How to Lose Yourself Completely

How to Lose Yourself Completely is a stunningly powerful and poignant book, tackling the sensitive themes of grief , mental health, compassion and addictions. This second person narrative is the dramatic and dangerous journey, both physically and emotionally, of Case, who is undertaking 'Adventure Therapy' in a desperate but disbelieving attempt to overcome the overwhelming anxiety and reliance on medication that consumes his life, following the death of his older brother.

With his brother's ex-girlfriend on the same trip and other peers battling their own inner demons alongside him, Case embarks on what will be an unforgettable battle for survival of mind, spirit and body. The group are tested in ways that they never inmagined and the story becomes a testament to human nature, bonds forged in trauma and terror, and how hope and dogged determination can carry you through even the darkest moments.

I was gripped by this book; the energy and pace is relentless and breathtaking. It is fraught with emotion and tenderness, with tension-breaking moments of adolescent arguments and banter. Case's relationship with his brother's ex girlfriend, Diane, is so sensitively and movingly documented and the growing understanding of the group's members of each other's struggles and triggers, is genuinely touching and thought-provoking. A brilliant story that will have a huge impact on the reader.

352 pages / Reviewed by Jenny Caddick, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 11+

What an absolutely fabulous read! If you happen to be a KS3 teacher, or the parent of a young person of KS3 age, then this book is certainly one worth recommending. Peter Bognanni's How to Lose Yourself Completely is a hard-hitting story brilliantly interwoven with a wilderness survival story; it combines raw emotion, sharp wit, and risk, into an unforgettable coming-of-age journey.

A compelling, fast-paced read that kept me wanting to know, 'what's next?', How to Lose Yourself Completely is the poignant story of Case, a young boy grappling with grief and anxiety who is sent on a wilderness "adventure therapy" camping trip, where he meets a group of friends who will change his life forever.

Written entirely in the second person, the story feels almost personal, if not a little disorientating. Reading a story from this point of view takes some getting used to; however, it does not distract from this superb read one bit. This "you" perspective is rare in children's or young adult fiction, which therefore makes this book not just a thrilling read but also a great teaching aid for the classroom too. Case's story also provides a creative vehicle for topics such as grief, loss, mental health, anxiety, PTSD and depression, and while the themes and events are dark, the tone is consistently empathetic and hopeful. ****Caution is advised with readers who may also be experiencing difficulties in their own mental health.****

The story is character-driven and well-paced, with a perfect balance of reflection and development of the characters and the high-stake plot that challenge them and provides just the right amount of suspense for the reader.

How to Lose Yourself Completely is a beautifully written, deeply empathetic YA novel that merges survival odds with emotional truth. It is perfect for those who appreciate character-driven stories about grief, anxiety, and the real power of friendship and understanding.

I would recommend this to absolutely everyone, particularly those hoping to gain a better understanding of people who struggle with mental health.

352 pages / Reviewed by Sam, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 14+