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Finding Dad, Paranoid Schizophrenia: An End to the Search book cover

Psychology Memoirs · Book 2 · Standalone Sequel

Finding Dad, Paranoid Schizophrenia: An End to the Search

He was lost for nearly a decade. Now they know he’s alive—but still missing.

For years, Amanda searched for the father she refused to forget, while others were forced to let go.

Readers' Favorite 5-star sealIAN Book of the Year Awards finalist seal

About the Book

Joseph disappeared into paranoid schizophrenia—convinced the mob was after him, believing he was a prophet of God, and living on the streets.

For years, Amanda searched for the father she refused to forget, while others were forced to let go.

Then a call from the Missing Persons Division changes everything: her dad is alive.

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But no one knows where, and the systems meant to help him create barriers at every turn.

Driven by urgency and unwavering determination, she navigates a maze of medical, legal, and financial bureaucracy. But the reality she uncovers is more complicated—and more heartbreaking—than she ever imagined. Fleeting moments of recognition, whispered words, and small triumphs illuminate the enduring bonds of family amid the devastating effects of untreated mental illness.

Told from Amanda’s perspective, Finding Dad is a deeply personal true story that explores anosognosia, the impact of schizophrenia on family relationships, and the perseverance required when love alone is not enough. This standalone sequel is both an intimate memoir and a compelling case study of the challenges families face when insight into illness is impaired.

Includes discussion questions for readers, caregivers, and professionals. For the beginning of the family’s journey, read Losing Dad, Paranoid Schizophrenia: A Family’s Search for Hope, told from the perspectives of Amanda, her siblings, and their stepmother, with rare glimpses into her father’s delusions.

Praise for Finding Dad

“a compelling memoir, especially highly recommended.”

— D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

“a bittersweet reflection on the endurance required to love someone lost within themselves.”

— BookLife Reviews

“powerful storytelling and deep empathy… an essential read.”

— K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite (5-Star Review)

Awards & Recognition

  • Finalist, IAN Book-of-the-Year Awards
  • Readers’ Favorite 5-Star Review
Readers' Favorite 5-star sealIAN Book of the Year Awards finalist seal

For Readers, Caregivers, and Professionals

Supplemental Materials

  • Afterword discussing mental health laws
  • Photographs
  • List of resources
  • Reading guide questions

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Book Details

Formats: Paperback, jacketed hardcover, eBook

BISAC Codes

  • PSY022050 PSYCHOLOGY / Psychopathology / Schizophrenia
  • BIO026000 BIOGRAPHY & AUTOBIOGRAPHY / Personal Memoirs
  • BIO017000 BIOGRAPHY & AUTOBIOGRAPHY / Medical (incl. Patients)
  • MED102000 MEDICAL / Mental Health
Amanda LaPera author portrait

About the Author

Amanda LaPera

Amanda LaPera is a passionate advocate for individuals and families dealing with mental illness, because of her family's experience. For ten years, she served on the Board of Directors for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Orange County, CA affiliate (NAMI-OC). In addition to reading and writing, she finds joy in music, art, and nature, which she learned from her dad.

Her books have earned Readers’ Favorite 5-star reviews and BookLife Prize, IBPA Benjamin Franklin, Readers’ Favorite, and IAN Book of the Year Awards recognition.

Losing Dad and Finding Dad books posed together on a wood bridge.

Continue the Series

Read how it all began with Losing Dad.

View Losing Dad

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