Shari Gent answers “I'm really interested in reading this book...”

Taylor asked this question about A Little Life:

I'm really interested in reading this book but was wondering how graffic the scenes were? I just want to know what to expect before I start!

Shari Gent About half way through this book, I nearly put it down with disgust. It seemed to sensationalize the abuse of this young man. I felt like the telling …moreAbout half way through this book, I nearly put it down with disgust. It seemed to sensationalize the abuse of this young man. I felt like the telling of the details of his experience was superficial- relying on the horror of the events to draw the reader in rather than on the development of character. I found the main character to be hard to believe. If someone had really been through all he had, it is hard to believe that he could have marshalled his energy to be as effective as he was, though his interpersonal relationships were a shambles. I have worked with abused children and they usually are crippled not only emotionally but in their ability to reach the full potential of their talents and intellect. I managed to pick the book up again and was less disappointed with the latter part of the book. (less)

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