One-line Summary:

Darius the Great Is Not Okay is a heartwarming coming-of-age story that explores themes of identity, friendship, and mental health.

Discovering Identity in a New Culture

Darius Kellner, a sixteen-year-old American-Iranian, feels like an outsider in both his hometown of Portland, Oregon, and his Persian heritage. He struggles with depression and a sense of not belonging, exacerbated by his classmates’ bullying. When his family decides to visit Iran to see his ailing grandfather, Darius sees it as an opportunity to connect with his roots and find a sense of belonging. In Yazd, Iran, Darius experiences a clash of cultures, but also discovers a newfound appreciation for his heritage. Through his interactions with his grandparents, extended family, and new friend Sohrab, Darius begins to embrace his identity and understand that being different is not a weakness, but a strength.

The Power of Friendship

During his stay in Iran, Darius forms a deep bond with Sohrab, a local boy who becomes his guide and confidant. Sohrab introduces Darius to the world of soccer, which becomes a shared passion and a way for Darius to connect with others. Their friendship provides Darius with a sense of belonging and acceptance he has never experienced before. Sohrab’s unwavering support and understanding help Darius navigate his struggles with depression and anxiety. Through their friendship, Darius learns the importance of being there for others and the transformative power of genuine connections.

Navigating Mental Health

Darius’s journey is also marked by his ongoing battle with mental health. He grapples with depression, feeling like a “Fractional Persian” and a disappointment to his father. Throughout the story, Darius attends therapy sessions and takes medication to manage his mental health, highlighting the importance of seeking help and breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness. The author sensitively portrays Darius’s struggles, showing the impact of mental health on daily life and relationships. Darius’s journey serves as a reminder that it’s okay to ask for help and that mental health should be taken seriously.

• Key Takeaways:
• Embrace your identity and appreciate the uniqueness that comes with it.
• True friendship can provide a sense of belonging and acceptance.
• Seeking help for mental health is essential, and there is no shame in asking for support.
• Exploring new cultures can broaden our horizons and challenge our preconceptions.

“I didn’t want to be just the Fractional Persian in America or the tourist in Iran. I wanted to be more than the sum of my parts, and I knew that was possible with Sohrab by my side.”

In Darius the Great Is Not Okay, author Adib Khorram beautifully captures the complexities of identity, friendship, and mental health. Through Darius’s journey, readers are reminded of the importance of embracing one’s heritage, finding true connections, and seeking help when needed. This heartwarming coming-of-age story serves as a reminder that our differences make us unique and that true belonging comes from within.