If I were to describe this book in one word, it would be sonder— the realization that other people have lives, too. And I think, that Charlie, for multiple times in the book, was experiencing this too.

This is not my first time reading this book. It was my favorite book growing up, and part of it was because I found Charlie very relatable. Like Charlie, I have always been a wallflower growing up— just there. And it was a struggle for me to accept the fact that I was a wallflower. I wanted to belong somewhere. I think we all do.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower follows Charlie's diary entries. I don't think I have ever read a more fervent story than this one. My younger self started owning a diary just so I could be as honest and acknowledge my feelings and emotions the way Charlie did. It's hard to describe what the book is about because it is a bunch of entries, yes, but it felt like a hug. We follow Charlie through thick and thin, and this book was very uncensored and I really liked that aspect of it. I felt like Charlie was talking to me, and in a way, he felt like a friend.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower starts with Charlie entering high school as a freshman, after the death of his best friend. The story progresses from there. It deals with accepting yourself for who you are. Andd a little sprinkle of the fear of growing up. I just felt so seen. And I swear I am not exaggerating when I say I learned more from reading this book than I ever had my whole life.

I'm not articulate enough to add further details about the story, so even if this book may sound unappealing, just give it a try. It's a timeless classic for a reason.