Sunday, May 23, 2010

Twisted by Laurie Halse Anderson

I have decided to use the Amazon Associates Program to provide links and pictures to the books that I read and review. If you purchase a book from the link that is provided, I get a small commission. If not, I won't be offended. As I have stated from the beginning, I created this blog to document the books that I read. That is the primary goal. I just wanted to let you know, though, what changes I have made.

I wondered what Twisted was about when I bought it. The inside flap of the dust jacket says simply, " Everybody told me to be a man. Nobody told me how." I thought that sounded interesting enough, though it didn't really apply to my life. I began reading it a couple weeks ago. The book is mostly about a young man who has made some bad decisions and has an emotionally abusive father. It really goes through what it is like to be a teenage boy who is trying to fit in in school, relating with the opposite sex, and dealing with issues at home. It was a clear look at what it is like to be a teenager.

I thought the ending was good, possibly trite, but when I closed the book, I was excited to recommend it. As I have said, I mentor, so I made a note to stick this book back on my shelf and hold on to it until I have a boy or a child who is going through a similar situation. The book is relatable regardless of the specifics, and it would be a great read for anyone with a child, with a friend who is living in an abusive relationship. The book really seems therapeutic. It could easily be used to teach.

The book deals with so many things - thoughts of suicide, emotional abuse, hormones, false accusations, fitting in at school, and so many other things. I highly recommend this book.