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.
This was a really, really good book. The voice of Charlie was straightforward and plain, but surprisingly affecting. He has this outlook that we've all experienced, but maybe not known about it until you pick up this book and start to realize that you know exactly what he's talking about. There were some parts where the writing was so amazing that it just sets you into the head-space of the book, if you know what I mean. At the risk of sounding cheesy, it really can make you feel infinite. The characters were pronouncedly imperfect, in that lovely way that we all are. The book explored our motivations and insecurities, and wasn't afraid to go into the issues that are important to us all. Now, I'll warn you that there are some awkward subjects here and there throughout the book. The voice of Charlie sets everything out so plainly, that it sets you at risk of being a little uncomfortable occasionally. The upside of his narrative of those situations is that he has this almost unassuming type of innocence that softens the situations a bit. I'd set it at an upper-level high school book or above. Anyway, if you think you'd be okay with some mature situations, I'd really recommend reading this book. It's amazingly powerful and real. It's at Mt. Edgecumbe, give it a try!
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