The Isolation of Depression

The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Author: Stephen Chbosky
Publisher: Gallery Books
Date: 1999

So, this is my life. And I want you to know that I am both happy and sad and I'm still trying to figure out how that could be.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is written as a series of letters from sixteen-year-old Charlie, writing anonymously to a stranger about his life. Shy, sensitive and intelligent, Charlie lives much of his life in his head, distancing himself from the world. Although it's never specifically mentioned, it is clear to the reader that Charlie suffers from depression. All of the characters and incidents in the novel are shown through his sometimes insightful, occasionally naïve viewpoint, with a reflective and personal tone. Throughout the novel, he deals with a range of issues, from first loves to sexuality, abuse, suicide, drug use and finding out who he really is. A coming-of-age story with a uniquely vulnerable protagonist.

Recommended for: 16-20 years
Image Source: GoodReads
 The Perks of Being a Wallflower is currently being made into a film starring Logan Lerman and Emma Watson, due for release in September 2012.