I recently read Stephen Chbosky's young adult novel 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower.' First published in 1999, it was later adapted into a film also written by Chbosky and starring Emma Watson. Interestingly, Chbosky also wrote the screenplay for the film adaptation of 'Wonder' by R.J. Palacio.

The book is written as a series of letters from Charlie to an anonymous friend. While short in length, it packs a powerful punch as it honestly and tenderly describes high school from a teenager's perspective. It covers suicide, friendship, vulnerability and abuse. I am glad I read it, but the ending really pulled the floor out from underneath me. The book has over 2 million ratings on Goodreads.com and currently has 4.24/5 stars. Often seen on lists of banned and challenged books, both the book and the movie are available here at the Vinton Public Library.

Happy reading,

Kelly Henkle, Library Director