Author: Jean Jardine Miller
Published by Jardine Miller Publishing
ISBN: 097313764-9

The following review was contributed by: Mary Simmons:  Click Here To Read Mary's Reviews

 In 'Daffodil Dancing,' Jean Jardine Miller delves into the world of someone
living with social phobia, exploring not only how it affects the afflicted
person, but also her friends and family.
Beginning in 1987 and taking us into the present, the author follows the
progression of not only the disease suffered by the character of Alison, but
also the treatment. She examines the devastating effects of being
undiagnosed and the inept attitudes of some health professionals.

As Alison struggles with the daily challenges she faces when trying to cope
with her episodes, she feels as if she has been beaten into submission, to
the point where she finds it extremely difficult to leave her home and deal
with people.

As I read about these struggles, I found myself imagining what it would be
like if my normal stressors and worries took over my life so that I couldn't
escape from them; they would follow me everywhere, threatening to overtake
and overwhelm me at every turn. The threat of a panic attack striking me at
any time would obviously be daunting. This was the world Alison lived in and
I admired her courage in facing her problems and moving forward with her
life one step at a time - even on the days when she could barely make it out
of bed and had to go miles out of her way to buy milk at the convenience
store she was familiar with instead of going into a new store. On the day
when she was able to go to the corner store in her new neighbourhood, I
cheered for her triumph in overcoming this seemingly small obstacle. These
victories are what make her feel normal and no one wants to feel like a
freak or be perceived as one.

By 2001, Alison has discovered cognitive behavioural therapy and is able to
maintain a higher level of control over her nervousness. This therapy
enables her to correct the fearful thought processes that trigger her
anxiety.
Knowing that her maternal grandmother was probably stricken by a similar
illness - although she went undiagnosed her entire life - Alison struggles
with the decision to have children. Once she takes control, she feels
equipped to help any children she may have who exhibit similar behaviour.
She also begins to write children's books geared towards helping them
conquer their fears.

In writing this novel, the author takes on subject matter that is probably
not familiar to the average person and gives it a face and a voice in the
form of Alison. Her characters are highly relatable and well-developed. They
bring to life the many aspects of mental illness. Alison is not crazy; she
has a problem to which she must find a solution in order to better the
quality of her life. While on this journey towards healing, she is helped by
her parents, her friends - particularly her best friend and business
partner, Terri - and the man she marries. As we get to know her as well as
the people in her life, we can take lessons from them on how we should treat
those around us.