Reviewed by Sam@WLABB on
The title of this book eludes to advice the author was given as a small child, that in order to be loved, he had to hide his true self. Reading that broke my heart in half, and so did many parts of this book. This book is about abuse as well as homophobia and is quite painful at times, so be prepared for a little darkness and a bit of weeping.
•Pro: I cared so much for Evan. I was incredibly amazed by how he was able to have any shred of decency left in him after the years of abuse heaped on him. I was so elated, when he was able to find the strength to escape the madness, and also, to love himself.
•Pro: As I was making my way through the story and a tear rolled down my cheek, I couldn't get the image of Faye Dunaway screaming about wire hangers out of my head. That is how well the monster-mother was written. [Note: if you have no idea what I am talking about, google Mommie Dearest.]
•Con: There were some small flow issues in the story and I would have liked a few of the characters to have been more fleshed out.
•Pro: Although part me was, "a little to little, a little too late" with the dad, I still appreciated the effort he put forth. He did make an attempt to foster a relationship with his son. I especially loved when they went for donuts. Those were some of the bright spots in the book.
•Pro: Another bright spot in the book was Henry. He was quite wonderful. He wore his heart on his sleeve and was quite the romantic. Most of all, he truly loved Evan and made him feel loved.
•Pro: Henry's family was also a great source of happiness for Evan, and I was happy they had been there in the years we didn't read about. I feel like they gave Evan hope, and in his situation, he needed to see that a family could be like that.
•Pro: In the author's note, we learn that this story is based on Surmelis' life, that was when I really starting crying. It's very brave to share a story like this, and I think there are many people, who will find comfort from this book, because it's their story too.
•Pro: The ending left me very hopeful. I was happy that Surmelis filled us in on Evan's present and hinted to his future.
Overall: A raw and sometimes painful look at the cycle of abuse and having to hide, who you are in order to please others. I found myself longing for Evan to find the love, safety, and freedom to be his true self.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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Reading updates
- Started reading
- 13 January, 2018: Finished reading
- 13 January, 2018: Reviewed