Originally I picked this book up because of a group read in my state where Mr. Earley will be giving a presentation (July 28th in Baton Rouge). I have a family member who was diagnosed bipolar and most recently a friend who was diagnosed with the same issue. This book was an eye opener for me. I know how difficult it can be to deal with those in our family who have problems, but I never truly thought about how they were treated outside of the family. The conditions for those with mental disorders are horrendous. Even those who are leading a "normal" life still have a difficult time. The presentation of information in Mr. Earley's book is given in a way that shows respect not only for those fighting for rights for the mentally ill, but the mentally ill themselves. I believe this is a must read for anyone dealing daily with mentally ill individuals.