The Perfect Cut

The Perfect Cut is definitely not the kind of book you'll want to read if you want something for laughs- it's dark, edgy and focuses on a teen who's experiencing a tough time seemingly alone.

Almost a year ago, Brian's beloved sister Michelle died, leaving him to fend for himself against a cold father and a mother who has taken to drinking at night to ease the pain of losing her child. Brian doesn't care much about anything anymore- his once high grades are slipping, he's skipping school- and he's seriously depressed. The only time when he feels in control and can actually feel something is when he cuts.

In fact, his sister had been a cutter too- a secret he's still keeping from everyone who regarded Michelle in another light and one that's slowly fueling the guilt he feels over her death.

Told mainly in Brian's perspective (sometimes it will randomly switch to another character for a very short time), the book takes place in the present but also flashes back from time to time in the past.

If you've read a 'cutter' book before, you'll probably find many of the events predictable, but if not, prepare to have this book open your eyes to the issues- both social and psychological- this book explores.

The Perfect Cut is one of the 2010 nominations for the White Pine Award.

I had really high hopes for this book and was disappointed. Usually I enjoy book with a topic such as this, just because there is so much emotion present in them. However, I felt little more than frustration with the characters. I didn't enjoy the style of writing either - it definitely would've been more effective if written in first person. And honestly, it wasn't creative. At no point did I think, "I wonder what will happen next!" It was very predictable and cliche. Overall, I think this book is very overrated. The subject matter tries to trick you into thinking it will be an intense read, but it can't cover up for the mediocre writing.

I have read alot of books like this and a lot of them havenn't really sad what the character was going through. And considering I do still go to highschool this book really helps me understand the people in my school that have gone through this or is going through the exact same situation. So i want to thank Julie Burtinshaw for opening my eyes. : )

The detail and depth Julie Burtinshaw went into to describe this young mans life was iunbelievably well done. I started this book, and neglect life until I was finished. From the very beginning I was drawn in to the story, as I have an interest in adolescent psychology, and I was not dissapointed. For anyone looking for a great book that is about more than just first kisses or friend problems, I reccomend this to you. Words cannot deescribe how much I LOVED this book. Thank you.