A review by paracosm
Skater Boy by Anthony Nerada

medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

I wouldn't say this book is inspired by the song Skater Boy, but more by the general idea of what if a "punk" and a ballet dancer dated.

List of missed opportunities:
1; Why is this book not set during the early 2000s? Skater Boy is the most 2000s song ever. 

2; The book is supposed to be inspired by a song, but music has barely any relevance. The skater boy isn't even a punk, as in the subculture. He's a teen that's called a punk for being rebellious. The only band that's consistently mentioned is Metallica, but that's not even a punk band.

3; Wes (skater boy) isn't even a musician. He's a photographer, which doesn't feel the same.

4; No Avril Lavigne reference?!???

5; The fact that Brad wasn't even in love with Wes and just kissed him because he was drunk?? It feels like a cop out. 

Most side characters felt bland, specially the photography club. When Wes got into a fight with his friends and got expelled I was surprised that there were actual consequences. I thought this book might be a 4 stars, but no. All the damage was reversed and nothing truly lasted. It's like the author got scared that things were getting too bad.