Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Manicdotes

By Chris Joseph 

Chris Joseph tells his own life story blighted by mental illness. A local man who became a creative genius despite (or because of) suffering bi-polar disorder. He describes his experiences with candour and dark humour.

I enjoyed reading about someone who has led such a varied and interesting life and the way that he has not allowed physical or mental difficulties to stop him ***

An absorbing narrative of Mr Joseph's early life in a monastery, as a foundry worker and night club bouncer and overcoming a traumatic accident as well as coping with bipolar disorder. His successful career in advertising where his confrontations with major commercial " big boys" are serious yet hilarious. For me he came across as an unsung genius  *****

Mostly amusing, sometimes vaguely annoying, but mainly an enjoyable read ***

I found it a strange but rewarding book making the reader aware of the tragedy of this condition ***

What a personality - so candid. I felt quite upset at times and admire him for being so forthright and taking such a bold stand *****

I found the concluding chapter to be an excellent testament of how to cope with life and it gives an insight into the author's innate moral values ****