Neil Cronk is a total ass ( )

I never expected to find tears in this book. That only happens through resonance and empathy with the characters, and Neil Cronk is a drug addled arty individual sleeping his way through a myriad of women, deserting his friends, and yet we, and everyone in the story loves him. The pages turn - we want him to escape the drugs, to find a way out, yet at every turn he finds a way to stuff things up. Despite his challenges, he also provides a window into those around him, which in turn causes me to reflect on myself, a great achievement. Whilst set in Cronulla, and clearly a large set of challenges there, this resonates with our own childhoods, and the coming of age we all go through. ( )

I just don't know about this book. Most of the time, and especially the first half of the book, I found it so crass. In some ways it reminded me of The Slap but it is a much better written book. I loved the breadcrumbs dropped at the end of the chapters leaving you looking for the answers. I also felt how Cowell dealt with suicide was very real. He gave me insight into a life I would never really know. It felt real and raw. I felt such empathy for Neil and other times I was disgusted and repelled. I wanted to help him a guide him as so did Gordon even with his underlying fear. Courtney was always so right about Neil but even she disappointed me.I guess this book has really made me think about the characters and even if their lives have not been something I understood I have gone with the journey.I really disliked The Slap but don't feel the same revulsion as I do twoards How It Feels. This book has really made me think about the characters and their lives. Why couldn't Neil just let go at the end do the right thing with Sarah Kirkwood and the speech. His life could have been great! Oh Cronk they all want you. You are loved. ( )