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Cutter Boy
Bullied at school and ignored at home, Travis has a secret: cutting himself with a razor blade is the only thing that lets him control the pain in his life and find some peace. When he becomes friends with Chyvonne, a new girl at school, he doesn't know how to get close to her without revealing his secret and making himself even more vulnerable. Spending time with Chyvonne spurs Travis to try to discover why his mother can't seem to face his very existence. It's only when he learns about the art form of paper cutting that he realizes there might be other ways to make himself feel adrenalin-fueled and in control.
Although self-harm through cutting is a problem usually associated with teenage girls, many young men are involved in different sorts of self-injury. This story explores a teenager's motivations for cutting and the options for overcoming the need to self-injure.
Although self-harm through cutting is a problem usually associated with teenage girls, many young men are involved in different sorts of self-injury. This story explores a teenager's motivations for cutting and the options for overcoming the need to self-injure.
176 pages, Paperback
Published February 12, 2016
4 people are currently reading
759 people want to read
About the author
Cristy Watson
10 books84 followersI am a retired teacher and writer living in Calgary, Alberta. Since retiring I have grown the writer part of my life and now edit and mentor authors, as well as offering writing workshops. Along with eight published novels, my poetry appears in anthologies and online. Thanks for visiting my page!
Check out my author Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/watsoncristy
And my new YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD76...
Check out my author Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/watsoncristy
And my new YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD76...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 10, 2016
February is really my month. I'm so glad the books I've been reading lately are worth devouring and crying for. Tonight, I just finished Cutter Boy and oh my gosh, it blew me away.
Bullied constantly at school and ignored by his mom all throughout his life, Travis found solace, adrenaline, satisfaction and peace through bleeding. Hidden behind his mattress was a razor-sharp blade which he slide and cut on various parts of his body - wrists, arms, shoulders and thighs. Travis was a mess, ridiculed, unwanted.
Travis was a cutter boy. And boy, what an excruciating pain he must have been living in.
When new girl, Haitian-Canadian Chyvonne became his partner in English and companion in PE, Travis' life took on a new spin. She made him smile, grin, cook Meatballs and mashed potatoes and look forward to the next day at school. And soon he found an alternate way to cut out his frustrations. He became a paper artist. He was able to channel his anger through paper cutting and became a significant mess.
But his mom still didn't talk to him nor even tried to get near him. He was like a plague, a virus, a disease she never wanted to encounter or get in contact with.
I was really so absorbed in Travis' life and struggles that I didn't realize I was able to finish this book in about an hour. I couldn't help but cringe every time Travis cut his skin with a sharp blade. I get hurt when he hurts himself. I get hurt when the bullies punch him in the face. I get hurt when he sees his friend talking to the enemy. I get hurt when his own mother can't even look at him but she can be very charismatic when his son's girlfriend talks to her. I get hurt for him.
This book is an eye opener. First, I didn't realize guys could do such thing as cutting themselves. With girls, I have encountered many circumstances where this had happened. But rarely in guys.
Second, I was blown away about the people who use blades and paper to create a masterpiece. 'Tis my first time to learn about Beatrice Coron and her paper cut designs. I even googled all the paper artists mentioned in the book. They were all astounding!
And lastly, I didn't know there are people who resorted to not giving a damn or plainly ignoring their own family members because they are incapable of coping.
Cutter Boy is a powerful book. Cristy Watson wrote a story that felt like a knife twisting your guts until you could no longer feel anything. I was emotionally unprepared with this kind of pain. I felt tortured, yes, but in the end, I was able to breathe.
Bullied constantly at school and ignored by his mom all throughout his life, Travis found solace, adrenaline, satisfaction and peace through bleeding. Hidden behind his mattress was a razor-sharp blade which he slide and cut on various parts of his body - wrists, arms, shoulders and thighs. Travis was a mess, ridiculed, unwanted.
Travis was a cutter boy. And boy, what an excruciating pain he must have been living in.
When new girl, Haitian-Canadian Chyvonne became his partner in English and companion in PE, Travis' life took on a new spin. She made him smile, grin, cook Meatballs and mashed potatoes and look forward to the next day at school. And soon he found an alternate way to cut out his frustrations. He became a paper artist. He was able to channel his anger through paper cutting and became a significant mess.
But his mom still didn't talk to him nor even tried to get near him. He was like a plague, a virus, a disease she never wanted to encounter or get in contact with.
I was really so absorbed in Travis' life and struggles that I didn't realize I was able to finish this book in about an hour. I couldn't help but cringe every time Travis cut his skin with a sharp blade. I get hurt when he hurts himself. I get hurt when the bullies punch him in the face. I get hurt when he sees his friend talking to the enemy. I get hurt when his own mother can't even look at him but she can be very charismatic when his son's girlfriend talks to her. I get hurt for him.
This book is an eye opener. First, I didn't realize guys could do such thing as cutting themselves. With girls, I have encountered many circumstances where this had happened. But rarely in guys.
Second, I was blown away about the people who use blades and paper to create a masterpiece. 'Tis my first time to learn about Beatrice Coron and her paper cut designs. I even googled all the paper artists mentioned in the book. They were all astounding!
And lastly, I didn't know there are people who resorted to not giving a damn or plainly ignoring their own family members because they are incapable of coping.
Cutter Boy is a powerful book. Cristy Watson wrote a story that felt like a knife twisting your guts until you could no longer feel anything. I was emotionally unprepared with this kind of pain. I felt tortured, yes, but in the end, I was able to breathe.
March 5, 2019
"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 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.
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 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.
January 19, 2016
NetGalley provided a copy of the ePub in exchange for an honest review.
Cristy Watson’s Cutter Boy is a touching young adult read for reluctant readers. The story will appeal to a wide audience and will certainly lend itself to discussion.
Travis is a young man in pain and masks his pain in self-harm—he is a cutter living an isolated world at home and at school. His lonely world changes when he meets Chyvonne. She is new to his school, a positive force and confident in her own skin. The author explores many issues with sensitivity including but not limited to self-harm, bullying, dysfunctional families, mental illness, rape, trauma, and post traumatic stress disorder to name a few. Can Travis move forward and confront his issues with the help of a trusted friend?
Cristy Watson’s Cutter Boy is a touching young adult read for reluctant readers. The story will appeal to a wide audience and will certainly lend itself to discussion.
Travis is a young man in pain and masks his pain in self-harm—he is a cutter living an isolated world at home and at school. His lonely world changes when he meets Chyvonne. She is new to his school, a positive force and confident in her own skin. The author explores many issues with sensitivity including but not limited to self-harm, bullying, dysfunctional families, mental illness, rape, trauma, and post traumatic stress disorder to name a few. Can Travis move forward and confront his issues with the help of a trusted friend?
January 26, 2016
Source: This book is marked as read now on Netgalley.
Cost: Free
Title: Cutter Boy
Series: Sidestreets
Author: Cristy Watson
Overall Rating: 4 stars
A full review of this book will be up on thursday on my blog!
This book is based on the issue of self harm, if that is trigger for you, I'd be wary of this book as it is the main theme.
This book tackles self harm in such an eloquent way for 179 pages. It doesn't glamourise it, it doesn't sugar coat it, it puts it as it is. It also shows that there is the possibility of having a release to it. That self harm isn't the only answer or option.
I really enjoyed this book, and I really hope to read more.
Cost: Free
Title: Cutter Boy
Series: Sidestreets
Author: Cristy Watson
Overall Rating: 4 stars
A full review of this book will be up on thursday on my blog!
This book is based on the issue of self harm, if that is trigger for you, I'd be wary of this book as it is the main theme.
This book tackles self harm in such an eloquent way for 179 pages. It doesn't glamourise it, it doesn't sugar coat it, it puts it as it is. It also shows that there is the possibility of having a release to it. That self harm isn't the only answer or option.
I really enjoyed this book, and I really hope to read more.
June 6, 2016
Cutter Boy has a lot of premise but doesn't follow through on all the things it promises to deliver.
Cutter boy is the story of Travis, a boy who is bullied at school and ignored at home. His sisters have gone to college and his Mum and Dad are there but ignore him as they have there own problems to face.
Travis finds himself making fast friends with Chevonne a Haitian-Canadian that has just moved to his school. All the time Travis is suffering with Self Harm and is using this as an escape, an escape and a release from his confusing and stressful situation. Chevonne is his first friend he's had that we hear about he is forced to open up and see's that it helps.
This story is very quick it took me all up an hour and a bit to read. I felt because it was so quick I couldn't LOVE the story or characters. I've never read a book centering around self harm that is fictional. I've read a lot of true story self harm books and Cutter Boy was very accurate in the descriptions of why people can self harm and the feeling it brings but and there's always a but, it felt like only half a story, the ending was rushed, predictable, and non conclusive.
This story more seems like a book written to please the markets needs:
Boy that self harms, Person of Colour, bullying, family troubles, teacher involvement... Yes it has all the themes YA is lacking but it didn't do them justice. The themes were presented to us but not fully explored and this was a disappointment, I want a book that makes me feel and connect not one that delivers the facts, I know the facts I want to read about the struggle of the underdog not the surface of whats going on.
If your looking for a book about Self Harm and the lengths people go to get better I recommend Scarred this book has made me cry and feel so connected to the MC upon every re-read and is both horrible, sad, and truthful.
Cutter boy was in no way a bad read, it just wasn't anything special for me.
If your looking for a quick read and are intrigued by the synopsis then go ahead and get this as I said it will only take you an hour to get through and you may enjoy it more then I did :)
Thank you to netgalley and the publishes for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Cutter boy is the story of Travis, a boy who is bullied at school and ignored at home. His sisters have gone to college and his Mum and Dad are there but ignore him as they have there own problems to face.
Travis finds himself making fast friends with Chevonne a Haitian-Canadian that has just moved to his school. All the time Travis is suffering with Self Harm and is using this as an escape, an escape and a release from his confusing and stressful situation. Chevonne is his first friend he's had that we hear about he is forced to open up and see's that it helps.
This story is very quick it took me all up an hour and a bit to read. I felt because it was so quick I couldn't LOVE the story or characters. I've never read a book centering around self harm that is fictional. I've read a lot of true story self harm books and Cutter Boy was very accurate in the descriptions of why people can self harm and the feeling it brings but and there's always a but, it felt like only half a story, the ending was rushed, predictable, and non conclusive.
This story more seems like a book written to please the markets needs:
Boy that self harms, Person of Colour, bullying, family troubles, teacher involvement... Yes it has all the themes YA is lacking but it didn't do them justice. The themes were presented to us but not fully explored and this was a disappointment, I want a book that makes me feel and connect not one that delivers the facts, I know the facts I want to read about the struggle of the underdog not the surface of whats going on.
If your looking for a book about Self Harm and the lengths people go to get better I recommend Scarred this book has made me cry and feel so connected to the MC upon every re-read and is both horrible, sad, and truthful.
Cutter boy was in no way a bad read, it just wasn't anything special for me.
If your looking for a quick read and are intrigued by the synopsis then go ahead and get this as I said it will only take you an hour to get through and you may enjoy it more then I did :)
Thank you to netgalley and the publishes for allowing me to read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2016
4 stars!!
I first thought Cutter boy would be centered on the relationship between the male lead "Travis" and the girl "Chyvonne" and that's why I picked it up, but turns out it's a little bit of everything in there. The author describes his relationship with his family and schoolmates, his recent interest in Chyvonne and also his way of coping with all the drama in his life. Despite the fact that my motive to read this book was the love story, which wasn't developed much, I finished it in 3 hours, because the whole story in general was intriguing. I reccommend it!!!
I recieved this book for free on netgalley in exchange for an honest review!!
I first thought Cutter boy would be centered on the relationship between the male lead "Travis" and the girl "Chyvonne" and that's why I picked it up, but turns out it's a little bit of everything in there. The author describes his relationship with his family and schoolmates, his recent interest in Chyvonne and also his way of coping with all the drama in his life. Despite the fact that my motive to read this book was the love story, which wasn't developed much, I finished it in 3 hours, because the whole story in general was intriguing. I reccommend it!!!
I recieved this book for free on netgalley in exchange for an honest review!!
November 30, 2016
This was a chilling story for me. While I'm well aware that girls aren't the only ones that self-harm, I've never read a book where it was the boy doing it, much less have ever seen a movie that focused on the guy self-mutilating. Speaking of movies, this story reminded me a lot of one that I saw on Lifetime a while back. Same topic, but opposite sex. And the girl had family issues as well, especially with the mom. I tried to figure out from the beginning why Travis' mom was like that with him, thinking that perhaps he wasn't her biological son or that she had cheated on her husband and his father wasn't his real father. In the end, it was a lot more complicated and sad, but it also didn't take long for me to pick up on the truth. Her erratic behavior solved that mystery for me.
As for Travis, he had a lot that he was dealing with and it all piled up on the inside, so much so that cutting was an emotional escape. I don't understand a lot about this topic, but from reading this story I got the sense that self-harm was the character's way of dealing. It just made me cringe every time a scene popped up where he was doing it because the description was good and it gave me a vivid picture. And while I loved that he found another way to release his bottled up pain through art, I still wish that he'd get the help he needed, as well as his parents. The whole family needed therapy.
Overall, good story with a frightening topic that needs to be addressed more frequently and deserves a lot of awareness. Thanks to the author for taking it on in such a way that it left quite an emotional impact on me.
As for Travis, he had a lot that he was dealing with and it all piled up on the inside, so much so that cutting was an emotional escape. I don't understand a lot about this topic, but from reading this story I got the sense that self-harm was the character's way of dealing. It just made me cringe every time a scene popped up where he was doing it because the description was good and it gave me a vivid picture. And while I loved that he found another way to release his bottled up pain through art, I still wish that he'd get the help he needed, as well as his parents. The whole family needed therapy.
Overall, good story with a frightening topic that needs to be addressed more frequently and deserves a lot of awareness. Thanks to the author for taking it on in such a way that it left quite an emotional impact on me.
August 24, 2016
A teenage boy loses himself with the cutting of self-harm. Lonely and feeling depressed, he does not plan for his future. The self-harm method is all he really has. His family a crazed mess, unhealing, a desperate open wound.
Until a girl runs into his life. The new girl wants to be on the basketball team, she doesn't care that everyone looks at her strangely, as she becomes this teenage boy's friend.
The teenage boy decides to offer a option to the new girl. And the girl takes the option with pride. She changes his world and he changes hers as well.
As well as the art in the classroom takes affect to this teenage boy. He later on discovers that he no longer wants to hurt himself. Bullies and self-harm are a fight to survival.
I really enjoyed the story of how it went. It felt really real. I couldn't stop reading it. I wanted to continue on with the story. But I am glad I stopped because then I would have missed the show on TV that I wanted to watch.
The story to this book, had a powerful meaning to it. I felt like nearly crying.
I want to pick up many of this author's other works.
I highly recommend this book!!!!!!!!
(thanks to Netgalley for sending me this ebook)
Until a girl runs into his life. The new girl wants to be on the basketball team, she doesn't care that everyone looks at her strangely, as she becomes this teenage boy's friend.
The teenage boy decides to offer a option to the new girl. And the girl takes the option with pride. She changes his world and he changes hers as well.
As well as the art in the classroom takes affect to this teenage boy. He later on discovers that he no longer wants to hurt himself. Bullies and self-harm are a fight to survival.
I really enjoyed the story of how it went. It felt really real. I couldn't stop reading it. I wanted to continue on with the story. But I am glad I stopped because then I would have missed the show on TV that I wanted to watch.
The story to this book, had a powerful meaning to it. I felt like nearly crying.
I want to pick up many of this author's other works.
I highly recommend this book!!!!!!!!
(thanks to Netgalley for sending me this ebook)
January 20, 2016
Here's the harsh truth about writing self-harm books: It's damn hard. It's almost impossible to create a believable character with real problems and a real life, because all you want to focus on is your character's choice of self harming method and the action itself. I've consumed a lot of media on the subject and I don't remember coming across a good book that focuses on the character and the story first, instead of telling us all about how the main character is, say, burning themselves.
Also, another thing that makes writing fiction on self harming hard is, most of them are written as self-help books, originally. There is this self-harming person who finds someone who loves them, which cures enough of their problems, and now that they're happy, they start hurting themselves. Joy. Real life isn't like that, folks.
I think that's enough to explain why I have the book 1/5. This is the story of Travis the cutter, not Travis the person. Make it about him ans then we'll talk.
Also, another thing that makes writing fiction on self harming hard is, most of them are written as self-help books, originally. There is this self-harming person who finds someone who loves them, which cures enough of their problems, and now that they're happy, they start hurting themselves. Joy. Real life isn't like that, folks.
I think that's enough to explain why I have the book 1/5. This is the story of Travis the cutter, not Travis the person. Make it about him ans then we'll talk.
June 16, 2017
Travis deals with the emotional pain from his school and family issues by cutting. However, a new friend plus the recommendations of a long-term substitute teacher help him find an outlet through art instead.
Unrealistic friendship plus mad art skills heretofore unknown made this a less than satisfying read.
Better book on this topic is "Cut" by Patricia McCormick. I did like that the protagonist was a boy, however.
Unrealistic friendship plus mad art skills heretofore unknown made this a less than satisfying read.
Better book on this topic is "Cut" by Patricia McCormick. I did like that the protagonist was a boy, however.
June 19, 2017
One of the most breathtakingly honest stories I have ever come across.
September 20, 2016
I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Stunning.
I usually find these reads ultimately depressing because they tend to feel so negative. Cutter Boy by Cristy Watson didn’t feel like other books. It brought to light the very real feeling someone goes through. It’s stunning. The way the author goes about unfolding the story is stunning...
I was so focused on Travis and his story that the ending was utterly heart wrenching.
Travis is bullied at school. He’s ignored at home. He found one way to control something in his life and that was pain- to cause his own pain in which he is the creator of his own feelings. He comes to know the school’s new girl, Chyvonne. She’s pretty outgoing compared to Travis and his introvert nature. He wants to have a friend. Although, he’s terrified that she’ll find out what he does, what he feels.
Such pain. Those who are gifted to feel deeply suffer. Most need outlets, they need some way to express themselves in a freeing way. This is where cutting usually partakes, but Travis has met a teacher who introduces him into a new method-paper cutting.
Through this art form of paper cutting and the new girl in school, Travis is on a hunt to find himself. To find out why his life is the way it is. To figure out why his mother can’t look at him.
Details, heart crushing details of the past surface and eventually Travis has answers…
Get ready for the truest read you’ve yet to experience in a while. This book opened my heart. It held it in its pages and let me experience everything- good and bad. I lived this story. I’ve felt Travis’ feelings. I’ve felt his heartache. I’ve felt his cuts. I’ve felt his pain.
In reality I’ve experienced the same pain Travis and his mother have felt, and to read something so accurate is both so painful and so freeing.
This book, while not very long, is worth the read. Take time to feel. Take time to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Give your heart to this book and you won’t be disappointed.
Cristy Watson...stunning work. Absolutely, heartwrenchingly stunning. A strong 5/5 stars and an ultimate suggested read.
May 27, 2019
[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 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!
“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 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!
November 20, 2016
This book was such a excellent book! I was amazed at how much I was drawn into the story. I literally read it every spare minute I had! I had of course heard of teens who were "cutters" and had even seen some specials on TV about it but I never truly "got it" until I read this book.
The author did an amazing job of describing all the emotions that Travis was feeling... what it was like for him at home and also what it was like for him at school. As a reader you could truly feel the pain that Travis was in that caused him to cut in the first place. I didn't realize how much the cutting helps to take the pain away that they are feeling nor the peace that follows the cutting. It truly is pretty amazing the relief they feel, granted though it's only temporary, very temporary until something causes that need to rise up again and they just can't help themselves...they have to cut.
I urge all to read this book, especially parents and all who interact with youth. You may discover some child who you would never have expected of cutting themselves doing just that. Look for the signs, they always wear long sleeves or pants, They might be kids who are being bullied or who just seem to be loners.
Please try to reach out because they find it very hard to reach out themselves to ask for help but don't show any shock or look as if you are judging them. They are ashamed, embarrassed, even afraid of further rejection, and afraid of being seen as "weird". I know I will always be aware now of what to look for and I will try to extend my hand to help them.
I know this will be a book that I will re-read and I also want to look up more information about the art form of paper cutting and the specific artist mentioned in the book. I really hope the artist is an actual person because I would love to see examples of their work! If the artist is not an actual person then the author did an excellent job with them also!
I look forward to reading more books by this very talented YA author!!!
***I received this book through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own honest opinion of this book.
The author did an amazing job of describing all the emotions that Travis was feeling... what it was like for him at home and also what it was like for him at school. As a reader you could truly feel the pain that Travis was in that caused him to cut in the first place. I didn't realize how much the cutting helps to take the pain away that they are feeling nor the peace that follows the cutting. It truly is pretty amazing the relief they feel, granted though it's only temporary, very temporary until something causes that need to rise up again and they just can't help themselves...they have to cut.
I urge all to read this book, especially parents and all who interact with youth. You may discover some child who you would never have expected of cutting themselves doing just that. Look for the signs, they always wear long sleeves or pants, They might be kids who are being bullied or who just seem to be loners.
Please try to reach out because they find it very hard to reach out themselves to ask for help but don't show any shock or look as if you are judging them. They are ashamed, embarrassed, even afraid of further rejection, and afraid of being seen as "weird". I know I will always be aware now of what to look for and I will try to extend my hand to help them.
I know this will be a book that I will re-read and I also want to look up more information about the art form of paper cutting and the specific artist mentioned in the book. I really hope the artist is an actual person because I would love to see examples of their work! If the artist is not an actual person then the author did an excellent job with them also!
I look forward to reading more books by this very talented YA author!!!
***I received this book through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own honest opinion of this book.
May 3, 2016
I received this book VIA NG in return for an honest review.
***TRIGGERS!!! TRIGGERS!!! TRIGGERS!!!***
This book has cutting/self harm triggers.
What the ever loving crap. man!! What the what!!
*takes a deep breath to try to chill out*
Okay, no. Seriously. what the hell was that?
This book was so freaking awesome! And the fact it is 3am now, I can say once you start this book, you won't want to put it down.
I love the flow of the story and it makes you really open your eyes that people go through this. GUYS GO THROUGH THIS! Not just girls. but it is so rare you hear about a guy cutting, so they just get lost. This book really shines a light on that.
Now what made me mad about this book.... For one, there wasn't really a "section off" for when a new scene popped up, so you kinda have to sit there rereading for a second to realize "oh! he's hone from school now!" or "oh! he's at school now!".... but mainly what really made me mad was there was no help for him in the end. As a reader, I didn't get closure. Sure, the mom gets help, but does he? I love he has a hobby he can focus on and take his pain out on, but I kinda wish he would have reached out more or something. SOMETHING to let me know he will be okay and that he plans to start his fight to stop.......which makes me question, does he? does he even WANT to?
I get the whole "you can't help those who don't want help." But I'm left questioning if he wants help? I know he doesn't want to feel invisible anymore and wants the bullying to stop.
Just. So. Many. QUESTIONS. And. No. ANSWERS! GRRR!!!!
Which makes this book feel so incomplete.
That ending made me want to throw my book across the room. The ending pissed me off and left me feeling like it was unfair. For him AND myself as a reader.
I loved this book yet wanted so much more from it.
I guess you can say Cutter Boy is a bitter sweet story.
***TRIGGERS!!! TRIGGERS!!! TRIGGERS!!!***
This book has cutting/self harm triggers.
What the ever loving crap. man!! What the what!!
*takes a deep breath to try to chill out*
Okay, no. Seriously. what the hell was that?
This book was so freaking awesome! And the fact it is 3am now, I can say once you start this book, you won't want to put it down.
I love the flow of the story and it makes you really open your eyes that people go through this. GUYS GO THROUGH THIS! Not just girls. but it is so rare you hear about a guy cutting, so they just get lost. This book really shines a light on that.
Now what made me mad about this book.... For one, there wasn't really a "section off" for when a new scene popped up, so you kinda have to sit there rereading for a second to realize "oh! he's hone from school now!" or "oh! he's at school now!".... but mainly what really made me mad was there was no help for him in the end. As a reader, I didn't get closure. Sure, the mom gets help, but does he? I love he has a hobby he can focus on and take his pain out on, but I kinda wish he would have reached out more or something. SOMETHING to let me know he will be okay and that he plans to start his fight to stop.......which makes me question, does he? does he even WANT to?
I get the whole "you can't help those who don't want help." But I'm left questioning if he wants help? I know he doesn't want to feel invisible anymore and wants the bullying to stop.
Just. So. Many. QUESTIONS. And. No. ANSWERS! GRRR!!!!
Which makes this book feel so incomplete.
That ending made me want to throw my book across the room. The ending pissed me off and left me feeling like it was unfair. For him AND myself as a reader.
I loved this book yet wanted so much more from it.
I guess you can say Cutter Boy is a bitter sweet story.
August 22, 2016
Travis is going through a difficult time in his life. His sisters have left for college leaving him alone with his parents.. When his parents and he sit down to dinner, it is different now. His parents won't look or talk to him. He doesn't understand why, but he does know that it hurts him. Being bullied at school doesn't give Travis any self confidence. However one day at school he gets a substitute teacher that changes his life. You see Travis would often go home directly to his room, lock the door and cut himself. Why? At school, his teacher has Travis and the new girl Chyvonne work on a project together. They are to pick one of the many art pictures and write a story about it. Travis is introduced to a style of known as paper cutting. The teacher gives him the special paper he needs to be able to try doing this type of artwork. He goes home to find that doing the paper cutting art is a great way to release his emotions. Chyvonne discovers Travis's secret of cutting himself. She doesn't know what to say. Why? Will Chyvonne still be his friend? Will his parents ever speak to him?
A novel about a boy cutting himself is an unusual story to say the least as girls are more known for doing this. I like that the author decided to use a boy and subject of cutting himself . It is such a difficult subject to discuss. Due to excellent writing style of the author, I felt his pain which I think everyone will feel when they read this novel. Many other subjects are also in this novel, bullying, feeling alone and more. I recommend kids and parents if not all adults read this novel. It will help those who don't cut themselves to see why self-cutters are "in that space."
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
A novel about a boy cutting himself is an unusual story to say the least as girls are more known for doing this. I like that the author decided to use a boy and subject of cutting himself . It is such a difficult subject to discuss. Due to excellent writing style of the author, I felt his pain which I think everyone will feel when they read this novel. Many other subjects are also in this novel, bullying, feeling alone and more. I recommend kids and parents if not all adults read this novel. It will help those who don't cut themselves to see why self-cutters are "in that space."
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
July 30, 2016
TRIGGER WARNING: Mental Illness and Self Harm.
I received Cutter Boy from NetGalley and Lorimer for exchange for an honest review.
Travis is a boy who is bullied at school and ignored at home by his parents and the only way that he can cope is by harming himself. When Chyvonne comes into his life he tries to hide his secret from her but he feels himself getting closer and closer to her. Chyvonne brings out a new life in Travis, he finally can be happy at times. When Travis learns the new art of paper cutting he realises that there are other ways to cope without harming himself.
This was a truly heartbreaking story. Travis is a character which is so broken and I just wanted to reach into the pages and give him a hug and tell him that everything would be okay. In some aspects of his personality I could relate to him. Luckily Chyvonne comes into his life just when he needs it most. She is such a lovable character.
Travis’s story was so emotional and absorbing. I was understanding his life and the struggles that he has been through. I felt as though I needed to protect him and I found myself crying many times with him and for him. This book opened my eyes on why some people self-harm. I learnt many things from this book.
This book is powerful and it is sad. I urge you to read it, but please be warned that it is triggering.
REVIEW ALSO FEATURES ON https://loadsofbooksreviews.wordpress...
I received Cutter Boy from NetGalley and Lorimer for exchange for an honest review.
Travis is a boy who is bullied at school and ignored at home by his parents and the only way that he can cope is by harming himself. When Chyvonne comes into his life he tries to hide his secret from her but he feels himself getting closer and closer to her. Chyvonne brings out a new life in Travis, he finally can be happy at times. When Travis learns the new art of paper cutting he realises that there are other ways to cope without harming himself.
This was a truly heartbreaking story. Travis is a character which is so broken and I just wanted to reach into the pages and give him a hug and tell him that everything would be okay. In some aspects of his personality I could relate to him. Luckily Chyvonne comes into his life just when he needs it most. She is such a lovable character.
Travis’s story was so emotional and absorbing. I was understanding his life and the struggles that he has been through. I felt as though I needed to protect him and I found myself crying many times with him and for him. This book opened my eyes on why some people self-harm. I learnt many things from this book.
This book is powerful and it is sad. I urge you to read it, but please be warned that it is triggering.
REVIEW ALSO FEATURES ON https://loadsofbooksreviews.wordpress...
January 12, 2022
To see more reviews check out MI Book Reviews.
The author donated a copy of this book to the jail where I volunteer. I was reading it as part of the vetting process, but I had really strong feelings.
I am a cutter or more accurately I hurt myself. I am a twenty-seven year old trans man that has cut myself to deal with my life and my emotions. I have not cut in about a decade, but there are times I still tempted. There are times when I see things that I used to use to hurt myself that make my stomach knot up and I can feel myself wanting to cut more than I have ever wanted anything in my life. It wasn’t always cutting. Sometimes it was stabbing myself with broken pens, leaving large bruises. I feel like I need to be clear about my past and where I am when I talk about this story.
There are graphic passages of cutting. They really sunk in for me. They brought me back to when cutting and hurting myself was the only way I felt I could handle my life. If you are more fresh in your journey of trying to stop injuring yourself, then this book might be triggering. I felt the tug of wanting to cut reading the first few chapters. They are very convincing and so authentic feeling that I have a feeling that Watson knows more about this subject than I hope anyone does.
There were some parts of this book that really worked for me. The idea that sometimes coping skills come from unexpected sources really was nice. I loved that Travis found something that changed the way he was seeing the razor blades he was using. They changed their target with that change of view. This was so beautifully written and described that I wish I could have had this moment in my journey. Some of the things I used to harm myself with are part of the art I create, but there meaning hasn’t changed for me. I have to avoid my art when I start being tempted again. The way that he started to see that he was not the reason everything was terrible. That there was a whole world outside of him that he was unaware of. There were a lot of complicated feelings that others weren’t dealing with so he blamed himself. I know what Travis is feeling, it is so easy to blame yourself for what is happening when you are already convinced that no one loves you. It was so moving and powerful. The idea that others are having issues that aren’t about you is so hard to grasp when you are in the mind-set of a depressed teenager (some adults really don’t have it figured out either to be fair). This was a huge plot in the book and was shown through multiple characters. It was really one of the biggest parts of the book I liked.
I loved that the main character was a boy who was cutting. Every other representation of people hurting themselves that I have seen, except maybe a hand full has been about teenage girls. The choice to have a straight male character at that cutting was really good. It will reach the boys that thing they are alone.
There are some really big red flags in this book. Finding a relationship will not stop someone from wanting to cut. It just won’t. That is fairy tale thinking and is really dangerous. I like that Watson seemed to understand that and skirted around it a bit. Chyvonne even says that she can’t help Travis and that he should talk to someone who can actually help. Chyvonne is clear that she is not going to be what saves him, but there were a few lines that just opened the whole situation up for Chyvonne to blame herself if Travis cuts again. Stopping cutting is hard. It is one of the hardest things I have ever done and even a decade later, I am still tempted. This book makes cutting seem like it is something that is easy to give up if you just find that thing that makes you happy. There is some discussion of Travis wanting to cut again, but he goes to the paper cutting before he uses the razor on himself. That is a level of self-control I didn’t have when I was trying to stop. It seems unrealistic and idealistic from what I have experienced personally and what I have seen the people around me go through. I literally have a cutting sponsor (think like AA). I call or text her when I need help getting through a tough patch. Relapsing back into cutting happens. This book just felt like it told a fairy tale version of what cutting is like. I worry that someone who reads this might thing they can change the boy they like or the girl they like, that they can stop someone who is cutting with their love (long story, but it seems like this is a common enough thought process for teenagers as it is). I could see the nuances that Watson created, but I am afraid that a younger reader might not. The book does avoid romanticizing mental illness and romanticizing any of the negative things the book portrays, which is really difficult to do if the whole mess of YA books that seem to think that a suicidal girl is just super attractive are anything to go by.
I have been waffling between 3 and 4 stars for this book. It is hard to say this book is perfect because of the issues I had with the representation of stopping, but it is such an important story where so many parts are done so well. From what I have seen from Watson’s other work and how she emails with me, I have a feeling my issues would have been addressed if the book was longer. There is a word limit on this series of books, I believe in an attempt to not overwhelm reluctant readers. This book could have used those extra words to show that Travis had issues giving up cutting, but with support and his art he was doing his best. I can imagine a scene where he has entered his art into the school’s art show or into a community art show, where the teacher shows up and shows off Travis’s work to her art friends which just builds this strength into Travis. In an ideal world, he would have made a contact for a possible scholarship for an art school. Such a happy ending and one that was more realistic in regards to his cutting.
If you are an educator or know teens who are reading the book, open up the discussion. See what they got out of the book. Maybe my fears are unjustifiable and I am just sensitive considering how close I am to the story. That openness will make it more likely that if someone is ready to talk that they will talk to you. Some will never talk like me, but someone consistently open can make a huge difference (looking at my favorite teachers and librarians here).
The author donated a copy of this book to the jail where I volunteer. I was reading it as part of the vetting process, but I had really strong feelings.
I am a cutter or more accurately I hurt myself. I am a twenty-seven year old trans man that has cut myself to deal with my life and my emotions. I have not cut in about a decade, but there are times I still tempted. There are times when I see things that I used to use to hurt myself that make my stomach knot up and I can feel myself wanting to cut more than I have ever wanted anything in my life. It wasn’t always cutting. Sometimes it was stabbing myself with broken pens, leaving large bruises. I feel like I need to be clear about my past and where I am when I talk about this story.
There are graphic passages of cutting. They really sunk in for me. They brought me back to when cutting and hurting myself was the only way I felt I could handle my life. If you are more fresh in your journey of trying to stop injuring yourself, then this book might be triggering. I felt the tug of wanting to cut reading the first few chapters. They are very convincing and so authentic feeling that I have a feeling that Watson knows more about this subject than I hope anyone does.
There were some parts of this book that really worked for me. The idea that sometimes coping skills come from unexpected sources really was nice. I loved that Travis found something that changed the way he was seeing the razor blades he was using. They changed their target with that change of view. This was so beautifully written and described that I wish I could have had this moment in my journey. Some of the things I used to harm myself with are part of the art I create, but there meaning hasn’t changed for me. I have to avoid my art when I start being tempted again. The way that he started to see that he was not the reason everything was terrible. That there was a whole world outside of him that he was unaware of. There were a lot of complicated feelings that others weren’t dealing with so he blamed himself. I know what Travis is feeling, it is so easy to blame yourself for what is happening when you are already convinced that no one loves you. It was so moving and powerful. The idea that others are having issues that aren’t about you is so hard to grasp when you are in the mind-set of a depressed teenager (some adults really don’t have it figured out either to be fair). This was a huge plot in the book and was shown through multiple characters. It was really one of the biggest parts of the book I liked.
I loved that the main character was a boy who was cutting. Every other representation of people hurting themselves that I have seen, except maybe a hand full has been about teenage girls. The choice to have a straight male character at that cutting was really good. It will reach the boys that thing they are alone.
There are some really big red flags in this book. Finding a relationship will not stop someone from wanting to cut. It just won’t. That is fairy tale thinking and is really dangerous. I like that Watson seemed to understand that and skirted around it a bit. Chyvonne even says that she can’t help Travis and that he should talk to someone who can actually help. Chyvonne is clear that she is not going to be what saves him, but there were a few lines that just opened the whole situation up for Chyvonne to blame herself if Travis cuts again. Stopping cutting is hard. It is one of the hardest things I have ever done and even a decade later, I am still tempted. This book makes cutting seem like it is something that is easy to give up if you just find that thing that makes you happy. There is some discussion of Travis wanting to cut again, but he goes to the paper cutting before he uses the razor on himself. That is a level of self-control I didn’t have when I was trying to stop. It seems unrealistic and idealistic from what I have experienced personally and what I have seen the people around me go through. I literally have a cutting sponsor (think like AA). I call or text her when I need help getting through a tough patch. Relapsing back into cutting happens. This book just felt like it told a fairy tale version of what cutting is like. I worry that someone who reads this might thing they can change the boy they like or the girl they like, that they can stop someone who is cutting with their love (long story, but it seems like this is a common enough thought process for teenagers as it is). I could see the nuances that Watson created, but I am afraid that a younger reader might not. The book does avoid romanticizing mental illness and romanticizing any of the negative things the book portrays, which is really difficult to do if the whole mess of YA books that seem to think that a suicidal girl is just super attractive are anything to go by.
I have been waffling between 3 and 4 stars for this book. It is hard to say this book is perfect because of the issues I had with the representation of stopping, but it is such an important story where so many parts are done so well. From what I have seen from Watson’s other work and how she emails with me, I have a feeling my issues would have been addressed if the book was longer. There is a word limit on this series of books, I believe in an attempt to not overwhelm reluctant readers. This book could have used those extra words to show that Travis had issues giving up cutting, but with support and his art he was doing his best. I can imagine a scene where he has entered his art into the school’s art show or into a community art show, where the teacher shows up and shows off Travis’s work to her art friends which just builds this strength into Travis. In an ideal world, he would have made a contact for a possible scholarship for an art school. Such a happy ending and one that was more realistic in regards to his cutting.
If you are an educator or know teens who are reading the book, open up the discussion. See what they got out of the book. Maybe my fears are unjustifiable and I am just sensitive considering how close I am to the story. That openness will make it more likely that if someone is ready to talk that they will talk to you. Some will never talk like me, but someone consistently open can make a huge difference (looking at my favorite teachers and librarians here).
February 7, 2016
Wow! Just wow! This book is a great ya novel dealing with cutting - the why's, the emotions both before and after cutting, and the shame that a true cutter feels if/when they are discovered. It's intense and written in a way that does not glorify cutting, nor does it shame the cutter. I love that it's from a boy's perspective as it's usually girls who are focused on when it comes to this issue. I love that the people around him are the ones who inadvertently inspire him to find other outlets than cutting. This book shows how much of what we say or do as adults (and/or friends) impacts youth. I think that everyone who works with kids should read this book. Since it's ya it only took me about two and a half hours to read. While it's not full of facts or figures (it is fictional), it does provide insight to how the cutter is feeling and another method (art) to redirect the pain. I like that he's not instantly "fixed" but is inspired to work on the underlying issues and how the book comes full circle.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read for an honest review. This is definitely a great book for anyone who works with kids or teens struggling with these issues.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read for an honest review. This is definitely a great book for anyone who works with kids or teens struggling with these issues.
May 1, 2016
This book hit kinda close to home. The main theme is one that is very hard to talk about: self-harm. To this day, I still have a tough time talking about it, but I can not emphasize how important this topic is to talk about. Christy Watson brings up an even bigger point: boys and men get depressed too. Cutting tends to be thought of as a female thing, and I could go on with the different social analyses of why this is ignored, but honestly Ms. Watson does it very well in this book.
The book also discusses coping methods, which is just as important as the issue itself. Art is a very common and very helpful way. I found myself looking up the different artists that were mentioned and they are amazing!!
This book doesn’t make self-harm sound glamorous or heroic, there is no sugar-coating because Travis’ life has become his cutting. I think that’s a hard thing for people to understand is that cutting does take up a person’s mind completely to the point where there really isn’t anything else that matters to them. A tough book on a tough topic, 5 beans from me.
The book also discusses coping methods, which is just as important as the issue itself. Art is a very common and very helpful way. I found myself looking up the different artists that were mentioned and they are amazing!!
This book doesn’t make self-harm sound glamorous or heroic, there is no sugar-coating because Travis’ life has become his cutting. I think that’s a hard thing for people to understand is that cutting does take up a person’s mind completely to the point where there really isn’t anything else that matters to them. A tough book on a tough topic, 5 beans from me.
July 29, 2016
Travis is a guy who suffers from bullying at school and is being ignored by his parents at home. Unable to cope with his emotions unless he cuts himself, he is trapped on a vicious circle of self harm. He begans to see some light when he meets a new girl on the school, black and brave, with whom he strikes a fast friendship. There is also a teacher that introduces the class to paper cutting, something that Travis feels called to and seems to provide a good escape from his pain and fears.
The lesson from this book about cutting (reasons, seek help, embarassment for doing so) are quite good but the characters and plot feel quite archetypical: guy who suffers andcan't reach his parents for help, black girl, bullying, teacher who helps... it felt like... arranged, more like sth that had to be there than sth with its own place in the story, if that makes sense. Sort like to complete the vision offered by the book but without real weight.
The lesson from this book about cutting (reasons, seek help, embarassment for doing so) are quite good but the characters and plot feel quite archetypical: guy who suffers andcan't reach his parents for help, black girl, bullying, teacher who helps... it felt like... arranged, more like sth that had to be there than sth with its own place in the story, if that makes sense. Sort like to complete the vision offered by the book but without real weight.
January 22, 2016
This book was so sad. Not a ray of sunshine anywhere - except for maybe Chyvonne.
From the first second, you can feel the pain Travis is going through and true to the title, he is a cutter, which is interesting as I never really thought male's would be cutters.
Travis is bullied and his parents are not present, especially his mom and he can't figure out why. As the book progresses, Travis meets Chyvonne and they get close, which leads to the truth coming out.
I have to say, I did see this plot twist coming very early on - and I have to say that the "revealing" was somewhat anti climatic for me. I also think that the author did not really address the situation in a major way and kind of ducked out of giving us more.
The reason I give this book 4 stars is that it does an amazing job of putting us into Travis' head when it comes to anything associated with cutting.
From the first second, you can feel the pain Travis is going through and true to the title, he is a cutter, which is interesting as I never really thought male's would be cutters.
Travis is bullied and his parents are not present, especially his mom and he can't figure out why. As the book progresses, Travis meets Chyvonne and they get close, which leads to the truth coming out.
I have to say, I did see this plot twist coming very early on - and I have to say that the "revealing" was somewhat anti climatic for me. I also think that the author did not really address the situation in a major way and kind of ducked out of giving us more.
The reason I give this book 4 stars is that it does an amazing job of putting us into Travis' head when it comes to anything associated with cutting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2016
I was absolutely blown away by this book. It’s a relatively short read and the story moves quickly. It will suck you in and leave you thinking about it days, possibly weeks later. Dealing with tough issues such as bullying, depression, self-harm, negligent parents and dark family secrets, it still manages to shine a ray of light in the form of new friendships and a budding romance. The way Ms. Watson paints pictures with words is truly incredible. I can’t remember the last time I read a story that played out so vividly in my mind. I devoured this book in one sitting. I will definitely be reading more from this author!
* I was given a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
* I was given a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 1, 2016
Cutter Boy (Lorimer:Side Streets) by Christy Watson
Cutter Boy by Christy Watson is a great young adult read for struggling readers. The story centers around a boy who is sliding through life ignored and bullied. His way of dealing with the pain is to cut, a secret that no one knows about at least until Chyvonne moves to town. She has no preconceived notions about Travis and befriends him. Together they move forward Chyvonne to play basketball and Travis to learn to cut paper.
Excellent book!
Point of Interest: Women self injure more than male’s do according to statistics, but the population of male who self injure is growing. This behavior is contagious and is a coping mechanism with young people.
Cutter Boy by Christy Watson is a great young adult read for struggling readers. The story centers around a boy who is sliding through life ignored and bullied. His way of dealing with the pain is to cut, a secret that no one knows about at least until Chyvonne moves to town. She has no preconceived notions about Travis and befriends him. Together they move forward Chyvonne to play basketball and Travis to learn to cut paper.
Excellent book!
Point of Interest: Women self injure more than male’s do according to statistics, but the population of male who self injure is growing. This behavior is contagious and is a coping mechanism with young people.
January 17, 2016
Cutter Boy tackles the very current teenage problems of bullying, fitting in, and self-mutilation head on in a caring, thoughtful manner with well-developed characters and a fast-moving plot. This book should appeal to middle and high school students. Its low readability level (3.1) makes it accessible to a wide student population. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this to students. It should spark lively discussions in literature groups.
I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley.
March 22, 2016
Cutter boy is a very hard hitting short story. Within it we get to know Travis a young lad,- tormented at school, ignored at home, his only release is self harm. Luckily for him a girl comes into his life and with the help of a teacher he is able to turn himself around.
This book covers quite a few life issues to no person let alone a child should have to go through and I feel it is important to have books like this out there for both spreading awareness, understanding and self help.
I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
This book covers quite a few life issues to no person let alone a child should have to go through and I feel it is important to have books like this out there for both spreading awareness, understanding and self help.
I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
March 11, 2016
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 here:
http://www.sholee.net/2016/03/mpov-cu...
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 here:
http://www.sholee.net/2016/03/mpov-cu...
January 18, 2016
As a teacher of reluctant readers, I am always looking for lower lexile novels that will pique teenage interest. Cutter Boy deviates from the usual approach to YA novels on self-cutting by focusing on the mystery surrounding Travis's family. As the clues pile up, the audience will find themselves just as eager as the protagonist to get to the truth. Written entirely in first person, this is one book I would absolutely recommend to students and teachers.
Read via NetGalley.
Read via NetGalley.
July 21, 2016
Reading this really hit home for a few personal reasons with me. It's so wonderful and tragic to see a boy going through cutting himself just to find a shred of peace. Once you pick this up, you will finish it the same day. Oh, and have the tissues ready.
June 5, 2023
Great Read
I received a copy from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Actual Rating: 3.5
This was a beautiful read. The story deals with the topic of self-harm. I have had this on my Netgalley shelf for a while and now have finally read it. The story was about the main character, Travis and his struggle with self-harm. Travis was bullied at school and ignored at home. The book started off with the first time he started cutting when his twin sisters left for college/university. I thought the story was really good. I felt sorry for whatever Travis went through. I would not want that for anyone. I really loved that the art form of paper cutting helped him realize that there are different ways for him to feel in control and find some peace rather than self-harm. This story teaches us that there are options for overcoming the need to self-harm, we just need to find people in our lives that will help along the way. For Travis, I think the motivation to overcome the need to self-harm was when he became friends with Chyvonne. Overall, a great read.
I received a copy from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Actual Rating: 3.5
This was a beautiful read. The story deals with the topic of self-harm. I have had this on my Netgalley shelf for a while and now have finally read it. The story was about the main character, Travis and his struggle with self-harm. Travis was bullied at school and ignored at home. The book started off with the first time he started cutting when his twin sisters left for college/university. I thought the story was really good. I felt sorry for whatever Travis went through. I would not want that for anyone. I really loved that the art form of paper cutting helped him realize that there are different ways for him to feel in control and find some peace rather than self-harm. This story teaches us that there are options for overcoming the need to self-harm, we just need to find people in our lives that will help along the way. For Travis, I think the motivation to overcome the need to self-harm was when he became friends with Chyvonne. Overall, a great read.
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