An incredible, honest, human coming of age story of a young man searching for his place in the world. The characters and the world ring true to reality, with the events feeling ever present. When Charlie is hurting, this reader feels that. When Charlie is filled with love, this reader is delighted. Most importantly, Charlie's story, which is both relatable and fully his own, covers topics that are often hidden away

(childhood sexual abuse)

and pulls them into the conversation at a pace Charlie is comfortable with. The story's complete focus on Charlie's perspective, his growth, his growing understanding of the world, is the soul of the book and ultimately why the book is so successful. Truly an amazing story.