100 Pages A Day...Stephanie's Book Reviews

Haskell Hodge is a sixteen year old from New York  who is focused on school and his acting career.  It's 1966 and Haskell is on his own a lot since his mother is a busy realtor who often works late into the night, he is also a loner without many friends.  Heading into his senior year, Haskell's mom drops a bomb, she is going overseas with her boyfriend and Haskell will be moving to L.A. with his aunt and uncle. Haskell absolutely does not want to uproot his life; however, after a strange going away party where Haskell kissed a boy and liked it, he decides it might be best to run away from the embarrassment.  Haskell finds it difficult to adjust to life with a family, but eventually makes it work.  In L.A. he also finds some friends, but he is still worried that he might be gay and the implications of what that might mean for his future.  

 

Haskell Himself is a unique view into the defining year for a young man in the 1960's. Haskell's character is complex and he is at a time in his life where he is changing and growing as well as living in a decade that is redefining lifestyle and freedom.  The writing truly made me feel for Haskell as he went on an emotional roller coaster.  The descriptions of the inner turmoil Haskell faced within his head were wonderfully done and I was amazed as Haskell went from confusion to denial and acceptance.  Along with his sexuality, Haskell also figures out how to be a friend and family member.  I thought these transitions were just as thoughtful. I enjoyed seeing 1960's L.A. through Haskell's eyes, especially since he was involved with acting. I would have loved to see how Haskell actually dealt with being on set for his movie and how he dealt with the possible fame it brought.  Overall, an important and insightful historical coming of age story.

 

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.