Symptoms of Being Human Audiobook by Jeff Garvin

It was a quiet Sunday morning, and I found myself sitting in my backyard garden, the sun gently warming my skin as I sipped on a cup of herbal tea. The birds were chirping, and the breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers – a perfect setting to dive into “Symptoms of Being Human” by Jeff Garvin. As I pressed play, Tom Phelan’s voice filled my ears, and within minutes, I was completely absorbed in Riley Cavanaugh’s world.

Riley’s story is one of those rare narratives that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. As someone who has always been drawn to stories about identity and self-discovery, I was immediately captivated by Riley’s journey. The way Jeff Garvin portrays Riley’s gender fluidity is raw, honest, and incredibly moving. It’s not often that a book makes you feel so seen, even if your own experiences are different from the protagonist’s. Riley’s struggles with self-acceptance, family expectations, and societal pressures resonated with me on a profound level. There were moments when I found myself nodding along, feeling every ounce of Riley’s frustration and fear.

Tom Phelan’s narration brought an extra layer of authenticity to the story. His voice perfectly captured Riley’s snarky humor, vulnerability, and resilience. There were times when I laughed out loud at Riley’s witty comebacks and other moments when I had to pause just to catch my breath because the emotions hit so hard. The scene where Riley starts their anonymous blog felt particularly powerful – it reminded me of how liberating it can be to find a safe space to express yourself, even if it’s just online.

What struck me most about this audiobook was its ability to balance heavy themes with moments of hope and lightness. Yes, Riley faces immense challenges – navigating a new school, dealing with a politically charged family life, and grappling with their identity – but there are also beautiful moments of connection and growth. The friendships Riley forms felt genuine and heartwarming, especially their bond with Bec and Solo. And let’s not forget the romance! It was tender and sweet without overshadowing the main narrative.

By the time I finished listening, I felt like I had been on an emotional journey alongside Riley. This audiobook isn’t just a story; it’s an experience – one that stays with you long after the final chapter. If you’re looking for a book that will make you think, feel deeply, and maybe even see the world a little differently, “Symptoms of Being Human” is it.

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