Cristy Watson

"That's when I become invisible. That's when my blade and I become best pals."

I'm so disappointed with this one. This story, I felt, was much better than the others in the series. It dealt with real world problems - maybe in an old fashion way of bullying - but one that I think is still around today.

However, this one offers no solution or information. There isn't a warning, a referral for what to do if you or someone you know cuts nor did it end with a solution - either for the parents or show more for the kid. It's the worst case of a bad situation that never gets better and you are left wondering how it all works itself out. For a reluctant or YA reader, I'd hate to leave them feeling so sad and alone. show less

[I received a free digital edition from NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review]

“Cutter Boy” is a book that went straight to my heart. I admit I was scared to read it because the emotions it contains hidden behind the pages are overwhelming. This can be the story of a teenager in our days, the message is not to judge, but to understand and just be there for when they are ready to share a burden.

Travis has had a poor relationship, or better, has had very few interactions with his show more parents. He doesn’t understand why he is ignored by them; he struggles for their attention but doesn’t receive any reaction. In a life that is voided of any feelings, he resumes to self-inflicted pain using a razor blade. His bullying at school doesn’t help much either. Still, when a new girl comes to his school, he feels a strong attraction and finds a courage he did not know he possessed. With help from one of his teachers and his new friend he enters a world of possibilities and discovers a new way to express his feelings.

I fell I am not well prepared emotionally, nor my mind is mature enough to judge this enormous amount of feelings. Still I must agree to the author’s dedication lines and even state that this book should be a must for teachers, friends and parents. We are all influenced by what happens around us, there are events that shape us in more ways that we can imagine. A child or teenager is even more susceptible and the effects can be even more dramatic.

To the end of the book, the reader will understand the motive behind his parents’ attitude. This will be a turning point for Travis and his family. To be honest, I see him as a hero. Yes, he is a hero! Because in the end he is stronger than those who should be (for him). He is strong and wise enough to enter the world of true artists and understand its enormous power.

I feel the need to write more, but my words are small in comparison to the way “Cutter Boy” made me feel. I am now rich, with joy, gratitude towards the author for sharing this story with us small readers and I feel less superficial as a human being. Thank you! show less

Note: I have gotten the e-ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange of my point of view.

It's honest, real and straightforward. Though a little creepy, it is an enjoyable read with a thoughtful insight into the mind of a self-inflicted cutter.

Cristy truly captured it all like the emotions not only from Travis but his parents as well, especially his mom still in denial stage. Well written and straightforward. A recommended light read for such a heavy issue.

You can read my full review show more here:
http://www.sholee.net/2016/03/mpov-cutter-boy-e-arc.html show less

Travis is in trouble. He has no one to turn to when he is bullied and harassed, so he cuts himself for relief from the emotional pain that has become his constant companion. Travis meets Chyvonne, an athletic, self-assured black girl who befriends him. Having a relationship with Chyvonne produces new sources of anxiety, however, and Travis must decide whether he has the strength to confront his fear and isolation at last.

I found this book difficult to read. The narration reads earnestly, show more verging at times close to didacticism. The high degree of drama in CUTTER BOY may appeal to readers who like problem fiction, and the topic is regrettably relevant to many adolescents.

Read my complete review in RESOURCE LINKS 21.5 (June 2016). show less