Book Jacket

 

rank 2812
word count 25540
date submitted 04.06.2010
date updated 26.06.2010
genres: Romance, Young Adult, Popular Cultu...
classification: universal
incomplete

Cola Diet Other

Tyler James Braatz

Cola Diet Other is my memoir about a teenage kid struggling to get by day-to-day life with OCD, depression, loneliness, hormones...

 

Cola Diet Other is my memoir told in first-person about a teenage kid struggling to get by day-to-day life with OCD, depression, loneliness, hormones, lustful thoughts, jerks at school, his lost Christianity, family troubles, and just being a teenager in modern day society that I don't think anyone over the age of 30 understands. Of course with these topics it may be a bit intense, but witty humor is scattered frequently throughout, hopefully making for a good balance.

 
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tags

aspergers, asperger's syndrome, awkward, bipolar, bipolar disorder, cry, depression, first person, funny, hard, high school, lonely, love, memoir, ocd...

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44 comments

 

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lizbsn wrote 21 days ago

Dear Tyler,

I've just read your first chapter, and it really is an excellent description of OCD, and a really likeable read. I'll be back to read more!

I've also started to upload my memoir of OCD (among other mental illnesses), and would appreciate it if you would have a look.

Liz

Clare Wiltshire wrote 637 days ago

This is brilliantly written and describes OCD well through a likeable character. I would buy this book if it was for sale! It reminds me of the book I have on here which is about a girl with OCD and falling in love seems to be a cure for a while for her. She has the same paranoia as your character about what she 'deserves'. Perhaps you might like to have a look at it - it's called 'Kettle. Tap. Door'?

I am going to back yuor book anyway - I love the title by the way - and I am going to back it.

Best of luck with it
Clare

Eveleen wrote 674 days ago

Cola diet other, a well written story
Backed
Eveleen
Hope you'll read mine

Andrew Foley Jones wrote 681 days ago

Back tingling writing from a spectularly different world that the mainstream will learn much from -
shelved with respect and understanding

jfredlee wrote 707 days ago

Tyler -

Happy to back Cola Diet Other (trust me, you've earned it).

Best of luck here.

And if you haven't already done so, I'd love it if you could take a look at my book.

-Jeff Lee
THE LADIES TEMPERANCE CLUB'S FAREWELL TOUR

homewriter wrote 708 days ago

It's already climbing well, Tyler. Well done. A difficult subject dealt with in a skillful and sensitive way. Backed without question! Gordon (The Harpist of Madrid)

solo1 wrote 712 days ago

Just finished reading all six. I found your book to be so open and real and I felt...I found myself going from you talking about your birthday November 1st to mid-March in the hospital back to after your birthday in the ICU to before the birthday...I was following it all, though...right down to all of the characters that you met along the way and your epiphanies...when you explained how your writing felt to you and nothing else mattered, where you were or what was going on...that was me...right there. You wrote me in that one paragraph...good luck with this, Solo

solo1 wrote 712 days ago

Just finished reading all six. I found your book to be so open and real and I felt...I found myself going from you talking about your birthday November 1st to mid-March in the hospital back to after your birthday in the ICU to before the birthday...I was following it all, though...right down to all of the characters that you met along the way and your epiphanies...when you explained how your writing felt to you and nothing else mattered, where you were or what was going on...that was me...right there. You wrote me in that one paragraph...good luck with this, Solo

Arcana_Hereticae wrote 713 days ago

Having been a teenager in 2008, I don't really recall drinking, fucking, smoking, and getting shit-faced all weekend, every weekend. There was also a lot of studying, planning, and facebook conversations, which is another description from your book that I liked as well. When everyone in my entire school had a facebook, it did seem like everyone knew each other eventually.
Anyway, I chose to read your book because I liked the cover. I also really like the first-person narrative as well.
I kind of feel like--and forgive me for this, because I hate making this critique, having gotten a lot with one of my previous novels--that your paragraphs are a bit lengthy and choppy and could stand to be broken up a bit so that they would flow more.
Anyway, backed with pleasure.

tovapearl wrote 713 days ago

well written, honest, you really understand tyler. I felt like i want to talk to him, tell him to have more confidence in himself. great read
backed

Joanna Carter wrote 713 days ago

Compelling, honest and gritty - I couldn't stop reading. I wish you the very best of luck with this. Backed.
Joanna Carter
Fossil Farm

Kidd1 wrote 713 days ago

Great storytelling ability with lessons for those YA's who can deal with their emotions. Authentically honest voice and tone. Well Done. BAcked

I hope you will give mine a read and back it if you like it.
Best,
Robert
Golden Conspiracy

dave_ancon wrote 713 days ago

Well done. I'm beginning to remember what it was like growing up. Bravo and I'll back this for you. Dave

Su Dan wrote 713 days ago

this a very well crafted book; honest and skillfully written. maybe a tone down on the strong language and this could be suitable for a wider audiance...that, of course it down to you...maybe i am wrong...; watchlist...
read SEASONS...

samtowle wrote 713 days ago

This is a real insight into the mind of a teenage boy, his voice is so loud it's practicallly screaming at you from the page - and I mean that in a very good way! You cover some really sensitive issues here with real consideration. Very well written.
Backed :)

Elizabeth Wolfe wrote 714 days ago

I enjoy the way your book is filled with different kinds of writing, from poetry to prose and filled with thoughts. You might think no one over 30 will get it, but that's not true. Many people remember their teen years as difficult times. You might want to look at my book, Memories of Glory. It's about a girl aged 15 who has some of the very same thoughts expressed in your book. Keep writing! BACKED -Elizabeth Wolfe (Memories of Glory)

KirstyCrees wrote 714 days ago

Hello,

Love the rawness of this work. I love the obsessions, self-hatred, insecurity of a teenager. The dialogue is sometimes harsh, sometimes funny. It is a good read and you aren’t quite sure what to expect next.

Backed!

Kirsty
Prygon: The Circle of Dark Magic

DP Walker wrote 715 days ago

Hi Tyler
I think this is really clever- you have covered some awkward, sensitive topics yet made this entertaining and funny at the same time. A great read. The cover is really good too and should attract a lot of readers.
DP Walker
Five Dares

mariecapri wrote 716 days ago

HI Tyler. You have a unique voice and your emotions in dealing with everyday life come through in your writing. I think you have really enjoyed writing this and found your niche. I think your story will benefit others and I hope you do well. Backed and best of luck! Maria (Cosmic Linx)

A. Zoomer wrote 716 days ago

COLA DIET OTHER

Dear Tyler,

Your title works perfectly.
I love the insight I get from reading this piece. The dialogue helps me to understand.

You have crafted an amazing read for an older person, like myself to understand the current pressures of our silly society.

Keep writing,
A zoomer
Going Out in Style

lisawb wrote 716 days ago

Brilliantly written giving great insight on a sensitive topic. This is a compelling read that is significant as it has value for the insight it brings. It could help many others. Congratulations on writing this so well.

It has been on my shelf for a few days as it is very worthy of the backing.

Ww Lisa

Tyler Braatz wrote 717 days ago

Hey guys, A LOT going on right now in my life but the second I get the chance I'll write more and most importantly read all of your things, comment, and back! Thank you all so much for your comments and for reading my material. Just one note to clarify: I am fine with and generally trust people over 30 or people of any age, I was referring to how, in my opinion the majority of older folks (save some parents, of course) don't completely understand in full, explicit detail exactly how hard it is growing up or being a teenager nowadays, thanks to so many different reasons. I wanted to help these people understand, especially the "Those darn kids" type of people, understand what we're going through. So I apologize for the misunderstanding, I would never have an issue with anyone for such a silly reason as mere age. Thanks again for the support, it will be returned soon!

Ransom Heart wrote 717 days ago

Beautifully done description of the deadly mixture of having OCD and being a teenager full of pizza, scrambled eggs, and scrambled brains. Backed. Marianne (Saint Paddy and the Sundial)

Barry Wenlock wrote 717 days ago

Hi Tyler,
I think you've done a good job with this.

I'm over 30 (just) and appreciated the feelings of anxiety as well as the humour and witty, if at times caustic , dialogue.

Backed with pleasure,
Barry
Little Krisna and the Bihar Boys

Melcom wrote 718 days ago

An absolutely compelling read, I'm not usually a fan of first person but you have managed to successfully pull it off.

A tough subject handled with wit and a positive approach.
Happily shelved.
Melxx

Famlavan wrote 718 days ago

What a brilliant idea!
Wondered if the first person was going to hold it back – NOT ONE BIT! I think with the style you use you have pulled this off brilliantly.
This was lyrical in places and a joy to read.

Burgio wrote 719 days ago

COLA DIET OTHER
This is an interesting story. I haven’t heard anyone say they don’t trust people over 30 since the sixties so it was strange to hear that again, but okay. I’m sure it seems true. As your audience will be young adults, you might define what OCD refers to early in the story as I’m not sure everyone will understand what that means – and it plays a big role in the story. The highlight of this is your writing style: clear and easy to follow. Makes it a good read. I’m adding it to my shelf. Burgio (Grain of Salt).

Mr. Nom de Plume wrote 719 days ago

The work is excellent because a great spirit for writing is evident from the start. Backed. Chuck (Paperboy Adventures & Literary Agent Blues)

PATRICK BARRETT wrote 719 days ago

An eye-catching book cover & a thought provoking & well written submission. You have got real talent & write in a poetic and easy to read manner. I think your book will have wide appeal & should do really well. Wishing you every success - I can't believe you are only nineteen! Best wishes - Paula (Cuthbert: How mean is my Valley?)

lizjrnm wrote 719 days ago

Backed with pleasure. Well crafted and polished. I think you will like the teens in my book as well.

Liz
The Cheech Room

yasmin esack wrote 719 days ago

Gripping talent as is this well written story of deep insecurity and goundlessness.

A pleasure to back such fine talent

the lord of the dawn
backed (yesterday)

sjbal wrote 719 days ago

Hi Tyler,
Backed, backed without question., A very intense and wonderfully written peice of work full of great details. Brilliant.
Good luck,
James (The Lycetta Legacy).

name falied moderation wrote 719 days ago

Your pitch though short was perfect to take me to your book. Then came the poem which was well set. I didn't see how old you are but you feel right inside a young persons body and head, for you got me there also. Brilliant writing skills Tyler.
BACKED FOR SURE. I have not read all your book, but will continue. Would you read some of my book non-fiction, and give your feedback? much appreciated.

Denise

eloraine wrote 719 days ago

Really well done, I wish you the very best with it. E.Loraine Royal Blood Chronicles book one

mclevin wrote 719 days ago

This book will climb. It certainly has pulled me along with it thus far. The wit contained within takes some of the edge off, but the blade remains very sharp. A tough topic that is entirely readable and very enjoyable.

Authonomy welcomes writers like you any time!

I know I do. So does my shelf. Backed!

Best of luck,

-g

lynn clayton wrote 719 days ago

To make such a subject not only interesting but entertaining takes real ability. But you're clever enough to tell it in the first person which makes it personal and intimate. There's something very attractive about someone who sees the good points in another person while comparing them to the bad ones in himself - far more attractive than someone with 'high self-esteem' - they're usually the ones who see good in no one but themselves. You've written an eloquent and endearing book. Brilliant. Backed. Lynn

soutexmex wrote 719 days ago

Welcome aboard, Tyler. This website will improve your writing craft, if you allow it. I'm a bit of a pitch doctor, having read thousands of pitches in my time on this website, so I want to share my insight here with you. You have to think of your pitches as your sales tool to grab the casual reader's eyes. The short pitch actually works but you are not tagging this as non-fiction or Harper True Life. The long pitch works needs to be expanded; show a mini story arch. Perfecting your pitches is how you climb in ranking to gather more exposure and comments to better your novel. The writing is good so I am SHELVING you.

Though I have been a very active member for over a year and have the most commented book on the website, I can still use your comments on my book when you get the chance. Every little bit helps. Cheers!

JC
The Obergemau Key

Author apart from the rest wrote 719 days ago

Tyler,

I love this book because I am diagnosed with O.C.D. and Depression, and I know the heartache both can bring! Backed 100%

Rob

sharon cooper wrote 719 days ago

Wow! what a powerful first chapter! Your writing is amazing, and your story is heartbreaking, yet entertaining. it speaks of the insecurities we all battle with on a daily basis. Everyone should read your book. Your grammar is practically flawless, and your ability to pour a montage of thoughts onto the page with such vivid detail is enviable. This book is going to go far. Best Wishes!
Sharon Cooper
Seka

Gauis wrote 719 days ago

I really enjoy the first person closeness

Blousie wrote 719 days ago

Tyler, you brought tears to my ears – and not just because of the heartbreaking emotions you talk about here but also because of the incredibly raw, honest way you express them in your prose. I cannot believe you are only 19 – your writing style is so accomplished and mature. As someone who shared a similar childhood, I was there with you all the way.

A small point: you need to look at your grammar and punctuation. But this doesn't detract from the powerful story you tell here.

Karen
The Kid: A True Story of Cocaine, Corruption, Deceit and Betrayal



Amylovesbooks wrote 720 days ago

This story is not only brutally honest and real, but very, very witty. I laughed out loud on more than one occasion. I think you've got authentic talent for telling a story, and I wish you the best with this. Backed with pleasure!

Amy
Love Match

Cait wrote 720 days ago

Cola Diet Other:

For a nineteen-year-old you sure can write! I’m envious… When I was nineteen I could barely construct a paragraph…

I find the subject matter very interesting and your great prose just kept me going.

Just a couple of nits below, and I’m no pro so I won’t mind if you ignore them. ;) But your writing just flows so well, I feel guilty for even mentioning these...

Capital F for facebook.

Here in chapter two - …or what he’s capable of. He gives his pals some high fives before strutting out the door.-
Should this be past tense? - or what he could be capable of. He gave his pals some high fives before strutting out the door.? He high-fived his pals before strutting out the door?

Check the change to present tense in several other areas also? but maybe I’m not reading it right?

I found the first two chapters not just enlightening, but a fascinating read, and I love your sense of humour which you so naturally sprinkle throughout. :o)

All the very best, I’ve already shelved it, but will return to read more when time permits.

Cáit ~ Muckers ~

SusieGulick wrote 720 days ago

Dear Tyler, I love that you have written about Diet Coke addiction - my husband is 54 & has been most of his life, drinking 3 liters 3xs daily at McDs while reading (obsessive compulsive) for an hour (not 59 minutes or 61 minutes) - he & his brother have inherited from their mom also paranoia & shcizo, controlled my meds & have been the mental hospital for a month, but diet coke make it not work as you'll see in my memoir, completed unedited version, "Tell Me True Love Stories." I even have the Caffeine Book & he won't listen. His psychologist tells him 12oz before 2pm to no avail, so also anxiety attacks - I understand your book COMPLETELY, but he is in denial. :( Thank you for stepping up & writing this book. :) Before I began to read your book, I was so excited & prepared by your pitch, which was totally excellent. :) Your book is good because you create interest by having short paragraphs & lots of dialogue, which makes me want to keep reading to find out what's going to happen next. I'm "backing" your book. :) "When you back a book, it only improves the ranking of that book, not yours. However, the author whose book you are backing may decide to back your book also, in which case yes, your ranking would be improved"...authonomy quote. :) Please "back" my TWO memoir books - the above mentioned & the edited imcomplete version (only up 1992 when I met 6th abusive my husband - I've been too ill to complete), "He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not?" Thanks, Susie :)
additional authonomy quote: "Every time you place a book on your bookshelf, your recommendation pushes the book up the rankings. And while that book sits on your bookshelf, your reputation as a talent spotter increases depending on how well that book performs." :)
backed :)
Love, Susie :)

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