THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER by Stephen Chbosky

THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER
Author: Stephen Chbosky

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: MTV (February 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0671027344
• ISBN-13: 978-0671027346

SYNOPSIS:

Standing on the fringes of life…

offers a unique perspective. But there comes a time to see what it looks like from the dance floor.

This haunting novel about the dilemma of passivity vs. passion marks the stunning debut of a provocative new voice in contemporary fiction: The Perks of Being a Wallflower.

This is the story of what it’s like to grow up in high school. More intimate than a diary, Charlie’s letters are singular and unique, hilarious and devastating. We may not know where he lives. We may not know to whom he is writing. All we know is the world he shares. Caught between trying to live his life and trying to run from it puts him on a strange course through uncharted territory. The world of first dates and mixed tapes, family dramas and new friends. The world of sex, drugs, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, when all one requires is that perfect song on that perfect drive to feel infinite.

Through Charlie, Stephen Chbosky has created a deeply affecting coming-of-age story, a powerful novel that will spirit you back to those wild and poignant roller coaster days known as growing up.

MY THOUGHTS:

Once in awhile you come across one of those books that leave a lasting impression when you are done reading them. This is one of those books.

I first noticed this book awhile back during banned books week. From what I understand, this book is banned from school libraries in some states. Why I can see how some parents would find this book inappropriate, I don’t feel this should be a book that is banned. I mean, come on, teens nowadays hear and see worse things than what is in this book on a daily basis at school. Personally, I would let my teens read this with no worries. I can see the point and the lesson’s that the author was trying to get across. We see Charlie deal with drug abuse, sex, molestation, depression, alcohol abuse and many more things. But not all to him, but to others as well. This book leaves a lasting impression on you. When you finish it, you just close the book and say WOW! That was my reaction to the book. I can now see why so many people have enjoyed this book.

I feel that no books should be banned. All books that are printed are meant to be read by someone. If we have freedom of speech we should have freedom to read. If anything, maybe have a parent read it first and let them use their own judgment in letting their teen read it.

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!