis. This novel took me on such an emotional roller coaster, each time she would spiral into mania I felt like I was right there with her going through the highs and lows but at the same time I wanted to jump into the pages and help her. There were certain moments and interactions Maddy would have with her sister and mother I found so similar to my own family it was almost laughable. You can see that Maddy needs her independence but with her bipolar diagnosis she also needs to be monitored. Reading through each struggle and every barrier put in her way honestly almost brought me to tears every time. However, this only made the ending so much sweeter. Filled with lovable characters, relatable life moments and a heartfelt message ‘’You are worthy’’. To the author, Lisa, I have one word. Thankyou. For bringing what is usually a hushed and secretive diagnosis to light and making it more acceptable to talk about it. Samantha Carruthers, VIC, 5 stars

Mental illness – a difficult topic to write about, even harder to get right. It makes people uncomfortable, ergo they tend to shy away from it. I was apprehensive given the premise, but this novel tackles the subject of bipolar head on with sensitivity, realism and humour. It was compelling watching the family dynamics as they coped with Maddy’s diagnosis, and scary seeing how easily a person can go from moments of absolute clarity, kicking goals in all areas of life, to becoming so OCD and obsessed that they slip into the manic, outrageous behaviour that came to define Maddy. This story was absolutely fascinating and I just wanted to keep on reading. References to Taylor Swift throughout were on point and current- a fan morphing into a stalker overnight given their mindset-sometimes just one sentence in a song makes people believe the artist is communicating something special just for them. As for comedy being the catalyst to help Maddy cope- it is amazing how many comics are, in reality, quite depressed. The book was unputdownable for me and I loved it. Well done! Kathy, VIC, 5 stars

Thank you for a very interesting read. It gave me a better understanding of life with bipolar.it was sad but showed you can deal with life if you have family support Sharon, NSW, 5 stars

Maddy has a lot happening going off to College and she has just broken up with her boyfriend. It should be such a fun time living away from home and enjoying all what College life has to offer but everything just seems to take so much effort some days she just can’t get out of bed. This all escalates and eventually Maddy is diagnosed with BiPolar. I found this an easy read the storyline flowed really well. Having a very dear friend with BiPolar the maniac episodes were so accurate with what I have witnessed. I wouldn’t say an enjoyable read some might find parts a bit confronting but Lisa Genova has given an insight into how someone suffering BiPolar has to navigate life and the effects on all those around that person. Leigh, WA, 4 stars

I wasn’t sure what to expect when this book arrived. It isn’t my usual genre and not having read this Author’s previous book I wasn’t sure if I would like it. I was however presently surprised. It was written with a depth and warmth that captured me. It definitely brought to light the struggles that living with a mental illness can have on an individual and all those around them. At times I had to book this down and take a break as it was a little emotional but it also gave me a more understanding of the character Maddy and her story she was telling of her everyday battles and how she copes. All in all a book I would recommend. Christine, QLD, 4 stars

Lisa Genova really knows how to give the reader an insight into the complexities of an illness. Through this sometimes confronting story of a young person going through a life altering diagnosis of bipolar disorder, we experience the lows and highs with Maddy. However there is a sensitivity in the writing that made me feel empathy to both Maddy and her loving family as they come to terms with this mental illness. There is no judgement in the writing of the decisions made with treatment, Maddy trying to find her own route into adulthood, nor the reactions of her mother and siblings. This was a tough read, confronting and felt realistic even though the setting was in and around New York and Maddy’s family a privileged one. I offer a spoiler to encourage the reader and that is that there is a hopeful and positive ending. Mental illness can be managed and can also guide a person into a life of their choosing. Catherine, QLD, 4 stars

Lisa Genova takes us on a roller coaster ride that is Maddy’s life – a 20 year old living with bipolar disorder. You will learn how difficult life is for everyone living with and along side bipolar. The depression, suicidal ideations and manic episodes. What an eye opener. This book has given me an a new awareness. Eleanor, WA, 4 stars

I’m a big fan of Lisa Genova and have read all her books. She is a neuroscientist and writes about brain conditions with immense insight and respect. This story centres around Maddy and her life after receiving a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Maddy is a fabulous character and we are on that rollercoaster of huge emotions with her. It dives into the complexities and layers of living with bipolar for both Maddy and those around her who are trying to support and understand her. I think my fave part of this story was the way it highlights that precarious balance families experience. Of wanting to protect and ensure their loved one’s safety, whilst also allowing and encouraging them to thrive, not just survive. I love the way fiction can educate, challenge preconceived notions and develop empathy. Definitely add this to your 2025 reading list! Tammy, SA, 4 stars

I am a big fan of Lisa Genova, I have read most of her books and really like her writing. Each book covers a different neurological disorder, they really put you in the persons shoes so you can see how they are affected through their eyes. At the end of each book I always feel like a have a much better understanding of the chosen topic for that book. After reading this book I have a new understanding and empathy for people living with Bi-Polar, it is no different to being diagnosed with any illness, it is just that this one has a stigma that you also have to deal with and often be judged by others rather than cared for. I loved reading the acknowledgments and seeing the extraordinary lengths that Lisa went to researching this book, was impressed that she even attending a comedy writing workshop and actually did a 5 minute set. Thanks so much Lisa for enlightening us on these sometimes difficult topics that are unfortunately all around us, I Highly recommend this and other Lisa Genova books. Linda, VIC, 4 stars

Maddy Banks, a freshman at NYU, seems to be living a ‘normal’ college life until things start to spiral. In ‘More or Less Maddy’ Lisa Genova explores the impacts of a diagnosis of bipolar disorder on a young person as well as her friends and family, and does so in an empathetic and understandable way. In this novel, we not only see how Maddy’s behaviour changes through this mental health challenge, but we get an insight into her thoughts and feelings. How does someone balance what they love doing without fixating and spiralling into a manic episode? How does a young person try and maintain their mental health while dealing with side effects from medication, relationships, and wanting to fit in with others their own age who can drink, stay up late, and pursue interests freely? This novel has shed some much-needed light on bipolar disorder and is clearly well researched and beautifully written. Whether the reader knows someone with bipolar, has experienced it themselves, or has no experience in it, this novel is accessible to everyone and explains the complexities of this diagnosis clearly and with heart. Melinda, SA, 4 stars

More or Less Maddy by Lisa Genova is a intriguing story revolving around Maddy, a young Freshman student at NYU who’s the black sheep of her family. While the rest of her family fit the perfect Connecticut lifestyle she struggles to fit into that mould. She also struggles to fit in at school and pass her subjects until she decides to go to the Student Health Centre where she’s given a prescription for an antidepressant and an extension to complete her studies. She’s soon flying through her subjects and life becomes good, unfortunately this is the prelude to her first manic episode which ultimately leads to a bipolar diagnosis and a complete change in her and her families lives as they know it. Lisa Genova (who is also a neuroscientist) has given a well written, fast paced story that gives an insight into a life with someone with a Bipolar diagnosis. I enjoyed Maddy’s perspective expressed through stand up comedy and how she has Bipolar, she’s not Bipolar. Jody, SA, 4 stars

I have always been a fan of Lisa’s books and this one did not disappoint. Lisa weaves different disabilities and disorders into her stories in a way that helps you understand the impacts but also takes you along on the character’s journeys and how it is different for everyone. In More or Less Maddy she does this in a very impactful way as Maddy tries to come to terms with her diagnosis and the missteps and experiences she has along the way as well as how it affects her family and those around her including the decisions they share in or impart in order to keep Maddy safe. As you get deeper into the book you become so invested in Maddy and her choices and share in her disappointments and triumphs. It is one of those stories that doesn’t leave you when you reach the end but lingers in your thoughts for days and even weeks to come. Another great novel to add to your to-read pile. Tracy, WA, 4 stars

More or Less Maddy by Lisa Genova is a complex, heart wrenching tale following the life of protagonist, Maddy and her experience with bipolar disorder. From the first page, the reader is transported into Maddy’s everyday life and her struggles with her mental health. Genova portrays Maddy’s bipolar disorder with precision and rawness, providing descriptions of experiences that were realistic and hard to read at times. Maddy’s erratic decisions throughout the novel, which either led to excellent highs or depressive lows, allowed the reader to go along for the ride and empathise with Maddy and her struggles. Maddy is portrayed authentically and it is clear the amount of research that went into this piece of fiction. A highlight of the novel were the relationships which developed between Maddy and her family and friends. Due to her challenges, Maddy had difficulty maintaining positive relationships in her life. Her key relationships with her mother and sister were complex, signified by unconditional love but struggling to come to terms with her diagnosis. Hannah tries her hardest to be a support for Maddy, but ultimately this takes a toll on her own mental health and her life. By the conclusion of the novel, despite the hardships the relationships face, it is heartwarming to witness Maddy’s mother and Hannah begin to accept Maddy and her passion for comedy, despite their concerns it would become a phase which would spiral. Genova’s novel is an unforgettable read about mental illness, providing a first hand account of the complexities of bipolar disorder and the impact it can have on those diagnosed, their loved ones and their life and experiences within. Laura, TAS, 4 stars

I have been a huge fan of Lisa Genova so was very excited to preview her latest novel, based on a young woman Maddy who is diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The narrative was so well researched and written in a way that really took me on Maddy’s journey through her lows and highs. I feel like a lot of people will be able to relate to this story, and I think it’s high time that mental health illnesses are taken out of the taboo realm. Alexandra, TAS, 3 stars

More or Less Maddy by Lisa Genova is a confronting novel about mental illness. It was eye opening on the disorder of bipolar, creating education and awareness for readers not fully aware of this mental illness. Christine, WA, 3 stars

Lisa Genova has once again created a compelling, page-turning story that both engages readers and smashes health and medical-related stereotypes. Using language that is accessible and contemporary, we read about Maddy Banks, who, on the surface is a typical college student, dealing with all the various life pressures that confront her – studies, exams, living away from home, work, friendships and relationships. The reality though, sees her spiralling between extreme waves of deep depressions and manic highs. One particular episode results in her being admitted to a psychiatric hospital and diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The range of complications of learning to live with this illness, and the impact it has on her and those around her, cannot be understated. Genova’s attention to detail, especially the well-drawn characters, their interactions and dialogue, highlight the constant, genuine struggles that Maddy faces, without being didactic. While reading, I was taken on the high-and-low rides of mania and depression, experiencing a small semblance of Maddy’s chaotic life, and that of the family and friends supporting her. Maddy’s foray into comedy often brings reading relief – and we laugh and cheer her on. Readers will be moved by this mental health awareness-raising, empathy-building and hope-filled story. Alida, VIC, 3 stars

This is not a feel-good book. But feeling good can be dangerous, especially when it spirals into full blown mania. In a word, Maddy’s journey with bipolar is harrowing, and Lisa Genova makes sure the reader experiences the lowest of lows and the wildest, unhinged highs. This book is not a relaxing holiday read; it will have you on the edge of your seat or cowering under a blanket on the sofa. And just to prove that laughter is the best medicine, the insight into the comedy scene prevents the reader from sliding into a deep depression. This book provides an immersive, uncomfortable, disturbing insight into bipolar disorder and its social stigma, which will leave a long-lasting impression on all who read it. Michelle, VIC, 3 stars

Buy a copy of More or Less Maddy here.