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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Something like Normal summary
Trish Doller
Brief summary
Something like Normal by Trish Doller follows Travis, a young Marine returning home from Afghanistan. As he struggles to readjust to civilian life, he grapples with PTSD and finds unexpected solace in an old flame.
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Something like Normal
Summary of key ideas
The Struggle to Reintegrate
In Something like Normal by Trish Doller, we meet Travis, a young Marine who has just returned home from a tour in Afghanistan. He's struggling to reintegrate into civilian life with the weight of his experiences and the loss of his best friend, Charlie, haunting him. His family is also falling apart, with his parents' marriage on the rocks and his younger brother acting out.
Travis finds solace in his old friends, but they don't quite understand the person he has become. He also finds himself unable to connect with his girlfriend, Paige, who has moved on during his absence. As he tries to make sense of his new reality, he grapples with anger, guilt, and the feeling of being left behind.
An Unexpected Reunion
Amidst this turmoil, Travis runs into Harper, a girl he had a crush on in high school. Harper's life hasn't been easy either; her father died in a car accident, and she's been left to take care of her alcoholic mother. Despite their shared history, Travis is hesitant to form a deeper connection, afraid that his PTSD and emotional baggage will be too much for her to handle.
However, Harper's straightforward and no-nonsense attitude intrigues Travis, and they begin spending time together. Through their interactions, Travis starts to open up, sharing his experiences and feelings with someone who doesn't judge him. Harper, in turn, finds solace in Travis' presence, someone who understands her struggles in a way no one else does.
Confronting the Past
As Travis and Harper grow closer, they also confront their past. Travis grapples with the guilt of surviving when Charlie didn't, while Harper deals with her father's death and her mother's neglect. They support each other through their respective traumas, finding comfort in shared vulnerability and understanding.
Travis' relationship with Paige also comes to a head when he realizes that he's been clinging to the past, trying to recapture something that no longer exists. He learns to let go and embrace the changes in his life, including his growing feelings for Harper.
Finding Hope in Each Other
In the end, Something like Normal is a story of healing and hope. Travis and Harper find strength in each other, accepting their pasts and looking towards the future. Travis begins to see a life beyond his PTSD and guilt, while Harper finds the courage to break free from her toxic home environment.
The book ends with Travis making peace with his past and embracing his new reality, with Harper by his side. They both realize that while their lives may never be "normal" again, they can find something like it in each other's company and support.
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What is Something like Normal about?
Something Like Normal by Trish Doller is a gripping novel that delves into the challenges faced by a young marine returning home from war. It explores themes of PTSD, family dynamics, and the struggle to find a sense of normalcy in a world that has been forever changed. With raw emotion and compelling storytelling, this book offers a unique perspective on the realities of war and its aftermath.
Something like Normal Review
Something like Normal (2012) by Trish Doller is a compelling story that delves into the complexities of returning from war and rebuilding a life. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Featuring authentic portrayal of post-war struggles, it offers a deep insight into the challenges faced by veterans, making it a poignant and thought-provoking read.
- The book explores the themes of resilience and healing with honesty and sensitivity, resonating with readers on an emotional level.
- With its engaging narrative and well-developed characters, the story unfolds in a way that keeps readers captivated, ensuring it is far from boring.
Who should read Something like Normal?
Readers who enjoy contemporary young adult fiction
Those interested in stories about military veterans and their struggles with reintegration
People who appreciate character-driven narratives with emotional depth
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Something like Normal FAQs
What is the main message of Something like Normal?
The main message of Something like Normal revolves around finding healing and hope after war.
How long does it take to read Something like Normal?
The estimated reading time for Something like Normal is a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is Something like Normal a good book? Is it worth reading?
A compelling read, Something like Normal offers a poignant exploration of post-war struggles and the journey to rediscover oneself.
Who is the author of Something like Normal?
Trish Doller is the author of Something like Normal.
What to read after Something like Normal?
If you're wondering what to read next after Something like Normal, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright