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kylebook's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Content Warnings
Minor: Homophobia, Racism, and Sexism
dlrosebyh's review against another edition
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
This story is set in 1981 and 1982, and it’s obvious with the background references to some of the historical global events of the time, such as the Falklands War, the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana, as well as the birth of Prince William. The book is written in a diary style and focuses on the worries and regrets of a teenager who believes himself to be an intellectual. Margaret Thatcher is a target of harsh criticism from Mole, who lists her as one of his deadliest foes.
The reading of someone's diary was fascinating (even though Adrian is a fictional character). It was intriguing at first, but then it grew dull. Adrian is just your average teenager guy; he doesn't really stand out. You may read his opinions on a variety of topics, including self-discovery, love, friendship, and school. In essence, the book is a collection of the views that a British white man would have had back in the 80’s. I would have assumed Adrian was younger than fourteen if not for the age in the title. At most, twelve. I suppose a better comparison would be Catcher in the Rye, but with a dumber main character.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity
Moderate: Alcohol
Minor: Racism, Sexism, and Xenophobia
rosalind's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity
Moderate: Sexual content and Alcohol
Minor: Racism, Sexism, and Xenophobia
blymanor's review against another edition
dark
funny
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
The main character was objectively a terrible person, but you couldn't help but love him! Townsend writes exactly how I imagine a 13 year old boy would think, and it's hilarious. Would recommend for a lighthearted read! would not recommend to give to an actual 13 year old, Adrian is not the role model you really want for them.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Infidelity, and Sexism
Minor: Sexual content