While the book is set in the 1990s, "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" written by Stephen Chbosky transcends the nearly two-decade time difference to bring an entirely relatable, witty, and raw view of a high school kid struggling to find his niche.
The book is comprised of letters written by an anonymous teen under the pseudonym Charlie, to a friend the boy has never met.
He writes to a person that never writes back, as a way of coping with his tumultuous feelings regarding his past, present, and future. Comparable to J.D Salinger's, "Catcher in the Rye", "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" presents a unique view of the world through the eyes of a teenage boy, who by most accounts, is considered out of the ordinary; however, unlike Holden Caulfield of "Catcher in the Rye", Charlie is a relatable and charming protagonist.
A quote from Charlie writing about the phenomenon of reading a truly excellent book, perfectly explains "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" for me, "It's very strange because sometimes, I read a book, and I think I am the people in the book".
Chbosky expertly created a protagonist, in which the reader can easily relate and root for. He also proved to be an incredible author and director through his writing and the subsequent movie with an ability to bring the observer into far more than just observation, but the soul and heart of Charlie.
"The Perks of Being a Wallflower" movie is comprised with actors and actresses that so closely resemble the very essence of the book that it becomes nearly impossible to envision anyone other than Logan Lerman as Charlie or Emma Watson as the freedom loving, and sometimes easily led, Sam.
With subjects such as suicide, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, physical abuse, and abortion, "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" certainly covers the heart and gut-wrenching moments of life; however, the book also covers a wide range of positive life moments.
Such as the development of a relationship from stranger to a best friend or the moment a person decides for themselves that they will not allow themselves to be abused. "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" serves as a tale of heartache, joy, and ultimately, the tale of life. As someone who is new to spirituality, this book served as a place of comfort when I believed I had no God to turn too. I'd highly recommend reading it for those 14+.
