"Dying is black and white, but suicide is gray." (33)
What a tough topic for a book. Controversial for what the topic is, but honest and raw for what the emotions are. Just a Normal Tuesday by Kim Turrisi is a story about grief, life, friendship and the thin line that tied them all together, and the balance it creates in one.

I really felt the emotional tug of this story, especially after learning at the end of the book, that the author too had lost a sister to suicide. There's a genuine aspect of this story throughout, and as a reader, you'll see it, feel it and even visualize it, even if you've never experienced the type of grief shown in this book.

The characters, not just Kai, but everyone were very well developed to a point of certainty in who they are and what they represent. The candor portrayal of the characters in grief camp created a well balanced atmosphere of the different stories that grief comes from. The downward spiral of Kai's depression that led to what finally brings her out of it had its affect, but in truth, I was uneasy with it. Possibly because it's so raw, but in truth, I think the easy access Kai and company get their hands on drugs and alcohol makes too much of a susceptible impression on readers, especially young readers. With that said, I still think  Just a Normal Tuesday make a great read for young adults that are going through grief that dealt with death of someone close to them. For a younger audience, possibly with some parental guidance or chance for discussion?

". . . it's not betrayal to allow happiness back into your life.." (198)

The parent-child relationship between Kai and her parents deserved a mentioned. At such a rebellious age, and dealing with anger and depression as a result of grief can be hard to manage, especially when the adults are also dealing with the same grief. The author's depiction of their relationship, from the beginning to the breaking point and to the reconciliation was well portrayed and managed. I thought the "learning curve" of getting back to normalcy aspect  was well done, and the ending was just perfect.

Just a Normal Tuesday is not about suicide, though more on the effects of what it does to the living. It is passionately heartrending and alarmingly real. It's not to be trifled with, nor a read to dismiss. Though those that don't appreciate foul language will find it excessive in this book. Despite that, I do believe the message of hope beyond makes it worthwhile.

"Only when it's dark enough, you can see the stars.." (232)