Change is a Beautiful Thing

Change

is a Beautiful Thing

Growing up is a part of life. Many of our experiences while growing up are what molded us into who we are today. But now, no longer do we have the days as kids where we could play all day and not have a care in the world. We have responsibilities and consequences to our poor actions. Now I don’t mean to upset you; growing up was an emotional experience, but it’s also an eye-opening journey. Little did I know I’d be a future journalism and English major today, yet; from the start, literature was there to help me learn about the world.

From a girl who wrote love letters to all the boys she’s loved before to dystopian societies where people fought to the death and one girl famously said “I volunteer as tribute,” literature manages to explore a multitude of genres, lifestories, and resolutions. However, there’s one commonality between them all: we can always find a way to relate to a character. Throughout a story and character’s development, we learn from them how they solve problems and move through obstacles and it inspires us to move through our obstacles in life. A huge proponent of this inspirational flow is due to coming-of-age in literature.

Defined as a genre of literature or film that focuses on the mental and physical growth of the protagonist, coming-of-age books help us understand that change can be difficult, but it can be done. And I’m here to help you get started! I love coming-of-age books because they help me reflect on my own experiences, but also the experiences I could have. For example, books I’ve read have helped me understand the dynamic of independence and codependence as well as how the shift from home to college life is impactful for many people. Here’s a few book recommendations to get you started. I hope these get you inspired to embrace your metamorphosis. Happy reading!

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Chbosky’s stunning novel follows 15-year-old narrator Charlie who has just entered high school. As declared by the title, Charlie is the epitome of a wallflower: quiet and distant. Shortly afterward, Charlie gets noticed by his English teacher for his talent in writing and befriends Patrick and Sam. As the school year continues, Charlie, being observant, learns more about the complicated high school world as more events and secrets unfold and are revealed.

I love this book because of the way it’s written. Each scene is written like a letter to an anonymous friend and signed by Charlie. This unique feature adds a touching element to the book that makes it all the more relatable. The spectacular quotes that come from the novel also add a touch of relatableness as well as prove my point even further: it’s truly a comingof-age novel. Charlie’s development in the book is simply truly inspiring. The themes of happiness, sadness, grief and acceptance really shine through with Charlie’s narration, making it all the more a must read.

Words on Bathroom Walls by Julia Walton

Written through journal entries, Walton’s debut novel follows Adam Petrezelli and his journey through his schizophrenia diagnosis. After an episode at his old school, Adam transfers to Saint Agatha’s where he starts a new medication called ToZaPrex and befriends Maya and Dwight. After his fresh start and new opportunities, his friendship with Maya eventually blooms into romance and, due to his relationship and newfound genuine friendship, his hallucinations become a thing of the past. The more ecstatic Adam gets about this, the more he tries to hold on to it. But will it last forever?

It’s not uncommon that novels whose stories progress through journal entries are deemed coming-of-age. This book successfully manages to discuss real issues like mental illness in a realistic and empathetic way. I love the book because we read Adam’s thoughts as he goes through his journey and gradually discovers himself and his mental illness. The book’s exploration behind stigmas related to mental illness also provides insight into what it’s like suffering with schizophrenia while also breaks down stereotypes. With themes of family, loyalty, friendship, and understanding, Words on Bathroom Walls is a coming-of-age title that will forever be on my bookshelf.

WRITTEN BY CHARLIE VIGNE ILLUSTRATED BY CRYSTAL FRANKLIN DESIGNER ALLYSSA OGAARD