REVIEW: Inside My Head by Jim Carrington

 
Review by Kate.

“This cleverly constructed narrative consists of three points of view: of Gary, constantly victimised by the school bully in a nasty, name-calling and vindictive way; the bully's friend, David and a new girl to the school, Zoe. All viewpoints are revealing. Gary reveals the painful and often unsuccessful attempts by a young man to control his anger under great provocation - and his inability to communicate. David is someone who is uncomfortable with the bullying but doesn't dare to do anything about it. Zoe is a young woman who can see Gary through different eyes and is independent, freethinking and brave. Also featured in this title are rampaging tractors, shotguns and cheese puffs.”

I found this book very honest and refreshing. A lot of books on similar subjects spend a lot of time describing the bully and sometimes the victim, but I can’t think of any where their friends are considered main characters. I therefore found the characters of Zoe and David very interesting.

Another thing about the characters was that they were very true to life. I could imagine people from my own High School making the same decisions. This made the message in the story more believable – that speaking out against bullies can make a huge difference in someone’s life.

Once I began reading, I found it hard to stop. It was very well written and though I have no experience of living in the country and I don’t know my way around a farm, I had no problem in picturing all the settings. I was completely sucked into this story.

I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a thought-provoking novel and anyone who has witnessed someone being bullied and is wondering what they can do to make a difference. Well written and worth a read.

Review by Kate.

Comments

[Sophie]

I love split narrative and this sounds really thought-provoking. I think I've got to read this!

[Ria]

Poor Gary!
I agree with Sophie, I love when books are narrated bu two or more people [though after 3 it just gets confusing].
Thanks for the review!

[Rhiana]

I've been wondering about this one as I've had it a while. I'm another fan of split narrative, definitely will be reading soon I think!

[Nayuleska]

I've also been umming and ahhing whether to read this or not. I'm pushing it towards the TBR pile now :) Thanks for the review!