About the book
A 16-year-old American boy relates in his own words the experiences he goes through at school and after, and reveals with unusual candour the workings of his own mind. What does a boy in his teens think and feel about his teachers, parents, friends and acquaintances?
Reviewed by Hawkley Book Group
An intriguing description of two days in the life of a 16 year old boy. A crisis in his life told from his point of view and in retrospect. The reader may empathise with the character or find him really irritating. Timeless teenage angst.
Star rating: ***
Hampshire Library Service 
Review by Anton U3A Bookies
A unique book of its time, an American classic but difficult to read in this modern era.
Star rating: **
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Review by Eastleigh Library Wednesday Group
Well written book of a teenage boy’s gradual journey towards breakdown. Troubled by low self-esteem, neglect, inability to reach expectations and the death of his brother. Written in the first person the character comes across strongly. The book tends to drift with no real conclusion.
Star rating: **
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Reviewe by Book bites
Generated a long discussion. The points we focussed on were language, era, writing style. Interested reading and enjoyed by most of the group.
Star rating: ***
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Review by Barnfield Book Club
Authentic voice of teenage years. Generated a great deal of discussion – worth a second read.
Star rating: **
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Review by Goodworth Clatford WI
An interesting insight into an American teenage, neglected by his affluent parents and traumatised by his brother’s death. Most of the group found the writing style repetitive and irritating. It would be interesting to see what a modern teenage boy would like about this book as it is in the A level list.
Star rating: **
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Review by Petersfield U3A Book Group 2
This appears to be a “teenage” book. We felt we were of the wrong age to enjoy it.
Star rating *
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