Many memoirs of bipolar disorder are either horrific and terrifying (Hornbacher's Madness, Eron's What Goes Up), or intimidating records of their subjects' spectacular accomplishments (Redfield's An Unquiet Mind). Wild's story is, ironically, more normal. He clearly had his ups and downs, made some bad decisions, and damaged his career and many relationships, but what comes through is a story about a generally nice guy who valued friendships and gradually discovered ways to minimize the adverse impacts of bipolar mood swings.

Non-bipolar loved ones will not find a lot here to help them learn how to cope, but there is some useful material, and the low intensity, positive approach may be reassuring.