REVIEW- The perks of being a wallflower

 THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER - Stephen Chbosky

After watching the movie, The perks of being a wallflower, I decided that I had to read the book. The book, although in publication for a while, has recently been reprinted as a film tie-in version. I must say that I had many expectation fo the book because I enjoyed the movie so much. My first impression of the book when i purchased it was that it looked to be a quick read, and it was - I finished the book in an afternoon. The writing style was very simplistic which added to the realism of the book. I found it a fresh change to read a book that was so realistic in comparison to most of the fiction books available for teens.

The book written in the form of letters to a friend, follows 15 year old Charlie experiences during his first year at high school. I really liked the fact that it was written in the form of letters because it felt as if the letters were addressed to you.

Charlie has just started high school and although he is not the biggest geek in the school, he is by no means popular. He is shy, introverted and much of an observer - he is a wallflower, trying to participate in his life but at the same time trying to run away from it. Attempting to navigate his way through uncharted territory: the world of first dates and mix 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.Although  standing on the fringes of life offers a unique perspective for Charlie, there comes a time to see what it looks like from the dance floor.

I found both the book and the movie to be a deeply affecting coming-of-age story that will spirit you back to those wild and poignant roller-coaster days known as growing up. Although the book and the movie do hold some differences, I found that the director, who is also the author of the book, kept true to the story and portrayed his novel in a captivating manner perfect for film. 

Cherezaan Ryklief

Farewell Ann

Yesterday was a day of bittersweetness. We celebrated the birthday of Aretha Jackson-Africa and we also mourned the departure of Anneline Teixeira.

Ann has been working at Brooklyn library for 17 years as well as having volunteered for 2 years prior to her 17 years. Over the years she built up the wonderful childrens collection that we have and poured her heart and soul into her work and into the community. She is well known by all of our library patrons, having established relationships with many of them.

On the morning of her last day we had a farwell breakfast for her. Tears and laughs were shared and it can definitely be said that she left us with many fond memories. We hope that she will miss us as much we are missing her presence in the library and that her new life ventures are filled with excitement, happiness, joy and love. 

Ann was a wonderful spirit and energy in the library and will always be remembered here. We do hope that she returns to the service one day and that her time spent at home raising her little ones is fullfilling and enjoyable.

Much love

The Brooklyn Library Team
xxx