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challenging
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This is an indescribably powerful book about masculinity and yearning to create art and express inner depth in an environment that revoked it. It follows a student at Punchbowl Boys High School in the aftermath of 9/11, as he goes through the HSC, navigates relationships with women, and participates in a multicultural artists' collective that utterly dehumanizes him.
I had my observation placement at Punchbowl boys and it was so interesting to see it represented in this way and to see an ex student reflect on what the experience was like for him through fiction. I think this might end up being one of my favourite reads of the year.
I had my observation placement at Punchbowl boys and it was so interesting to see it represented in this way and to see an ex student reflect on what the experience was like for him through fiction. I think this might end up being one of my favourite reads of the year.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Cursing, Domestic abuse, Drug use, Homophobia, Misogyny, Racial slurs, Racism, Sexism, Sexual content, Violence, Xenophobia, Antisemitism, Islamophobia, Religious bigotry, Toxic friendship, Sexual harassment
Moderate: Bullying, Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Cultural appropriation, Alcohol