Why Every Teenager Should Read The Perks of Being A Wallflower

Image Source: Simon and Schuster

If you have ever felt invisible or as if you don’t belong, The Perks of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky will reassure you that you are not alone.

This coming-of-age story is told in the form of letters, written by 15-year-old Charlie, as he endures his freshman year of high school. Although the recipient of Charlie’s letters is unknown, his first-person perspective creates an intimate relationship between reader and narrator, as if it were a conversation between friends.

Charlie’s shy nature develops through his storytelling; and his disheartening high school encounters radiate the relatable feeling of loneliness, and embodies adolescence in a truly honest, raw fashion.

Throughout the story, Charlie is taken under the wing of two seniors, Sam and Patrick. They invite Charlie to Friday night football games, late-night burger and milkshake runs, parties, and share new music and literature with him. The friendship between the three adds an endearing touch to the plot, and develops elements of confidence and self-acceptance in Charlie’s voice. The relationship between characters shares the message that sometimes all it takes is a friend to survive the confusing challenges of growing up.

Chbosky’s novel captures every emotion of what it’s like to be a teenager. Bullies, sexuality, drugs, first kisses, self-esteem, wanting to be noticed; all of these are elements of growing up, and Chbosky touches on each of them authentically and honestly. If you’ve ever felt like it’s never going to get better, The Perks of Being A Wallflower will be your best friend.