Review of The Angel of Death Origins

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Daniel Hughess
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Review of The Angel of Death Origins

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[Following is a volunteer review of "The Angel of Death Origins" by Laurent Cousineau.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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The Angel of Death Origins: OCD, Bullying, and Questioning Reality by Laurent Cousineau delves into the harrowing journey of its fictional protagonist, Laurent Casino, whose experiences are based on the author's own life. Born in 1992 to a French Canadian Belgian father and an Italian mother, Laurent navigates a tumultuous upbringing marked by his multicultural background in a world that often feels hostile. From a young age, he faces relentless bullying due to his accent, French name, and lack of athletic prowess, which continues through his elementary and high school years.

This constant torment exacerbates Laurent's insecurities, leading to severe PTSD, depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). He begins to question his self-worth and the very nature of reality, descending into suicidal ideation that results in multiple stays in psychiatric hospitals. As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds, Laurent grapples with the misinformation and denial spread by politicians and the media. He also expresses a deep concern for climate change. Ultimately, Laurent considers taking legal action against his abusive classmates and the negligent school administration.

I greatly admire how Cousineau courageously documents the profound challenges faced by today's youth through Laurent's journey. Laurent's painful transformation mirrors societal issues such as bullying and environmental crises. Despite these adversities, his resilient voice emerges, offering truths in a world seemingly on the brink of collapse. The inclusion of Laurent's three original plays enhances the thematic depth of the book. This memoir uplifts through its honesty, bravery, and moral complexity. Cousineau addresses harsh realities with both sensitivity and insight, calling for accountability and better mental health resources. The book left a lasting impression on me long after I finished reading.

The combination of personal experience with philosophical musings makes this memoir truly exceptional. It explores existential and ethical questions through the lens of lived trauma, adding remarkable depth to the narrative. This elevates the work beyond a simple autobiography, transforming it into a profound reflection on modern societal dynamics. The result is a compelling call to action for personal growth and social reform. The author advocates for changes across various spectrums, from confronting mental health stigma to addressing global crises.

For readers interested in the effects of bullying, mental health issues, or existential questions, this book offers profound insights. I would describe this book as a challenging yet inspiring journey, recounted with remarkable honesty and skill. The book is well-edited, and I found no faults with it. Therefore, I rate it 5 out of 5 stars.

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The Angel of Death Origins
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