This Is Really Happening

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is facing a serious health challenge or struggling with the overwhelming, often awkward transition into young adulthood. Erin Chack uses a comedic lens to recount her journey through a cancer diagnosis at age eighteen, alongside the relatable blunders of growing up and entering the workforce. It is an ideal pick for those seeking to normalize the fear of illness without losing a sense of humor. While the subject matter includes chemotherapy and the mortality of a young person, the tone remains lighthearted and grounded in resilience. It is best suited for older teens (14-18) who appreciate a conversational, Buzzfeed-style narrative. Parents will value how the book encourages open dialogue about self-image, medical anxiety, and the messy reality of being a 'real person' in a high-pressure world.