Customer Reviews

You Don't Know Crazy

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

"You Don't Know Crazy" is an insider's view of the many obstacles faced by those affected by bipolar disorder. Author Wambui Bahati invites you into her world with a no holds barred look at the life and times that created the person she is today. Born John Ann Washington, second eldest of four siblings, she had a proud, hard-working mother, and writer, lyricist father that loved her the only way they knew how. Growing up in the time of segregation, there were hardships that many today can only imagine, yet John Ann held her head high to rise above it all. She moved to New York, attended NYU and studied acting thanks to the new Minority Act providing her with full tuition. Even with her dream in reach, all the highs and lows of life kept coming at her. Her first "relationship" was unknowingly with a married man, a "non-stranger" raped her, and when it all became too much she fled to California...not because she knew someone there, but because she had lost herself. She had only just begun writing her life and yet depression, as she was originally misdiagnosed with, was dragging her done. Regaining her footing, she ventured forward on her chosen path to the destiny she designed. The road map of her life became littered with hospital stays, abusive spouses, and general hard times. Love brought her a second chance at marriage and two wonderful daughters, but this too was short lived between his family's interference and their growing apart. She was finally alone...not in the wanted sense, but in the reality of the word. A diagnosis of bipolar disorder at the age of 40 brought about a turning point on which she was able to rebuild her life and achieve those dreams that had crashed and burned long ago.

This is a story of the ups, downs, ins and outs that many have to face in the world today, along with the added stigma of being labeled "mental" due to bipolar disorder. Labels are for things, not people. Wambui Bahati brings to light the harder aspects of her life so that those in similar situations today may have a voice and see a light at the end of their tunnel; a light of acceptance and hope rather than the end of the road. A truly inspirational life story about a remarkable woman as well as an informative guide for aiding ones own self or loved ones with bipolar disorder, I'd highly recommend this book.

Length:: 2:10 Mins

This is a video reader review for "You Don't Know Crazy" by Wambui Bahati. Enjoy!

You Don't Know Crazy

In her book "You Don't Know Crazy' Wambui Bahati allows us to enter her world - the world of bi-polar mood disorder. Raised in a time of racial turmoil, Bahiti overcame obstacles all throughout her life. Her courage and determination to overcome her personal mental illness, at first misdiagnosed, shows readers ways to overcome their personal trials.

Throughout the book there are many places that are extremely funny, others are absolutely heart wrenching. I laughed aloud and cried silent tears as I accompanied Wambui Bahati on her personal journey from fame to devastation. This brilliant woman gives hope to those in despair. I highly recommend this book to anyone, as it sheds light on those that suffer from this misunderstood illness.

I have to admit that I had never heard of this person prior to reading her book. However, through her story "You don't Know Crazy" I have come to admire Wambui Bahati.

Bahati suffers from mental illness and although this is one of the cornerstones of her book, she uses as a stepping board to inspire and show the world that even though you suffer from mental illness, you CAN reclaim your life.

Bahati had a terrific life to the outside world, she even appeared in shows, however, what the world did not see is a woman quickly spiralling downwards. She lost it all - left with only two options, she chose to live.

This book is written in an honest and often extremely funny way. The author obviously chooses to express herself through humour and this was quite inspiring. She retells her story and as she describes the hell that she went through, I could actually feel myself in her shoes - living it in my own head and heart.

I like the positive message this book sends out and I really like Bahati's take on life. She also included, in the book, some wonderful natural remedies and lifestyle changes that have helped her and actually could benefit us all.

This was an excellent read.

All too often mental illness is viewed as a stigma in our society, something to be swept under the rug or discussed in dark corners-not something to be accepted as feely as we do the common cold. Yet mental illness is just as avoidable and just as treatable, and "You Don't Know Crazy" provides a frank look at aspects of mental illness that people have been avoiding for years.

Author Wambui Bahiti is well known for her frank, open look at the years she spent suffering from mental illness, and she uses the knowledge and insight she gained to reach out not only to people suffering from Bipolar disorder but also to those suffering from depression, mania and any other disorder that negatively affects their daily life. Her story is heartwarming, and readers will find comfort in following her through her trials and the strength that she eventually discovered through family, friends and the professionals that refused to let her give up.

What readers will find the most helpful, however, are the simple and practical lifestyle changes and natural remedies Bahiti suggests for overcoming dependency on narcotics to live a normal life and instead take back control of their own futures. Mental illness is frightening, and all too often sufferers feel as though they are alone in their trials. With "You Don't Know Crazy" readers will walk away feeling as though they've been given something very precious-the knowledge that they are not alone and the strength to take back control of their lives.

"You Don't Know Crazy" by Wambui Bahati is an amazing book about a woman's struggle with bipolar depression. Her story is amazing because unlike many victims of this disease she found a way to turn her life around and make the most of her situation. By writing this book, she is also helping many other people work through their own personal struggles by giving them hope. Her story is inspirational and should be read by every person who either suffers from a mental disorder or loves someone in this situation.

"You Don't Know Crazy" by Wambui Bahati is a very inspirational story about a woman who battles with mental illness. The author takes the reader along on her journey through the symptoms, diagnosis, and learning to live again. She is an amazing woman who has overcome her bipolar disorder and now leads a productive life. Through her words, others in similar situations can see that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I would recommend this book to any individual who is interested in bipolar disorders or currently suffering with one.

Wambui Bahati is a daughter, mother, actor, singer, dancer, motivational speaker and now an author. Her life is a testament to courage and the human spirit. I applaud her for putting herself "out there" to share her story...a story mixed with personal triumphs, painful loss,and love of family while living with mental illness. Wambui takes us through her journey while adding snapshots of the historical climate for those born African American. I highly recommend her book and a must-read for mental health professionals. Wambui is truly an inspiration!

This is a very special story that needed to be told. It was not only written, but it was done in an extremely interesting way. If I could have given a higher rating then a five, this book would have received one.

This is an autobiography about a women who was diagnosed as having bipolar disorder. She leads us through the anguish that comes with mental illness. The bouts of uncontrollable laughter, the fits of crying, the unrestrained rage and the devastating moments of depression. The books starts with her childhood, where we meet her parents and see how they cope with segregation and racism. From there we follow her into a marriage with an abusive husband. Her second marriage to Tony turned out to be much better. They have two children together, Marie and Julie who become an integral part of the story.
As you read you will find yourself running through a gamut of emotions and you will certainly find yourself rooting for this very special women.