The Perks of Being a Wallflower: the most moving coming-of-age classic

Stephen Chbosky

May 2012 · Simon and Schuster

About this ebook

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a deeply affecting coming-of-age story that will spirit you back to those wild and poignant roller-coaster days known as growing up. Now a major motion picture starring Emma Watson and Logan Lerman. Stephen Chbosky's new film Wonder, starring Owen Wilson and Julia Roberts is out now. 

Charlie is a freshman. And while he's not the biggest geek in the school, he is by no means popular. Shy, introspective, intelligent beyond his years yet socially awkward, he is a wallflower, caught between trying to live his life and trying to run from it. Charlie is attempting to navigate his way through uncharted territory: the world of first dates and mix-tapes, family dramas and new friends; the world of sex, drugs, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, when all one requires is that perfect song on that perfect drive to feel infinite. But Charlie can't stay on the sideline forever. Standing on the fringes of life offers a unique perspective. But there comes a time to see what it looks like from the dance floor.

'A coming of age tale in the tradition of The Catcher in the Rye and A Separate Peace... often inspirational and always beautifully written' USA Today

Ratings and reviews

The book really sheds light and brings the readers an immersive experience into the life of a curious, troubled kid in his journey of growing up. It highlights and accentuates certain struggles some may have, and may relate to in the process of finding themselves as they grow, especially in the aspect of interpersonal relationships. I've felt very drawn into the world Charlie lives in, feeling what he's felt, and connecting those experiences with my personal life. I'd highly recommend this book as a read to reflect on oneself, to remember the processes and challenges one has faced growing up, and use it as an opportunity to identify the good and bad things that have contributed to who you may be now, in the present.

I don't know why but I really liked this book I think it's because you really feel for the character and it all seems very real and really makes you think about life. A different but great book.

This book is great! Im a teenager and loved it!! Sad but funny aswell at some parts:)

About the author

Stephen Chbosky wrote and directed the feature film adaptation of his award-winning novel, The Perks of Being a Wallflower. He has worked in film and television, on projects including the film version of the smash-hit musical Rent; the TV show Jericho; and others. He also edited Pieces, a collection of short stories for Pocket Books. A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Chbosky graduated from the University of Southern California’s Filmic Writing Program. His first film, The Four Corners of Nowhere, premiered at Sundance Film Festival. Follow Stephen on Twitter @StephenChbosky.