The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Content Ratings

High Romance

The novel includes several characters involved in romantic and sexual relationships with moderate explicit detail; Charlie has a kiss that triggers a traumatic reaction; references to teen sexual activity, same-sex attraction, and experimentation are woven throughout.

Intense Themes

The novel deals directly with suicide, sexual abuse of a child by a trusted adult, depression, PTSD, substance use at high school parties, and same-sex attraction; these themes are sustained and emotionally intense throughout.

Mild Violence

A friend is physically abused by her boyfriend; a past sexual assault of Charlie by a family member is revealed near the end; violence is not graphically depicted but is emotionally significant.

Synopsis

Told through letters to an anonymous recipient, fifteen-year-old Charlie navigates his first year of high school after the suicide of his best friend, finding connection with a group of older students who introduce him to literature, music, and experiences he has never had before. As Charlie finds joy in friendships and a new sense of belonging, suppressed memories of a deeper trauma begin to surface. A sensitive, emotionally honest novel about adolescence, mental health, and healing.