Catch a Falling Star

This compelling novel explores the fragile boundary between teenage ambition and mental health crisis through the eyes of Jamie, a fifteen-year-old whose world revolves around his school's musical production. While his crush Frankie lands the lead role of Princess Fiona, Jamie finds himself cast as the donkey—a part that initially delights him but soon becomes overshadowed by his unraveling mental state. The narrative powerfully captures how Jamie's insomnia and racing thoughts begin to distort his reality, even as he navigates the typical pressures of adolescence and first love.

What makes this story particularly impactful is its authentic portrayal of early psychosis developing against the backdrop of high school theater culture. The contrast between Jamie's external pursuit of stardom and his internal descent creates a tension that will resonate deeply with readers who've experienced anxiety or watched friends struggle with mental health. Merriman handles this sensitive subject with both honesty and compassion, crafting a story that illuminates how mental illness can manifest in young adults while never losing sight of the person behind the symptoms.