Cutter Boy

Reviewed by: Kristin Taylor - Biddeford High School, Biddeford, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: May 4, 2018

Review

Trevor doesn't understand why his parents ignore him. They know he is there and acknowledges his presence, but that is it. To add to his problems, he is constantly bullied at school. His only relief to his personal pain is cutting. Then comes the new girl, Chyvonne, and the art form of paper cutting and he starts to see his way. He also finds out things about his parents that explains their distance relationship.

"Cutter Boy"explores reasons why teens cut and ways that they can overcome the urge of self-mutilation. This book is character driven and is part of the "Sidestreets" series that is known for high interest teen issues with low vocabulary for reluctant readers. Readers of Laurie Halse Anderson's "Wintergirls" and Patricia McCormick's "Cut" will find similarities in "Cutter Boy".

Recommended for grades 10-12.

Overall Book Score: very good