Little book that packs a big punch

The Perks of being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky



My rating





My summary

The form of this book was a series of letters written to "Dear Friend" and signed "Love Always, Charlie." Through these letters we get a good look at what Charlie is thinking, feeling, and what his family, friends, and school are like.

My take

This was a very short book but I would not call it a quick read...it's a book that is dense with so much life. The sometimes chaotic thoughts of Charlie reminded me of The Catcher in the Rye, which I haven't read in 20+ years. I was surprised that after all this time I still remember how that book made me feel. 
I later read that CITR was one of a few books that inspired the author.
From the reviews I have seen there seems to be very little middle ground, mostly it's a love it or hate it kind of thing. You already know what side I favor, but I will be honest and say at times this book took me further into dark places than I was comfortable going. However, I stay in reading comfort zones so often that I do need to force myself to venture out, and I am very glad I did in this case. The ending of the book was hopeful, and to use something from the book, it made me feel infinite.