Word: hanks
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Dates: during 2000-2009
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...Montgomery is no ordinary writer, and Hank is no ordinary book. From start to finish, Montgomery skillfully fashions a narrative that is raw, real and wholly rewarding...
Throughout the novel, he displays a deep and true understanding of modern youngsters and what makes them tick. Most impressive is Montgomery’s convincing use of the first-person; the entire narrative is related through the eyes of Hank. Before the first page is turned, one forgets that a 40-year-old gentleman has authored these words, so genuinely like a boy’s thoughts do they sound. Hank is so authentic that one sometimes feels the need to check for that standard disclaimer reminding us that these characters are only fictitious. Hank bursts from the pages...
...novel moves along at a breezy pace. There is a healthy balance between plot and introspection; the numerous dialogues and conversations are witty and captivating, making for a fun and interesting read. Hank wonders about the mysteries in life, in no particular order of importance. Questions of mortality and tolerance are balanced with musings on how a girl with a nose ring manages to keep the snot from her cheeks when she sneezes. And of course, like any 13-year-old boy, he is fascinated by the insoluble mystery of girls. The author does a commendable job of describing...
...example, homosexuality in Hank is neither sensationalized nor condemned; it is used to impart a message of tolerance. The first lesson is as subtle as a sledgehammer: Hank’s stepmother (whom he amusingly dubs Miss-Perfect-Lady Karen) berates Hank and Jake for casually slinging the word “fag” as an insult. Quivering with righteous indignation, she launches into a stern lecture that lacks impact for all its sincerity. The true lesson comes later when Hank befriends a homosexual couple and experiences the full vitriol of society’s hate and prejudice...
There is an understated elegance to the writing that enriches the flow of the story. It is never overtly flashy, never sacrificing function for form. When describing a girl with a penchant for eccentric dress, for example, Hank comments that “she claims she’s Goth, but she just reminds me of a car wreck that you go by on the Interstate. No matter what you see, it’s impossible to turn your eyes away...