Readability Score: 4
Books I've Read Similar to Perks:
* The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
"The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a story about what it's like to travel that strange course through the uncharted territory of high school. The world of first dates, family dramas, and new friends. Of sex, drugs, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Of those wild and poignant roller-coaster days known as growing up."
-- from The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
I loved this book. Charlie is such a unique and interesting character. I wouldn't call him autistic, though I'm sure some people have. He's more of a quiet, introverted freshman who has no idea how to behave in social situations. Eventually he learns, though, with the help of two seniors named Sam and Patrick. Incidentally (which is one of Charlie's favorite words), Charlie states in the beginning that all the names have been changed to protect people's identities.
Charlie isn't just a kid in a book -- he is also a very real person. You can see parts of him in every teenager, even yourself! This is a coming of age novel that even an adult can enjoy! I know exactly what it's like to be in that awkward teenage phase, or what it feels like when you don't know what to do or say around someone you truly like. Charlie's story, told through a series of letters to an unknown "friend," captures the essence of what it's like to be a freshman in high school.
I think Charlie's story is not only about his own experience, but it's also a reminder to every teenager out there that you're not alone with these strange feelings and desires, and that you will find friends and be happy. Without giving away too much, I would say everyone should read this book. It's easy to read but is full of complicated themes that all humans deal with to some degree. Whether you have teenagers of your own or you are a teenager, give this book a try. You may find that Charlie's story is just what you need.
I'm very excited to see the film adaptation that's coming out in a few weeks!
Reading Next: Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick.
Leave suggestions of books I should review in the comments below!
No comments:
Post a Comment