The Perks Of Being A Wallflower

The Perks Of Being A Wallflower
By Stephen Chbosky

"We accept the love we think we deserve."

I love this novel for a number of reasons.  Not only does it tackle a wide range of teen issues, but it is done so in an interesting way.  The book is written in a series of letters by a narrator who goes by the alias "Charlie," sent to an anonymous reader.  Charlie is a special person.  He is intelligent and friendly, but also lonely and a little socially awkward.  It isn't until he meets his first real friends as a freshman in high school that he starts to break out of his shell.  Not only does he makes friends with these seniors, but he also has a special relationship with his teacher who provides him with an endless reading list to help him understand his life.

Drugs, partying, sexual orientation identification, and psychological illness drive the book.  It keeps the reader reflecting on the troubles of high school students and how it will get better.

I recommend this book to anyone who is mature enough to handles the big issues in the novel.  There is some blush-worthy conversation, but it is what makes the narrator realistic.  If you liked It's Kind of A Funny Story, this novel is for you.

This novel has also been made into a movie starring one of my favorites, Emma Watson.  Click here to see the trailer!

The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby
By F. Scott Fitzgerald

I am always a fan of reading authors from Minnesota, and F. Scott Fitzgerald is at the top of my list.  His masterpiece, The Great Gatsby, is not only a worldwide classic, but it is also my favorite novel.

The novel is narrated by Nick Carraway as he lives on the West Coast for one remarkable summer.  His next door neighbor is a notorious millionaire, throwing lavish parties weekly.  Although Gatsby seems to have it all, he is missing one key aspect to fulfill the American Dream: love.  Not only is Gatsby's curious past called into question, but also his romantic obsession, unknown occupation, and questionable relationships.  The novel is complete with scandalous affairs and fast cars.

Being my favorite novel, I strongly recommend this book to anyone and everyone.  People who may especially enjoy this novel are ones who appreciate the 1920's, complicated character relationships, and have a flair for the lavish lifestyle of the wealthy.  Warning: F. Scott Fitzgerald is very descriptive and has an extensive vocabulary, so don't be surprise if you do not know the definition of every word in the book!

Happy reading!



P.S.  Although there are already two movies based on the novel, Baz Luhrmann has directed a new 2013 version.  This is exciting being the director of other great movies such as Moulin Rouge! and Romeo+Juliet.  For your viewing pleasure, here is the trailer starring Leonardo DiCapprio and Tobey Maguire: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rARN6agiW7o

Check out this gem I ordered online!  Now I have a sweatshirt to match my favorite book! :)