Henry has experienced some trauma and is a bit fucked up with it. His therapist has him writing a journal, which this is.
Given how much he writes about being angry and depressed and scared, it didn't really come across emotively. The journal felt quite flat and tidy, missing the expected emotional depth.
That said, the whole thing is pretty engrossing and enjoyable to read, but nothing more than that.
For some reason it reminded my of Panther by David Owen. That book has really stuck with me though it was horrific. ( )

Henry Larsen is a troubled boy. This book is his journal, part of therapy following the tragic death of his brother, a murder suicide that has ripped his life and his family apart. Nielsen pulls off the journal style incredibly well, digging deep into the complexity of the character and the situation in which he finds himself. Through Henry, she explores a handful of characters in a handful of situations all laid out with the backdrop of high school and bullying, a setting that is familiar even to those who had a happy high school experience.

It was a delightfully easy read that leaves you hopeful for the characters and, ultimately, for the world. ( )

Amazing depth and empathy in a story about a young teen coping with tragedy and grief at losing a sibling. Told with humour and in a way that hopefully the YA reader will engage. This novel holds a lot wisdom for adult readers as well. Superbly crafted plot (but that cover illustration? IMHO, doesn't do the book any favours.) ( )

The tragic story of how Jesse, Henry’s older brother, finally handled the boy who’d been relentlessly bullying him for months is told through a series of journal entries Henry writes at the request of his therapist. Although this sounds like it would be a gloomy and depressing read, Henry is an honest and surprisingly funny 13 year old, whose written observations of his oddball friends and neighbours are riveting and highly entertaining. ( )

Fantastic! Susin Nielsen, where have you been all my life?!

The Reluctant Journal of Henry K. Larsen is such a well done book. Believable characters, real reactions/feelings/issues, and the topic is timely. The content is handled with grace, humor and heart. Pair this one up with Kathryn Erskine's Mockingbird and Nicky Singer's Feather Boy. Recommended for grades 7-12. ( )