Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Almost Perfect - Brian Katcher


Almost Perfect by Brian Katcher is a terrifying and amazing book. I gush about this book not because it is one of my favorites, but because it is so well-written and so sharp. Hits the nail right on the head, and then some.

I've read a lot of books that handle tough issues. But I always feel like those are elements of character to make it interesting (whether it be anorexia, cutting, etc.) But the question of sexuality in Almost Perfect is ingrained into the storyline. It is torn apart and reassembled and dissected and molded into the story. Katcher sucessfully divulges the black and the white. He makes us feel GUILTY - which, good writing can do.

Even though it's been a few months since I've read this book, sometimes I go back and think about what had happened and how I wish it could've gone differently. It's a very haunting and eerie book, that latches onto your mind and makes you think and think and think about it.

But, as I said - it is a bit of one of those in-between topics that some people may feel uncomfortable with, which is fine. But if you'd like a challenge yourself, or are genuinely just interested, this is an excellent book with an excellent story.

Monday, August 15, 2011

Goodbye.


Whenever I start talking about college, people tell me I’ll be fine and that’s when I stop listening. And it’s not that I don’t believe them – but if a vicious man-eating bunny were to bite off your leg, it won't hurt once you bleed to death so don't worry.

I don’t mean to be overdramatic about it, and I don’t meant to spoil the fun for people who are actually looking forward to college. But I am sentimental at heart, and I’ve already started to miss home.

My mom tells me to be brave, because people aren’t made to be fearless. And not to get overwhelmed, even though she knows I will be. And we don’t say it, but we know it’s a goodbye.

It’s strange to leave behind a place you’ve lived in for 18 years. Especially when this is the place filled with the people and things that have made me me.And I can only bring so many of my memories with me. I have to leave a part of me behind, so that something new can grow in its place. I have to tremble when I walk, so I can learn how to run.

But for now, I’m glad to spend one last glorious day hanging out with my friends.

I'm going to miss home. I'm going to miss the convenience of familiarity. But I have to say goodbye.

Goodbye. Such a beautiful and sad word. It’s like tying a ribbon on a box full of old letters. Or closing the last page of a good book. Or putting away a well-worn pair of shoes.

But I'm kind of glad for it. Because it means I have something to be sad about.