The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Abuse, both sexual and physical, plays a large role throughout the novel. How does the abuse that Charlie experiences and witnesses directly influence his character? And how does secrecy play a role in these abuses?

In Chapter 39, Charlie mentions feeling nostalgic for “bad things”(139). How does he define nostalgia? And how does this relate to his aunt Helen?

The author uses books to reveal various aspects of Charlie’s character. Choose three books and explain how they represent different parts of Charlie’s life.

Explain the role of music in Charlie’s life. How does Charlie use music to connect to the people around him?

Discuss the role of The Rocky Horror Picture Show in the novel. What does it represent for Charlie and his friends?

Many times throughout the novel, memory serves as a link between the past and the present for Charlie. How do Charlie’s memories influence his present?

In many ways, the novel is best described as a coming-of-age tale. In what ways is Charlie’s character a reflection of this genre? In what ways does his character diverge from this genre?

The search for identity plays a major role throughout the novel. In what ways does Charlie find his identity? How does this identity change throughout the course of the novel?