Finding Order in Disorder by Ishaa Vinod Chopra

Finding Order in Disorder

Ishaa Vinod Chopra

Om Books International (2024)

978-9394547100

Reviewed by Jordan Waterwash for Reader Views (10/2025)

https://readerviews.com/reviews/finding-order-in-disorder-chopra/

5/5

Living with mental health issues can be traumatizing, confusing, and isolating. Finding Order in Disorder by Ishaa Vinod Chopra aims to ease those negative feelings through personal narrative and insightful commentary. In particular, Chopra shares her journey with her own bipolar diagnosis. Diagnosed at sixteen in Canada, Chopra describes the ups and downs she faces throughout her life as she moves around the globe. She pays extra attention to her culture’s view of mental health, which often included biased views or complete denial of their existence. Chopra dives deep into her own past to help the reader understand themselves better, seek help if they need it, and reflect on their own views about mental health.

The stories detailed by Chopra were clearly personal to her. The troubles she shared throughout her life were heartfelt and told with the understanding that others would be reading to glean insight into their own mental health. That being said, there were some moments I wished went a little deeper. On occasion some stories left out key details that would have added needed context, so I was left feeling a bit confused. On the whole, though, each personal story felt authentic and vulnerable.

The writing itself leaned academic in tone, but that did not lower the experience in any way. In fact, it often enhanced it. Paired with the deeply personal stories, the tone of the writing provided a sense of clarity and understanding. Because of the style, the reader is more able to reflect on their own mental health journey while using Chopra’s experiences as a guide. Her experiences show the reader they are not alone, and that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. She also includes many stories involving her family, which are a treat to read. Coming from a family of filmmakers, Chopra shares her family’s deep love of artistic endeavors. Her mother is also a creative who made a film about her and Chopra’s relationship while navigating Chopra’s mental health journey.

Finding Order in Disorder allows the reader to break down their walls and let the advice Chopra gives into their lives. While not exactly self-help, this book does give readers solid advice about any personal struggles they may be encountering, and shows the reader they aren’t alone by including her own troubles and successes. This is an uplifting read all around.