Like “A Clockwork Orange”, this book is probably more famous as a film. But, again, the book is infinitely better!

Jeffery Eugenides has received much praise in the past few years for his novel Middlesex, which is a great book too, but The Virgin Suicides was his first mega hit…and for good reason.

It is a simple yet powerful story. Eugenides forgoes the use of literary devices and flowery language and instead pours his energy into creating a unique plot. The title is pretty self-explanatory and the frankness with which Eugenides describes the events is riveting. Some books are enhanced by descriptive details and flowery imagery, but The Virgin Suicides proves that none of that is necessary when weaving a great story. It is a perfect example of how a short and concise book can still evoke emotion when written by a great author.

The story revolves around the five Lisbon sisters and events that take place in their town. It is told from the point of view of a group of boys who are obsessed with the sisters. This is interesting because, just like the narrators, the reader never truly knows what is happening inside the sisters’ heads and can only make assumptions. Read More »

Growing up I was the fat girl. I had a killer personality, but no one wanted to see me in a bathing suit, let alone in the buff. It wasn’t until much later than the rest of my friends that I had my first anything: kiss, date, boy who liked me as more than the girl who made him laugh in Social Studies.

Needless to say, when I finally did come into my own and learned how to make out with boys at parties, I went sorta…well, nuts. I was lengths behind my friends and felt the need to catch up.

“Oh, you hooked up with 10 boys since your first kiss at 11? Fine! I’ll hook up with ten this weekend!”

It was fun and exciting and I was finally able to take part in all the story telling with my friends. Every night was an opportunity for me to find another story to share, so I took any and every guy that came my way. Sure, it was probably not the best idea, but I was young and free and making up for lost time.

And the stories were well worth it. Read More »