I read a lot of books and comics last year. Stories from epic science fiction concentrated to a sand planet, to a chocolate shop in small French town. I read about defending your home from the Yakuza, about being crazy, about the everyday misery of post-apocalypse and about the deep, deep sorrow of knowing that one day soon you are going to die and how really it’s more sad for the people who you leave behind. I read a lot more, both comics and novels and most of them I loved. Some I hated, but I can’t always win.

Out of all the stories I read, one stood out to me particularly: The Perks Of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky.

 

 

Some of you might know this as a fairly recent movie where Hermione lets this weird kid touch her boobs, but there’s more to it. I just watched the movie and it made a great job transforming the novel into screen; I enjoyed it, but my real love is for the novel.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower was the strongest and the most vivid reading experience for me last year. It’s hard for me to explain what made it so special. I guess in essence, I feel as if it was hand-crafted just for me.

It was one of those books where you really can get into the main characters head without any of the annoying angst and instead you have all these interesting feelings of conflict and confusion. Surprising twists and relatable narrative. All around it was a great story and I enjoyed it so much, that even months after I still remember how I felt reading it. It’s incredibly awkward, sad and funny book at the same time and with one of the strongest soundtracks ever.

Those of you who like movies and want to watch it (I know you want to see Hermione’s boobs, you pervert.), please consider reading the book first – it will be infinitely stronger experience as a whole.

Kaija just started reading Everything is Illuminated. Judging by her reaction to the first chapter (snorting and giggling) it’s definitely something I want to pick up and fast.

 

– Silver