peanut club books

I had really high expectations as I love the film – but I’m afraid I was disapointed. It was the first I read a book written based off the film (rather than the film being based off the book) and I really didn’t enjoy it.

The scenes that were taken from the film were literally copied word for word, and told very explicitly – it was very much ‘tell, not show’. It felt exactly like reading the script of an american show that spells everything out to you. For example, the film doesn’t ever really tell/show you that the main character, Todd, has depression. However, in the book, it tells you in the first chapter.

The scenes that weren’t in the film were completely unecessary. There was a weird sub-plot with Charlie/Nuwanda and some very uncomfortable scenes that were simply not needed – it added nothing to the character or plot.

I think the problem is that the author used conversations and snippets from the film to move the plot forward, but it wasn’t enough for the reader to bond with the characters in the book. However, with the visuals & the acting in the film, it is enough for the viewers to care deeply about the characters.

However, I do love the story.

I love young people discovering what’s important in life, education, seizing the day, making your own way in life, poetry, teaching, chasing your dreams…

The story is amazing, the writing isn’t.

carpe diem 🙂