10 Things I Can See From Here by Carrie Mac is a poignant and deeply moving contemporary novel that explores the intricacies of living with anxiety while navigating relationships, family dynamics, and self-discovery. The story centers around Maeve, a teenager whose life is dominated by intense anxiety. Her relentless inner monologue—filled with worries, worst-case scenarios, and fears—creates a vivid portrait of what it feels like to live with an anxiety disorder. The novel provides an empathetic and unflinching look at mental health, making Maeve's journey both relatable and enlightening for readers.
One of the central themes of the novel is the struggle of living with anxiety and the impact it has on Maeve’s perception of the world and her interactions with others. Through Maeve’s perspective, Carrie Mac offers a raw and authentic portrayal of anxiety as an overwhelming force that shapes every aspect of her life. Maeve’s fears are often irrational, but they are presented in a way that makes them feel real and immediate, allowing readers to step into her mindset. The narrative demonstrates how anxiety can isolate individuals, as Maeve frequently battles feelings of inadequacy and helplessness, even when surrounded by loved ones.
The novel also delves into the theme of resilience. Despite her struggles, Maeve constantly pushes herself to face her fears, whether it’s navigating her relationship with her distant father, supporting her stepmother through a pregnancy, or forming a meaningful connection with Salix, a confident and free-spirited girl who becomes Maeve’s love interest. Maeve’s relationship with Salix is a bright and hopeful aspect of the story, providing a counterbalance to the darker moments of her anxiety. Through Salix, Maeve begins to see the possibility of living a life not entirely dictated by her fears. This romance is refreshingly honest and heartfelt, celebrating queer love in a way that feels natural and integral to the story rather than a token inclusion.
Family dynamics play a significant role in the novel as well. Maeve's father is largely absent and unreliable, leaving her to navigate her feelings of abandonment and frustration. Meanwhile, her stepmother Claire and her young twin brothers provide a chaotic but loving support system. The family’s imperfections add depth to the narrative, highlighting the complexities of relationships and the ways in which families can be both a source of comfort and stress.
Carrie Mac’s writing style is particularly effective in capturing the immediacy of Maeve’s thoughts. The stream-of-consciousness narration immerses readers in Maeve’s anxious mind, offering a visceral sense of her experiences. While this narrative style can feel overwhelming at times, it mirrors Maeve’s own struggles, making it a powerful tool for fostering empathy. The vivid and often humorous descriptions provide moments of levity, balancing the heavier themes of the novel.
The title, 10 Things I Can See From Here, refers to a grounding technique often used to manage anxiety, symbolizing Maeve’s journey toward finding stability amidst the chaos of her mind. It is a subtle yet meaningful metaphor for the way Maeve begins to anchor herself in the present, learning to live with her anxiety rather than letting it completely control her.
Overall, 10 Things I Can See From Here is an emotionally resonant and compassionate novel that sheds light on the challenges of living with anxiety while celebrating the strength it takes to face those challenges. Carrie Mac’s nuanced storytelling and deeply relatable characters make this book a powerful exploration of mental health, family, and love. It’s a story that offers hope and understanding, encouraging readers to embrace the messiness of life and find beauty in their own journeys toward self-acceptance.
