Category: Historical Non-Fiction Review: Central State Asylum for the Insane is a historical non-fiction book that delves into the history and operations of one of America's most notorious mental institutions. The author, Dr. David J. Miklowitz, provides a detailed account of the asylum's founding, its early years, and its eventual decline. The book is well-researched and includes numerous primary sources, including letters, diaries, and government documents. This allows readers to gain a firsthand look at life inside the asylum and the treatment of its patients. The author also provides context for the time period, explaining how mental illness was viewed and treated during this era. One of the most interesting aspects of the book is the way in which it challenges common assumptions about the asylum. Rather than portraying it as a place of cruelty and oppression, Miklowitz argues that the asylum was actually a relatively humane institution that provided care to those who needed it. He also highlights the role that the asylum played in advancing our understanding of mental illness and developing new treatments for it. Another standout feature of the book is its exploration of the asylum's legacy. Miklowitz traces how the asylum has been remembered and portrayed in popular culture, from literature to film to television. He also discusses how the asylum's influence can still be felt today, in our attitudes towards mental illness and the way we treat those who suffer from it. Overall, Central State Asylum for the Insane is a fascinating and well-written book that sheds new light on an important chapter of American history.