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The Best Minds is a non-fiction book by American author Jonathan Rosen, published in 2023 by Penguin Press. It is both a personal memoir and a broader exploration of mental illness through the life of Rosen's childhood friend, Michael Laudor, whose promising future was altered by schizophrenia and a subsequent tragic event.

Background[edit]

Rosen narrates the story set against the backdrop of their shared childhood in New Rochelle, New York, from the 1970s onwards. The narrative follows both friends from their early academic achievements to their time at Yale University, leading to Laudor's profound struggles with mental illness.

Synopsis[edit]

The book details Michael Laudor's journey from a Yale graduate, celebrated as a genius, to his life post-diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia. After a dramatic psychotic break, Laudor's life takes a dark turn, leading to the fatal stabbing of his girlfriend, a tragedy that anchors the narrative's exploration of mental health and societal failures.

Reception[edit]

The Best Minds was critically acclaimed and named one of the best books of 2023 by publications such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal ^[1]The Atlantic, Slate, and was also listed among Barack Obama’s Favorite Books of 2023. Critics have praised the book for its compassionate handling of sensitive subjects and its deep dive into the complexities of mental health.^[2][3]

References