The Reluctant Journal of Henry K. Larsen by Susin Nielsen
Chapters Indigo | Amazon

We get many books that land on our desk, but back in May among the many manuscripts, advanced reading copies and finished books, I saw Susin Nielsen’s name. I pushed everything aside and grabbed it right away, as I was such a fan on her previous work, Word Nerd and Dear George Clooney, Please Marry My Mom. In full disclosure, I’ll admit that I was so eager to read it, I went to Starbucks after work, ordered a venti and cracked it open.

The aftermath of bullying can sometimes be more detrimental than the actual bullying itself. It can leave permanent scars and it can also affect your loved ones who have to watch you endure the suffering. When a bullying situation goes terribly wrong involving Henry K. Larsen’s brother, Henry and his Mother and Father begin to unravel. Henry’s parents think it’s best that he start visiting a psychologist named Cecil to process his feelings. However, Henry has no interest in discussing how he “feels”, so Cecil suggests that Henry begin writing down his thoughts in a journal and so begins the reluctant journal of Henry. K. Larsen.

When you glimpse into his journal, you meet your average boy who is on a search for new friends and figuring out a way he can land tickets to a live wrestling match. But you also meet a young vulnerable boy, who’s searching for answers.

A touching story about the ramifications of bullying, mixed with a loveable character makes for a perfect read!