The Perks of Being a 'Chamorro' Wallflower

"We accept the love we think we deserve."

In the span of 24 hours, I rented and watched (twice) The Perks of Being a Wallflower. And, aside from waiting to hear the lovely Emma Watson (aka Hermione Granger) slip in her American accent, I was totally engrossed in this movie. Logan Lerman plays the main character, Charlie, a flawed, hurt, nervous and shy car wreck, who despite all his history is determined to feel normal. He fortunately finds friendship with an older crowd and later realizes that his dark secret of abuse is shared by the one he loves. “I feel infinite.” Is a great mantra in this movie.

I’m a bit late in this review and revelation, but that happens, I’m a mom busy with other things in my reality. Don't let me go off on a tangent about the movie's awesome soundtrack either.

The movie I fall in love with always leads me to the author and book I want to sink my teeth into and sometimes, vice versa.

Stephen Chbosky was hands on with this project from day one. Writing the novel, penning the screenplay and ultimately directing the movie. I love when that happens and I’m happy for his literary and film success.

I’ve always loved teenage angst movies, from being a preteen and devouring flicks such as Sixteen Candles, Pretty in Pink, The Breakfast Club and St. Elmo’s Fire. I always rooted for the shy girl/boy who was the wallflower. One who comes out of the shadows when he or she finds the strength. In many ways, I’ve been that late blooming wallflower.

I’ve found inspiration in Perks and I’m edging towards the final first draft edits of my Young Adult novel, Wonder Summer. I have my very own wallflower and she is finding her strength to bloom.