Review of Burly

[Dennis Muthoka 1]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Burly" by Paul Drewitt.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Burly by Paul Drewitt is a sequel that conforms around our protagonist, Sammy, as he goes on to give an account of his life growing up in a sixteen year old's perspective. Having hit the eighty year-old mark and in an institution for the old, old Sam gives us a playback of his life when he was sixteen years old. Been sixteen, he is under a lot of pressure and anxiety just like other kids his age. He is hit with the need of popularity among his age mates and the need to prove oneself to others. When he declares his interest in his crush Susan, he is filled with loads of responsibilities and urgency from his mates to ask her out. He feels the urge to grow up and become an adult and do things that adults do that he thinks are fun.

I like how the author depicts Sam's life growing up. It explains alot on how kids struggle growing up and the challenges they go through. I like how the author projects brotherhood in the book. When going out to ask his crush out, his friends encourage him to do it and are genuinely happy for him when she accepts his proposal. I also like how the book's protagonist is portrayed as a hardworking character. This is evident when he locks himself shut in his shed to work on his BMX ride. I also like how the author portrays activities that Sam and his friends did years back. They would go to the pitts and do bike stunts, swim and even pick up girls which brings back memories to the reader that he or she can relate to.

The book is interesting and captivating to read. It gives one a grasp of unspoken troubles teenagers go through such as depression and anxiety. I don't think there is any negative point to it.

Generally, the book is exciting and fun to read, learning about life from years back. I will give it a four out of four stars rating considering its exceptional editing.

Sam's tale about his life goes on to touch on issues such as friendships, popularity, parental pressure and transition to adult which are various issues most teenagers face. I'd therefore strongly recommend it to younger ones especially teenagers. The book may also conform well with parents as it gives a glimpse of the struggles their teenage children go through. This may positively impact them to learn about these struggles and how they could may be help their children.

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Burly
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