By: Shayla Phan

SAN JOSE, CALIF.— David Sheff talks about his journey with his son’s methamphetamine addiction in his novel “Beautiful Boy” published on Feb. 26, 2008 which has pulled at readers hearts. 

“Beautiful Boy”, a memoir written by David Sheff. Talks about the struggle of addiction his son had to overcome. This book is very detailed, from the sudden mood swings the son, Nic, experiences, to the random points where he just feels “nothing.” Nic became addicted to methamphetamine during his adolescence, causing problems with everyone in his life. He was a normal kid with hobbies like playing the guitar and surfing with his dad, but upon entering high school, everything in his life shifted.  

My favorite book is, “Beautiful Boy,” because this book has left me with memories I’ll never forget. I read this book in eighth grade for a presentation and have fallen in love with it ever since. 

In the beginning of the story, the book’s exposition is quite long. However, as I continued reading, I soon saw how impactful the story was. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to see the inside truth of addiction and how it can affect everyone. Not much about addiction is known and this book breaks the many stereotypes that addicts face. This novel casts light on the hardships parents of addicts have to endure, and the experiences that both sides have to face. Additionally, the book had a movie made in 2018 that I’ve yet to watch. I’ve seen clips of the movie and it seems moderately accurate, though I believe reading the book before the movie is better.  

For another perspective on the book: “A friend of mine recommended Beautiful Boy to me when I was out of options for what I wanted to read. I gave it a try and I have to say, it’s one of the most emotional books that’ll pull at your heart strings. It’s a roller coaster of emotions and I recommend it to anyone who wants to feel something.” says Luuly Dang. This book is perfect for anyone who wants to get out of a reading slump or for those who want to experience something new! 

A photo copy of the book (SHAYLA PHAN/RAIDER REVIEW)