The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a powerful coming-of-age book told as a series of
letters from freshman in high school Charlie. He’s endured difficult experiences, and he feels
distant from his peers but yearning to participate. Through Charlie, Chbosky gives a stunning
account of the experiences of anxiety, awkwardness, and depression. He also demonstrates the
propensity of life to change and to improve, and the beauty of relationships. After Charlie begins
meeting some new friends, growing closer to his teacher, and making important realizations
about life, he emerges transformed and gives an important message to the readers. Anyone
who reads this book will not be the same person before and after.
I really enjoyed this book. Though initially it was difficult to fully engage with, eventually I
was caught up in the events occurring. The narration style was initially awkward but throughout
the book it served to characterize Charlie further. Reading this novel is truly an experience that
makes you consider your life and the lives of others around you. I would recommend this book
to anyone in their later teens or older, and I would give it four out of five stars.