The Perks of Being a Wallflower

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Stephen Chbosky

Hands down, this is the most endearing book I've ever read. What makes it great is the amazing characterization of the lovable Charlie. This is most definitely a book you can not put down. Chbosky has the most honest way of writing. The text is simple and easy to read, complementing Charlie's character. Through his letters to any reader, Charlie's world of innocence, literature, first-time drug use, "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," sex, and growing up is unraveled in Charlie's own letters. Chbosky creates a relationship between the reader and Charlie, so that it seems Charlie is writing directly to the reader.This book has been compared to The Catcher in the Rye and A Separate Peace, but it is not a tale of a depressed, teenager in search of himself while criticizing the rest of the world. Rather, it is the narrative of a unique young "wallflower," one who "sees things, keeps quiet about them ... and understands," and looks for an honest world to live in. Through out his freshman year, Charlie grows from a naive child to an independent and thoughtful character with the guidance of an English teacher and two seniors. Charlie's mind is far from simple, and he faces many obstacles including death in his family, dating, drugs, rape, suicide and his strong emotions. By conquering these, Charlie becomes an even stronger character.On the first page, Charlie says that he "just needs to know that someone out there listens and understands and doesn't try to sleep with people even if they could have." This book immediately hit a connection with me because Charlie has a way of putting life in words. There is a little part of Charlie in everyone. After reading The Perks of Being a Wallflower, I assure you that Charlie will be with you forever.