Wired Man and Other Freaks of Nature

Reviewed by: Kara Reiman - Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 13, 2016

Review

Ben Wireman is hard of hearing and wears hearing aids, hidden under his shaggy hair, so that he can pretend to be normal. Tyler, his best friend since elementary school and one of the most popular kids at school, has started to act strangely and won't tell Ben what's going on. Ben feels lost until a blue-haired loner named Ilona comes into his life. Ilona allows Ben to get to know himself outside of being Tyler's best friend. In the end, Ilona helps Tyler come clean about what's bothering him, too. Kaufman has created incredibly realistic and relatable teen characters and shed a fresh light on male friendships. It's clear the author has a keen understanding of teens and their inner turmoil. Recommended for all teen collections.

Overall Book Score: excellent