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Flick
From the critically acclaimed, award-winning author of Golden Boy comes Abigail Tarttelin's debut novel, written when she was just nineteen and never before published in America, a modern-day Romeo and Juliet about sex, love, and growing up.
My name is Flick and these are my images of my disconnected life, my forgettable weeks and unforgettable weekends. I am one of the disaffected youth.
Marooned by a lack of education (and lack of anything better to do), Will Flicker, a.k.a. "Flick," spends most days pondering the artistry behind being a stoner, whether Pepsi is better than Coke, and how best to get clear of his tiny, one-horse suburb. But Flick senses there’s something else out there waiting for him, and the sign comes in the form of the new girl in town—a confident, unconventionally beautiful girl named Rainbow. As their relationship develops, Flick finds himself torn between the twisted loyalty he feels to his old life and the pull of freedom that Rainbow represents.
The story unfolds in a small factory town in northern England, where bleak and sometimes treacherous circumstances make the taste of a love affair even sweeter. Told with humor and raw honesty, in a voice "both authentic and compelling" (GQ, UK), Flick captures an unforgettable moment in the life of a young man on the verge.
My name is Flick and these are my images of my disconnected life, my forgettable weeks and unforgettable weekends. I am one of the disaffected youth.
Marooned by a lack of education (and lack of anything better to do), Will Flicker, a.k.a. "Flick," spends most days pondering the artistry behind being a stoner, whether Pepsi is better than Coke, and how best to get clear of his tiny, one-horse suburb. But Flick senses there’s something else out there waiting for him, and the sign comes in the form of the new girl in town—a confident, unconventionally beautiful girl named Rainbow. As their relationship develops, Flick finds himself torn between the twisted loyalty he feels to his old life and the pull of freedom that Rainbow represents.
The story unfolds in a small factory town in northern England, where bleak and sometimes treacherous circumstances make the taste of a love affair even sweeter. Told with humor and raw honesty, in a voice "both authentic and compelling" (GQ, UK), Flick captures an unforgettable moment in the life of a young man on the verge.
288 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2011
About the author
Abigail Tarttelin
8 books412 followersAbigail Tarttelin is an award-winning author, screenwriter, actress, and musician. As a writer, she is best known for Golden Boy, “a grippingly innovative” coming-of-age novel with a “radical non-binary, pro-intersex message” (Autostraddle). Golden Boy is the winner of an Alex Award from the American Library Association, a LAMBDA Literary Award Finalist for Best LGBT Debut, a Booklist Top Ten First Novel of 2013, a School Library Journal Best Book of 2013, and is published in eight languages.
Also a screenwriter, Abigail has served as a juror for the British Independent Film Awards, and is currently working on the Duck Soup/BBC Films adaptation of Golden Boy. Her journalism has appeared in The Guardian, The Independent, Glamour, Phoenix, Oh Comely, and The Huffington Post. She is the recipient of awards from The Authors Foundation and The K Blundell Trust in Great Britain.
For book groups, schools and colleges: request a video call or live appearance at [email protected]
Also a screenwriter, Abigail has served as a juror for the British Independent Film Awards, and is currently working on the Duck Soup/BBC Films adaptation of Golden Boy. Her journalism has appeared in The Guardian, The Independent, Glamour, Phoenix, Oh Comely, and The Huffington Post. She is the recipient of awards from The Authors Foundation and The K Blundell Trust in Great Britain.
For book groups, schools and colleges: request a video call or live appearance at [email protected]
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
January 29, 2018
Different. The author of my favourite book. Asked the library to add it to the collection, which they did. I love my public library. This author is one to watch.
I discovered this author here at Goodreads. She wrote my favourite book of all time. I loved it.
.
This was very different, as it should be, one to be taken on it's own merit. A debut novel, this author is immensely talented, I love her writing - but I don't love this as much Golden Boy. I guess it’s sensical that I can’t love anything as I do my favourite book.
Both consisting of dark themes, this one traces youth in a town that you would lucky to get out of unscathed; or get out of at all. Flick, AKA Will Flicker, hopes to get out, especially upon meeting the girl of his dreams.
Self destruction, crime and drugs will probably get in the way of this way out for the majority of youth in this part of the world. Will Flick be any different?
I discovered this author here at Goodreads. She wrote my favourite book of all time. I loved it.
.This was very different, as it should be, one to be taken on it's own merit. A debut novel, this author is immensely talented, I love her writing - but I don't love this as much Golden Boy. I guess it’s sensical that I can’t love anything as I do my favourite book.
Both consisting of dark themes, this one traces youth in a town that you would lucky to get out of unscathed; or get out of at all. Flick, AKA Will Flicker, hopes to get out, especially upon meeting the girl of his dreams.
Self destruction, crime and drugs will probably get in the way of this way out for the majority of youth in this part of the world. Will Flick be any different?
May 29, 2015
‘…its true, we know what we lack – why d’you think we’re wankered half the time?’
Sometimes you read a book and it hits you in the heart unexpectedly. Something incredibly hopeless and ugly can actually have beauty and meaning. Be a life lesson and a discovery.
Flick our main male character tells a story that’s incredibly real, powerful and uncomfortable. It’s also a photographic snapshot of the now – the today. The actualisation of a certain demographic and the societal and cultural aspects that are the reality for some teenagers today in Britain.
‘Oh take me, self-pity, drag me down into your sweet nothingness.’
As I read I felt morose and despondent. Wanting to shake, rescue or parent our Flick. He’s an intelligent, clued up teenager that almost comes across wise beyond his years. Perhaps a little too mature. Completely aware and at ease with what his life entails and the prospects and reality of it. There were moments where I smiled or laughed; some in irony – some at the humour displayed through Flick.
‘I guess maybe we just have to accept at some point that our problems are our own fault and start dealing with them.’
Flick is extremely well written; so raw, evocative and descriptive it places you into the story. You see the sights, smell the fear and broken dreams and feel every ounce of what Flick feels. The self-acceptance and the given of the future is both heart-breaking yet understandable at the same time. It is what it is. Sometimes it takes more to stay than to leave. Sometimes leaving would be the easier option. Sometimes you know what you’re supposed to do but you chose not to. You know what’s what and you regretfully accept it. It’s a harsh reality of life.
‘Don’t you just want to give up on making this huge effort to get out and change things? Change isn’t necessarily for the better. Life’s all right, isn’t it?’
What would motivate you to change your life; seek a more favourable future? Love? A rainbow with the pot of gold at the end? Whilst I think Flick is a fantastic provocative read – at times – it did feel over written and perhaps taken too far in certain scenes which wasn’t necessary. The story is poignant in itself – the message clear. I have to applaud the Author on where she took this story; it was real and not what can be the norm in fiction. I highly recommend this very different and original read!
‘Think of that person you knew when you were a kid, who you always thought you could have loved completely and forever. Well, you could have. It’s the truth, and it’s the saddest and simplest thing. There isn’t just one person for each of us in the world. There aren’t many, but there are always a few people we could have made it with, that maybe we still want to make it with, that press themselves so close to our hearts they leave scars, and then slip through our fingers and disappear from our lives. And it doesn’t make a difference if you’re thirteen or ninety- eight because some things you feel are real, no matter when.’
**Reviewed from an ARC Copy provided by Atria Books with thanks**
★ ☆ ★
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March 30, 2015
Will ‘Flick’ Flicker gives us a sort of twisted take on a coming of age novel where we are drawn into the mind of a fifteen year old stoner (among other drugs) as he discovers a very important life lesson, buried beneath the philosophical rambling.
This story felt, at times, like the most amazing book and yet, I was almost underwhelmed. I felt like I had a contact high as I read along. I could almost see myself in my teen angst fueled youth, with a joint pressed between my lips; weighing the big questions in life. You know the times. The times when in your head you just came up with the most amazing theory but yet everyone around you is staring at you like your nose just fell off. In that aspect, I loved the story. It felt nostalgic. I lost time. When nothing that mattered truly mattered, but those things meant the most to you.
The flip side though is that the ramblings of Flick did not fit his age. His voice was so aged for someone of just fifteen. As for his relationship with Rainbow, it was a huge part of the story, but at the same time we got to see very little of the moments before the fall.
By the time I was nearing the final chapters of this one, it hit a nerve. I can’t quite put my finger on what it was, but it was there. I was overtaken with a bit of emotion as we see what really came of Flick & Rainbow. This story had some great potential to really wow me. It was crazy and so different that in a way, it really worked – I felt like I was slipped a little magic pill and taken on a journey - but there were just a few holes that made it have less than an impact. This I think would have been one of those books that a sixteen year old me would have loved, that would have been a bit righteous and life changing. But for this thirty-five year old, some of the glitter has faded.
This story felt, at times, like the most amazing book and yet, I was almost underwhelmed. I felt like I had a contact high as I read along. I could almost see myself in my teen angst fueled youth, with a joint pressed between my lips; weighing the big questions in life. You know the times. The times when in your head you just came up with the most amazing theory but yet everyone around you is staring at you like your nose just fell off. In that aspect, I loved the story. It felt nostalgic. I lost time. When nothing that mattered truly mattered, but those things meant the most to you.
The flip side though is that the ramblings of Flick did not fit his age. His voice was so aged for someone of just fifteen. As for his relationship with Rainbow, it was a huge part of the story, but at the same time we got to see very little of the moments before the fall.
By the time I was nearing the final chapters of this one, it hit a nerve. I can’t quite put my finger on what it was, but it was there. I was overtaken with a bit of emotion as we see what really came of Flick & Rainbow. This story had some great potential to really wow me. It was crazy and so different that in a way, it really worked – I felt like I was slipped a little magic pill and taken on a journey - but there were just a few holes that made it have less than an impact. This I think would have been one of those books that a sixteen year old me would have loved, that would have been a bit righteous and life changing. But for this thirty-five year old, some of the glitter has faded.
March 9, 2015
Okay...where to start.
First, the synopsis claims "A modern-day Romeo and Juliet with a voice reminiscent of the rawness of 1970s punk" - and I was really excited to start this book after reading that little tidbit! Unfortunately, this is not the feel I got from Flick. At all. Ever. At any point. Nope.
Second, the synopsis also claims "lack of education". Uh..no. Again, just nope. He goes to class, he gets good grades, he goes on these ridiculous tangents that are absolutely, totally, 100% meaningless but fucking well thought out none the less. He's not a dumb kid, he's not uneducated.
Flick is really just an uncaring dickhead. He uses the excuse of living in a dead-end town, to be a wasted youth. Which is a pivotal part in the story and there is a real lesson that can be learned from that. Though, I don't think it's delivered even remotely as powerful as it could have been.
A new girl, Rainbow, moves to town and Flick finally finds some meaning in his life. He falls in love but she's not willing to aid his life as a stoner. At this point, several options could happen.
Some that could deliver strong endings. Some that will fall flat. Which is exactly what happened, for me, with Flick.
The ending was so anti-climatic. Furthermore, the entire story was. There is no excitement, there isn't any moment where you feel like shit is about to hit the fan, the story follows a shallow and expected arc.
Also, I found myself skimming so much of it. There were pages and pages of randomness where I just kept asking myself - why is this part of the story? It didn't give me anything in character development, it didn't really further the story, it was fluff. I think those pages would have been better spent on developing a relationship between Flick and Rainbow. There was so little there, I could not for the life of me figure out what the hell they saw in each other. They go from a two sentence conversation and the next thing you know they are having sex.
Which leads me to another thing... This book is based in the U.K. and I know they have vastly different legal age determinations there than they do in the U.S. I felt like I had been pushed into the deep end of teen sex and debauchery. Flick is fifteen, yet talks like a cocky perverted adult. This was not a Young Adult book in my opinion. It's very mature in language and content. Which is completely fine, but it still left me disconnected. This is not how I seen teens. Yes, I see them do drugs and have sex...I'm not naive to that but this was just much more over the top.
While I absolutely respect the idea of the message in Flick and I really did enjoy the style in which Tarttelin writes, this just was not a strong enough story for me. I'm not so turned off that I won't look at other titles from her, but Flick won't be hitting my favorites bookshelf either.
First, the synopsis claims "A modern-day Romeo and Juliet with a voice reminiscent of the rawness of 1970s punk" - and I was really excited to start this book after reading that little tidbit! Unfortunately, this is not the feel I got from Flick. At all. Ever. At any point. Nope.
Second, the synopsis also claims "lack of education". Uh..no. Again, just nope. He goes to class, he gets good grades, he goes on these ridiculous tangents that are absolutely, totally, 100% meaningless but fucking well thought out none the less. He's not a dumb kid, he's not uneducated.
Flick is really just an uncaring dickhead. He uses the excuse of living in a dead-end town, to be a wasted youth. Which is a pivotal part in the story and there is a real lesson that can be learned from that. Though, I don't think it's delivered even remotely as powerful as it could have been.
A new girl, Rainbow, moves to town and Flick finally finds some meaning in his life. He falls in love but she's not willing to aid his life as a stoner. At this point, several options could happen.
Some that could deliver strong endings. Some that will fall flat. Which is exactly what happened, for me, with Flick.
The ending was so anti-climatic. Furthermore, the entire story was. There is no excitement, there isn't any moment where you feel like shit is about to hit the fan, the story follows a shallow and expected arc.
Also, I found myself skimming so much of it. There were pages and pages of randomness where I just kept asking myself - why is this part of the story? It didn't give me anything in character development, it didn't really further the story, it was fluff. I think those pages would have been better spent on developing a relationship between Flick and Rainbow. There was so little there, I could not for the life of me figure out what the hell they saw in each other. They go from a two sentence conversation and the next thing you know they are having sex.
Which leads me to another thing... This book is based in the U.K. and I know they have vastly different legal age determinations there than they do in the U.S. I felt like I had been pushed into the deep end of teen sex and debauchery. Flick is fifteen, yet talks like a cocky perverted adult. This was not a Young Adult book in my opinion. It's very mature in language and content. Which is completely fine, but it still left me disconnected. This is not how I seen teens. Yes, I see them do drugs and have sex...I'm not naive to that but this was just much more over the top.
While I absolutely respect the idea of the message in Flick and I really did enjoy the style in which Tarttelin writes, this just was not a strong enough story for me. I'm not so turned off that I won't look at other titles from her, but Flick won't be hitting my favorites bookshelf either.
August 30, 2011
I have to be clear here. I am quite fussy when it comes to reading new books, in fact i tend to read old favourites over and over because i trust them and the reaction i get to reading them.
When i received this book, the first thing you notice is the quality of the book. You flick through the book, checking the font size, how many pages there are, how heavy the book feels.
The font size is perfect (especially when reading in bed or sneaking in a quiet few mins on the bus), the pages are enough not to scare you, and the weight is perfect for shoving into a bag at a moments notice and not feeling the extra weight (which is usually when i blame my purse for having too many coppers).
The story is relevant on many levels, but purely the feeling i get when reading this book is that i can imagine it happening. This does not usually happen to me unless i read a trusted favourite, which mens this book means something to me. I'm taken with the narrative so much that it shines beyond the usual verite-type stories we tend to get these days.
This book has become a favourite. When it is placed on my bookshelf after reading, it can be trusted to shine through the mountains of inevitable samey books i am used to reading. And i am glad when people notice it amongst my hundreds of books, waiting for them to ask 'whats that then?'.
I can't wait to see what this suspiciously young (but ultimately worldy and accurate) author has to come in the future.
When i received this book, the first thing you notice is the quality of the book. You flick through the book, checking the font size, how many pages there are, how heavy the book feels.
The font size is perfect (especially when reading in bed or sneaking in a quiet few mins on the bus), the pages are enough not to scare you, and the weight is perfect for shoving into a bag at a moments notice and not feeling the extra weight (which is usually when i blame my purse for having too many coppers).
The story is relevant on many levels, but purely the feeling i get when reading this book is that i can imagine it happening. This does not usually happen to me unless i read a trusted favourite, which mens this book means something to me. I'm taken with the narrative so much that it shines beyond the usual verite-type stories we tend to get these days.
This book has become a favourite. When it is placed on my bookshelf after reading, it can be trusted to shine through the mountains of inevitable samey books i am used to reading. And i am glad when people notice it amongst my hundreds of books, waiting for them to ask 'whats that then?'.
I can't wait to see what this suspiciously young (but ultimately worldy and accurate) author has to come in the future.
October 17, 2012
I have passed Flick in my library at least 200 times. I'm not even joking, I saw this book every time I visited my branch. Based on the cover, I thought it was a book about Flickr, that photo-hosting website thing. I don't know. I thought Abigail Tarttelin was talking about social-networking sites and technology and how it affects youngsters. I was wrong. I was the wrongest girl in america. Maybe even the world.
Flick tells the tale of Will Flicker, an attractive, cocky, smart, FIFTEEN YEAR OLD BOY who lives in England. He drinks with his pals, he hooks up with lasses, and he smokes like a chimney. When I think of a stereotypical British youth, I think of Will Flicker. I couldn't wrap my mind around his age, though. He's 15 and he's having sex, drinking it up, snorting coke, doing the fun things I guess? I don't know, but it was just weird. Like I knew he was 15, but I imagined in my head he was 17-18.
Read the entire thingamig at Books from a Shelf
Flick tells the tale of Will Flicker, an attractive, cocky, smart, FIFTEEN YEAR OLD BOY who lives in England. He drinks with his pals, he hooks up with lasses, and he smokes like a chimney. When I think of a stereotypical British youth, I think of Will Flicker. I couldn't wrap my mind around his age, though. He's 15 and he's having sex, drinking it up, snorting coke, doing the fun things I guess? I don't know, but it was just weird. Like I knew he was 15, but I imagined in my head he was 17-18.
Read the entire thingamig at Books from a Shelf
July 24, 2012
I found this a riveting, touching, hilarious, irreverent, but somehow familiar read when I was editing it.
Thanks to everyone who has reviewed! I am joining Good Reads a little late, it's July 2012, but I'm excited to read books I'm recommended and I hope everyone enjoys Flick and takes something away from it!
Thanks to everyone who has reviewed! I am joining Good Reads a little late, it's July 2012, but I'm excited to read books I'm recommended and I hope everyone enjoys Flick and takes something away from it!
September 9, 2012
Flick was purchased by me at Waterstones in Oxford. As a Canadian visiting England for the first time, I wanted a taste of Contemporary YA fiction in the country. Flick surpassed all my expectations and more.
The writing is engaging and Flick's voice draws you completely into the story. The love between Flick and Rainbow was so beautifully described.
The reason this book gets a five-star rating from me is solely because of this one passage:
Think of that person you knew when you were a kid, who you always thought you could have loved completely and forever.Well, you could have. It’s the truth, and it’s the saddest and simplest thing. There isn’t just one person for each of us in the world. There aren’t many, but there are always a few people we could have made it with, that maybe we still want to make it with, that press themselves so close to our hearts they leave scars, and then slip through our fingers and disappear from our lives. And it doesn’t make a difference if you’re thirteen or ninety- eight because some things you feel are real, no matter when.
The writing is engaging and Flick's voice draws you completely into the story. The love between Flick and Rainbow was so beautifully described.
The reason this book gets a five-star rating from me is solely because of this one passage:
Think of that person you knew when you were a kid, who you always thought you could have loved completely and forever.Well, you could have. It’s the truth, and it’s the saddest and simplest thing. There isn’t just one person for each of us in the world. There aren’t many, but there are always a few people we could have made it with, that maybe we still want to make it with, that press themselves so close to our hearts they leave scars, and then slip through our fingers and disappear from our lives. And it doesn’t make a difference if you’re thirteen or ninety- eight because some things you feel are real, no matter when.
Lesen
February 17, 2015I really don't know what to say about this book. I laughed, I liked it, it was...okay. I don't know. I couldn't connect with anyone but I liked the story. No rating because I still don't know how I feel about it. Beautiful cover though!
Flick is smart and smokes like a chimney. He's fifteen...I guess that put me off. This book takes place in England so yay! Not much else I can say about him.
Rainbow is a cool name. She was fun. I think I would have enjoyed this more if it were her POV.
Ugh, I wish I could have connected with someone, then I'd be all over this. I'd recommend it though so try it out.
Complimentary copy provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Flick is smart and smokes like a chimney. He's fifteen...I guess that put me off. This book takes place in England so yay! Not much else I can say about him.
Rainbow is a cool name. She was fun. I think I would have enjoyed this more if it were her POV.
Ugh, I wish I could have connected with someone, then I'd be all over this. I'd recommend it though so try it out.
Complimentary copy provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
October 21, 2013
I think I would have enjoyed this book far more had it been narrated by Rainbow instead of Flick. I think her perspective would have been more enjoyable as she is by far the more interesting character (an orphaned girl named Rainbow adopted by an interracial lesbian couple? HELLO). Flick was not nearly as likeable, though I'm not sure he's supposed to be,and his tone is just too cynical for me to enjoy (do adults think this is what all teenagers sound like? Maybe it's just me that feels like that's the case). Some really beautiful and heartbreaking moments in this book, although the ending left me feeling depressed. I would still like to read more from this author.
September 28, 2015
About a boy with his fucked up life for being a drug dealer by 'force' and how he wants to sort his life altogether after he met Rainbow.
This is not a happy ending book.
It is what it is and sometimes life are not so 'rainbow' for everyone but we make it out with what we had and what we will have in order for us to be happy and be full of life.
Liked it, enjoyed it and overall, a good read.
(Disclaimer: This book contains lots and lots of profanity and very sexually graphic)
This is not a happy ending book.
It is what it is and sometimes life are not so 'rainbow' for everyone but we make it out with what we had and what we will have in order for us to be happy and be full of life.
Liked it, enjoyed it and overall, a good read.
(Disclaimer: This book contains lots and lots of profanity and very sexually graphic)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2019
After finishing this book there is two things that I know for sure: a) I’ve never read anything like this before and b) I love Abigail Tarttelin even more! I’ve read Golden Boy by this author back in march and not only it was my favorite book of the month but it became a favorite of my life. Seriously, that book is absolutely beautiful and precious. Flick was the author’s debut novel. And I can honestly say I had no clue what to expect. But I ended up really liking it. Even tho in totally different situations I could at times relate to Flick, because he is also so lost in life and has no idea what to do with it and for him the days just blend into one another and I really felt that! The thing that I love the most about Abigail Tarttelin is her way with words. Their are raw and crude and straight to the point. They are honest and brutal. There is no beautiful metaphors here. There is a realness to her characters and the way she explores their lives and inner feelings, how it is like to be a teenager, to feel lost and worthless, to be human, after all. This story was poignant and gut-wrenching in a way I wasn’t expecting, giving me a view of what it’s like to live in some places of England.
I will read everything Abigail Tarttelin ever writes and just like I never forgot Max, I will never forget Flick 💛✨
.
4/5 stars ✨
I will read everything Abigail Tarttelin ever writes and just like I never forgot Max, I will never forget Flick 💛✨
.
4/5 stars ✨
October 22, 2015
This 2.5 coffee mugs review was first published on Latte Nights Reviews.
Flick is a good story of a fifteen-year-old that has been dealt with a black card but he keeps thriving everyday to make it through.
It’s really hard for me to connect with male POV’s, which I have stated before and this is one of those books. I believe that if Flick had been in Rainbow’s POV, I may have enjoyed it a lot. Like I said above, this is a good story that I just enjoyed and I wish it had been a little bit more fast paced than it was. At times, lots of pages would go by without any interaction and that usually leads to me DNF’ing a book but I really wanted to give this book a try.
Flick is a very complicated character that was hard to like. He is only fifteen years old and he is pretty much wasting his youth. There were times where I completely forgot he was fifteen because the stuff that he does so early on age had me double checking his age quite a few times. I mean, there are teens these days that do what he does, I get that but it was just so hard to get into his head because he was so conflicted over a lot of aspects of his life, which is understandable, I know. Then he meets Rainbow and it is like love at first sight. I would say for both but Rainbow’s emotions kind of lacked through the story, which is why I would have loved to read her point of view or at least alternating between the two.
I really loved Rainbow’s character, primarily because she really didn’t want to be with Flick if he was going to keep going back to the drugs and I give props to her for being strong in her decision and actually mean it, which got Flick to be scared but he still went back to it. I saw myself in Rainbow, I connected with Rainbow in so many ways. I believe if there had been more parts where Rainbow was featured, we could have really understood her even more and liked her even more. I disliked Flick’s girl friends…a lot. I tried liking them but I would just roll my eyes at them and just wanted them out of the book.
The story picked up by part three (it is divided in five parts) and I was enjoying myself but then it started falling and falling but I kept thinking it would be better. The ending fell entirely flat, like a heart-line when the heart is dead. I couldn’t believe the story had ended the way it did, which threw me off a bit.
The writing, though. I really like Abigail’s writing. It is so detailed and it has this sort of elegance to it. I would really liked to read a book by her on a girl’s point of view. I would buy that in an instant! Abigail is a good writer, for sure. But I believe exploring other areas and having the characters do interactions, will help us learn about them and maybe even connect with them.
Flick is a good story of a fifteen-year-old that has been dealt with a black card but he keeps thriving everyday to make it through.
It’s really hard for me to connect with male POV’s, which I have stated before and this is one of those books. I believe that if Flick had been in Rainbow’s POV, I may have enjoyed it a lot. Like I said above, this is a good story that I just enjoyed and I wish it had been a little bit more fast paced than it was. At times, lots of pages would go by without any interaction and that usually leads to me DNF’ing a book but I really wanted to give this book a try.
Flick is a very complicated character that was hard to like. He is only fifteen years old and he is pretty much wasting his youth. There were times where I completely forgot he was fifteen because the stuff that he does so early on age had me double checking his age quite a few times. I mean, there are teens these days that do what he does, I get that but it was just so hard to get into his head because he was so conflicted over a lot of aspects of his life, which is understandable, I know. Then he meets Rainbow and it is like love at first sight. I would say for both but Rainbow’s emotions kind of lacked through the story, which is why I would have loved to read her point of view or at least alternating between the two.
I really loved Rainbow’s character, primarily because she really didn’t want to be with Flick if he was going to keep going back to the drugs and I give props to her for being strong in her decision and actually mean it, which got Flick to be scared but he still went back to it. I saw myself in Rainbow, I connected with Rainbow in so many ways. I believe if there had been more parts where Rainbow was featured, we could have really understood her even more and liked her even more. I disliked Flick’s girl friends…a lot. I tried liking them but I would just roll my eyes at them and just wanted them out of the book.
The story picked up by part three (it is divided in five parts) and I was enjoying myself but then it started falling and falling but I kept thinking it would be better. The ending fell entirely flat, like a heart-line when the heart is dead. I couldn’t believe the story had ended the way it did, which threw me off a bit.
The writing, though. I really like Abigail’s writing. It is so detailed and it has this sort of elegance to it. I would really liked to read a book by her on a girl’s point of view. I would buy that in an instant! Abigail is a good writer, for sure. But I believe exploring other areas and having the characters do interactions, will help us learn about them and maybe even connect with them.
June 19, 2015
Full review on blog WITH GIVEAWAY: http://www.bookbaristas.org/2015/06/r...
"The thing is, Flick, life wasn’t meant to be perfect. Perfect is a concept human beings created because we are intrinsically afraid."
I am so happy to have finally read another book by Abigail Tarttelin. I thoroughly enjoyed this read about a boy named William Flicker and the rollercoaster that is his teenage life. I don’t know if I love Flick (the character, not the book), or even entirely like him, but I did like living inside of his head. He’s selfish, careless at times and sometimes a downright asshole. However, just because a character isn’t likable doesn’t make him any less real. He’s growing up, confused about where he wants to go in life and terrified of change. He’s the kind of guy who wholeheartedly sticks to a routine because it’s easy and effortless.
“Life is so transient and ultimately (although this might not be everyone’s opinion, it’s mine) meaningless.”
Flick meets Rainbow, a lovely teenage girl, who becomes a sort of shining light in Flick’s dull and colorless world. I loved Rainbow something fierce because you can easily see how selfless she is. She cares for Flick and only wants him to see how worthy he is of a different life away from all of the drugs and alcohol. She believes in his future, a future he himself can hardly see with his perpetually clouded mind.
“The thing about Rainbow was that she knew the truth in people.”
The storyline was a bit slow at times, but I became extremely invested toward the second half of the story. I desperately needed to see how Flick was going to get himself out of the drama that he became enveloped in unscathed.
"Everything is hard. If you’re going to try for something, might as well be something you really want.”
The ending of the story was what really got me. I loved it completely and unabashedly because it was exactly what this story needed. The message I took from this book was that you cannot possibly change for someone else. You need to want to be better, do better, for yourself.
Thank you, Abby, for this wondrous read! I love love love your writing style and your words of wisdom. I can’t wait to see what you come up with next!
"The thing is, Flick, life wasn’t meant to be perfect. Perfect is a concept human beings created because we are intrinsically afraid."
I am so happy to have finally read another book by Abigail Tarttelin. I thoroughly enjoyed this read about a boy named William Flicker and the rollercoaster that is his teenage life. I don’t know if I love Flick (the character, not the book), or even entirely like him, but I did like living inside of his head. He’s selfish, careless at times and sometimes a downright asshole. However, just because a character isn’t likable doesn’t make him any less real. He’s growing up, confused about where he wants to go in life and terrified of change. He’s the kind of guy who wholeheartedly sticks to a routine because it’s easy and effortless.
“Life is so transient and ultimately (although this might not be everyone’s opinion, it’s mine) meaningless.”
Flick meets Rainbow, a lovely teenage girl, who becomes a sort of shining light in Flick’s dull and colorless world. I loved Rainbow something fierce because you can easily see how selfless she is. She cares for Flick and only wants him to see how worthy he is of a different life away from all of the drugs and alcohol. She believes in his future, a future he himself can hardly see with his perpetually clouded mind.
“The thing about Rainbow was that she knew the truth in people.”
The storyline was a bit slow at times, but I became extremely invested toward the second half of the story. I desperately needed to see how Flick was going to get himself out of the drama that he became enveloped in unscathed.
"Everything is hard. If you’re going to try for something, might as well be something you really want.”
The ending of the story was what really got me. I loved it completely and unabashedly because it was exactly what this story needed. The message I took from this book was that you cannot possibly change for someone else. You need to want to be better, do better, for yourself.
Thank you, Abby, for this wondrous read! I love love love your writing style and your words of wisdom. I can’t wait to see what you come up with next!
June 8, 2011
Flick is a snapshot of the life of Will "Flick" Flicker, a boy living in a small town in the north-east of England, approaching his GCSEs and with little clue as to what to do next. Being smarter than the friends he surrounds himself with - or so he thinks - the book is a commentary not just on his life, but on the state of being 15, clueless, and free of ambition, with nothing but Friday-night drug and alcopop binges to get you through the week.
I thought it would be an interesting book in that it suggests a unique insight into this boy's life, reminding those of us whose teen years are far behind what it felt like to be stuck in the educational flow, trying to work out who you are, what you want, and what you can be, but the antagonist Fez feels crammed in, and detracts from Flick's real story - that of trying to find a way out of his dead-end life and be somebody, if not for himself, then for his first true love.
I guess any book needs an injection of conflict to have a chance of landing a deal, but as in so many cases, this book didn't need it, and loses a star from me as a result.
Kindle Version: Formatting "errors" weren't too prevalent, but the decision to not override the default extra line between paragraphs is really annoying. The first-line indents were inconsistent too. This book also needs a proofread; it's just not up to quality. The odd typo is understandable/acceptable, but consistent misuse of your/you're is something any professional proofreader should be looking for. I was tempted to believe that this was an affectation on the author's part to make the prose feel like it was written by a 15-year-old boy failing his exams, but if it was, it was misjudged.
I thought it would be an interesting book in that it suggests a unique insight into this boy's life, reminding those of us whose teen years are far behind what it felt like to be stuck in the educational flow, trying to work out who you are, what you want, and what you can be, but the antagonist Fez feels crammed in, and detracts from Flick's real story - that of trying to find a way out of his dead-end life and be somebody, if not for himself, then for his first true love.
I guess any book needs an injection of conflict to have a chance of landing a deal, but as in so many cases, this book didn't need it, and loses a star from me as a result.
Kindle Version: Formatting "errors" weren't too prevalent, but the decision to not override the default extra line between paragraphs is really annoying. The first-line indents were inconsistent too. This book also needs a proofread; it's just not up to quality. The odd typo is understandable/acceptable, but consistent misuse of your/you're is something any professional proofreader should be looking for. I was tempted to believe that this was an affectation on the author's part to make the prose feel like it was written by a 15-year-old boy failing his exams, but if it was, it was misjudged.
May 15, 2015
Having previously read (and loved) Golden Boy by Abigail Tarttelin I was excited to see what her previous novel had to offer. Fortunately for me, Flick is an excellent story.
Without trying to make comparisons between this and Golden Boy (because believe me it would be a difficult thing to do – it would be like comparing a tree with a unicorn) I do have to comment on the growth that you can see in Tarttelin’s writing. That is not to say that Flick isn’t well written – it is ridiculously good – but having read both books in the wrong order I can definitely see how Tarttelin’s writing has matured.
Flick has all the angsty high school drama that you would expect from a cast of characters who are all still in their teens – and then some. To liken it to a teenage Trainspotting wouldn’t be wrong. It has all the elements required to be similar to the Irvine Welsh classic – starting with the sassy narration.
Flick, our protagonist, has a disaffected way of looking at life. Having lived the working class life his whole life he sees no glorious future in staying in his home town. However, dreams for bigger better things are not something that the working class kids should aspire to – because for the people of small seaside town of Cleveland, it just ain’t gonna happen!
Tartellin’s voice as a writer is amazing. You feel compelled to read her stories because she has such a gritty grip on the nuances of her characters, their situations and the society they live in. She is one of the better contemporary writers we have and more people should know about and celebrate her work.
Flick by Abigail Tarttelin is available now.
You can follow Abigail Tarttelin (@abigailsbrain) on Twitter.
Without trying to make comparisons between this and Golden Boy (because believe me it would be a difficult thing to do – it would be like comparing a tree with a unicorn) I do have to comment on the growth that you can see in Tarttelin’s writing. That is not to say that Flick isn’t well written – it is ridiculously good – but having read both books in the wrong order I can definitely see how Tarttelin’s writing has matured.
Flick has all the angsty high school drama that you would expect from a cast of characters who are all still in their teens – and then some. To liken it to a teenage Trainspotting wouldn’t be wrong. It has all the elements required to be similar to the Irvine Welsh classic – starting with the sassy narration.
Flick, our protagonist, has a disaffected way of looking at life. Having lived the working class life his whole life he sees no glorious future in staying in his home town. However, dreams for bigger better things are not something that the working class kids should aspire to – because for the people of small seaside town of Cleveland, it just ain’t gonna happen!
Tartellin’s voice as a writer is amazing. You feel compelled to read her stories because she has such a gritty grip on the nuances of her characters, their situations and the society they live in. She is one of the better contemporary writers we have and more people should know about and celebrate her work.
Flick by Abigail Tarttelin is available now.
You can follow Abigail Tarttelin (@abigailsbrain) on Twitter.
July 12, 2015
3.5 Sweet Stars for a Goodreads Giveaway
Now with the review, I honesty don't know what to say. I finished it and sat on it for four days and still nothing, I can't come up with anything. But I will try my best.
Initially I was going to give this book two stars (see Ali *The Black Heart* Review) because I feel exactly like the person mentioned in the brackets. (Ps- sorry Ali.... for the random shout out)
But then I thought, goodreads giveaways books also deserves me to be a bit unbiased so to so speak.
And with that Ms. Abigail Tarttelin (who btw has an amazing name) also has mad writing (especially grammar) skills and that hard work alone deserves one star.
But I also think the novel itself lacked a bit of direction/flow or in other words was a bit abrupt from one scene to another.
On the other hand, despite the unbelievable mindset of a 15 year old Flick (I was completely naive compared to Flick when I was 15), I still enjoyed the quirkiness/sarcastic thought process of the MC and that should have a point too.
Lastly, the unexpectedness of the ending (even if I didn't personally like it) + the monologuish part at the end that surprisingly resonated quite a bit made me give this sweetish yet angsty novel a healthy 3.5 stars.
Things to Note
HEA: Nope
POV: Male Only
Recommendation: Within Reason
Mature Content: As long as your older than 17 you should be fine but it's definitely not a family read
At a last note, this book was not for me but I'd still give this author chance because I feel like she still has a lot of interesting things to say.
Now with the review, I honesty don't know what to say. I finished it and sat on it for four days and still nothing, I can't come up with anything. But I will try my best.
Initially I was going to give this book two stars (see Ali *The Black Heart* Review) because I feel exactly like the person mentioned in the brackets. (Ps- sorry Ali.... for the random shout out)
But then I thought, goodreads giveaways books also deserves me to be a bit unbiased so to so speak.
And with that Ms. Abigail Tarttelin (who btw has an amazing name) also has mad writing (especially grammar) skills and that hard work alone deserves one star.
But I also think the novel itself lacked a bit of direction/flow or in other words was a bit abrupt from one scene to another.
On the other hand, despite the unbelievable mindset of a 15 year old Flick (I was completely naive compared to Flick when I was 15), I still enjoyed the quirkiness/sarcastic thought process of the MC and that should have a point too.
Lastly, the unexpectedness of the ending (even if I didn't personally like it) + the monologuish part at the end that surprisingly resonated quite a bit made me give this sweetish yet angsty novel a healthy 3.5 stars.
Things to Note
HEA: Nope
POV: Male Only
Recommendation: Within Reason
Mature Content: As long as your older than 17 you should be fine but it's definitely not a family read
At a last note, this book was not for me but I'd still give this author chance because I feel like she still has a lot of interesting things to say.
September 8, 2015
I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review
First off, I have to say that I LOVE this cover!! It's beautiful! Everyone says you can't judge a book by the cover, but admit it everyone does!
Blurb
My name is Flick and these are my images of my disconnected life, my forgettable weeks and unforgettable weekends. I am one of the disaffected youth.
Marooned by a lack of education (and lack of anything better to do), Will Flicker, a.k.a. "Flick," spends most days pondering the artistry behind being a stoner, whether Pepsi is better than Coke, and how best to get clear of his tiny, one-horse suburb. But Flick senses there’s something else out there waiting for him, and the sign comes in the form of the new girl in town—a confident, unconventionally beautiful girl named Rainbow. As their relationship develops, Flick finds himself torn between the twisted loyalty he feels to his old life and the pull of freedom that Rainbow represents.
The story unfolds in a small factory town in northern England, where bleak and sometimes treacherous circumstances make the taste of a love affair even sweeter. Told with humor and raw honesty, in a voice "both authentic and compelling" (GQ, UK), Flick captures an unforgettable moment in the life of a young man on the verge.
The world that Abigail creates automatically pulls you in, especially with Flick's voice! Flick is a coming of age novel, that is quite different than all the others. At times it felt a little dark to me. The characters are so well written! I really loved Rainbow.. maybe even a smidge more than Flick.
It's a quick read that I enjoyed!
First off, I have to say that I LOVE this cover!! It's beautiful! Everyone says you can't judge a book by the cover, but admit it everyone does!
Blurb
My name is Flick and these are my images of my disconnected life, my forgettable weeks and unforgettable weekends. I am one of the disaffected youth.
Marooned by a lack of education (and lack of anything better to do), Will Flicker, a.k.a. "Flick," spends most days pondering the artistry behind being a stoner, whether Pepsi is better than Coke, and how best to get clear of his tiny, one-horse suburb. But Flick senses there’s something else out there waiting for him, and the sign comes in the form of the new girl in town—a confident, unconventionally beautiful girl named Rainbow. As their relationship develops, Flick finds himself torn between the twisted loyalty he feels to his old life and the pull of freedom that Rainbow represents.
The story unfolds in a small factory town in northern England, where bleak and sometimes treacherous circumstances make the taste of a love affair even sweeter. Told with humor and raw honesty, in a voice "both authentic and compelling" (GQ, UK), Flick captures an unforgettable moment in the life of a young man on the verge.
The world that Abigail creates automatically pulls you in, especially with Flick's voice! Flick is a coming of age novel, that is quite different than all the others. At times it felt a little dark to me. The characters are so well written! I really loved Rainbow.. maybe even a smidge more than Flick.
It's a quick read that I enjoyed!
June 4, 2015
I picked this book off the library's "new additions" shelf not really knowing what to expect. First of all, the cover art is really cool. "Flick" kind of reminded me of a more emotional and impassioned version of Nick McDonell's "Twelve". Fast-paced, fearless, shocking, and crude; but with all of the sweet emotions and romance that didn't come with Twelve.
Tarttelin is a very talented writer. Although some of the English slang threw me off a bit, Tarttelin's ability to narrate a male main character is quite impressive. I really really liked the main character, Flick. A couple times I caught myself thinking that I liked him so much because a woman wrote his character, and she knows exactly what someone like me would like to see in a male character. Don't get me wrong, Flick's character is still portrayed as a typical teenage boy, and he sure as hell acts and thinks like one. I think this whole idea is pretty brilliant.
I think this novel had the right amount of everything in it. The beginning shocked me a little, but the way Tartellin describes sex scenes is really quite alluring; a perfect amount of crudeness and sweetness all mixed together to create a harmonious balance. The story progresses, and it moves into Flick becoming more interested in love than just sex. Flick's feelings for Rainbow were very endearing, and Tartellin is so good at describing his thoughts to the reader.
I didn't really expect the story to go very far, and it didn't. That's okay with me. I loved reading this sweet, funny, and somewhat depressing little novel about Flick's life.
Tarttelin is a very talented writer. Although some of the English slang threw me off a bit, Tarttelin's ability to narrate a male main character is quite impressive. I really really liked the main character, Flick. A couple times I caught myself thinking that I liked him so much because a woman wrote his character, and she knows exactly what someone like me would like to see in a male character. Don't get me wrong, Flick's character is still portrayed as a typical teenage boy, and he sure as hell acts and thinks like one. I think this whole idea is pretty brilliant.
I think this novel had the right amount of everything in it. The beginning shocked me a little, but the way Tartellin describes sex scenes is really quite alluring; a perfect amount of crudeness and sweetness all mixed together to create a harmonious balance. The story progresses, and it moves into Flick becoming more interested in love than just sex. Flick's feelings for Rainbow were very endearing, and Tartellin is so good at describing his thoughts to the reader.
I didn't really expect the story to go very far, and it didn't. That's okay with me. I loved reading this sweet, funny, and somewhat depressing little novel about Flick's life.
August 24, 2015
The reader really understands the angst that Will Flick experiences as a 15 year old teen growing up in a working class neighbourhood. He has his peers to deal with and also tries to focus on his relationship with his girlfriend Rainbow. The language used by Will and his "friends" provides a sense of their class background. Although the story line is not linear, we appreciate that daily life is obviously not neat and tidy.
We may wonder if Flick's aimlessness is due to his upbringing and this assumption is dispelled by Flick himself. "Fucking hell. A year ago I felt like she did about everything. I'm not like the others. I don't come from a terrible home; there's a lot of love in it. But then maybe nobody else comes from a terrible home either and it just looks to me like they do 'cause I only see them in public. Even Kyle has tea with his mam at the table. And we do too. My mam and dad and me. Family time. But then it's a stupid idea that the breakdown of the nuclear family is the root cause of all our problems, 'cause look at Rainbow's family. They're not "normal" as such and she's pretty perfect, even about the adoption, 'cause she just gets on with life. She is so fucking lovely. I guess maybe we just have to accept at some point that our problems are our own fault and start dealing with them."
Thank you GoodReads for the book.
We may wonder if Flick's aimlessness is due to his upbringing and this assumption is dispelled by Flick himself. "Fucking hell. A year ago I felt like she did about everything. I'm not like the others. I don't come from a terrible home; there's a lot of love in it. But then maybe nobody else comes from a terrible home either and it just looks to me like they do 'cause I only see them in public. Even Kyle has tea with his mam at the table. And we do too. My mam and dad and me. Family time. But then it's a stupid idea that the breakdown of the nuclear family is the root cause of all our problems, 'cause look at Rainbow's family. They're not "normal" as such and she's pretty perfect, even about the adoption, 'cause she just gets on with life. She is so fucking lovely. I guess maybe we just have to accept at some point that our problems are our own fault and start dealing with them."
Thank you GoodReads for the book.
March 20, 2016
Disclosure: I won this book on goodreads.
This was the first book I have ever read by Abigail Tarrttelin. It was a very easy YA read. Very easy to get into and was a quick read for me.
I had a bit of a hard time connecting with the setting. But all in all I did enjoy the book.
Will AKA Flick is a 15 year old boy stuck in small town life. Living weeks through getting stoned and school and weekends drinking and doing drugs in the 'fast lane' with his friends. He has lots of ambition but like most 15 year old's he tends to be a little short fallen when it comes to what to do with those ambitions.
He has numerous flash backs during the story telling of the book, remembering details of how he did certain things, how he learned certain things, what his friends were doing etc.
Rainbow, she was quite interesting. Her name was neat. I thought it was cute how they met, while he was making fun of her name but instead of her being upset and taking it out of him, she totally turned the situation around to make it funny on him.
Again interesting read.
This was the first book I have ever read by Abigail Tarrttelin. It was a very easy YA read. Very easy to get into and was a quick read for me.
I had a bit of a hard time connecting with the setting. But all in all I did enjoy the book.
Will AKA Flick is a 15 year old boy stuck in small town life. Living weeks through getting stoned and school and weekends drinking and doing drugs in the 'fast lane' with his friends. He has lots of ambition but like most 15 year old's he tends to be a little short fallen when it comes to what to do with those ambitions.
He has numerous flash backs during the story telling of the book, remembering details of how he did certain things, how he learned certain things, what his friends were doing etc.
Rainbow, she was quite interesting. Her name was neat. I thought it was cute how they met, while he was making fun of her name but instead of her being upset and taking it out of him, she totally turned the situation around to make it funny on him.
Again interesting read.
May 18, 2015
Author's Name
Abigail Tarttelin
Publication Date
May 19, 2015
Synopsis
Will "Flick" Flicker was just killing time ibetween getting high n his podunk hometown until she came along. Rainbow. Suddenly the world seemed his for the taking. But will his hometown let him get away?
High Points
If I was a teenage boy with raging hormones and a lack of motivation, I'd sound just like Flick. His voice is not only believable, but spot on. Tarttelin's writing is edgy and honest while still lyrical at times. The tone made me slightly nostalgic for my own teen years way back in the 1990's.
Low Points
The conflict felt a bit contrived for me. Although it works in the story, it felt like it had been done before. The disenchanted youth angle was heavy-handed at times.
You'll love it if...
...you like a little angst with your teen romance. ...you have a thing for charming, but troubled guys.
Overall
3.5 Stars
E-Galley received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. For more reviews by the Readist, please visit www.thereadist.com.
Abigail Tarttelin
Publication Date
May 19, 2015
Synopsis
Will "Flick" Flicker was just killing time ibetween getting high n his podunk hometown until she came along. Rainbow. Suddenly the world seemed his for the taking. But will his hometown let him get away?
High Points
If I was a teenage boy with raging hormones and a lack of motivation, I'd sound just like Flick. His voice is not only believable, but spot on. Tarttelin's writing is edgy and honest while still lyrical at times. The tone made me slightly nostalgic for my own teen years way back in the 1990's.
Low Points
The conflict felt a bit contrived for me. Although it works in the story, it felt like it had been done before. The disenchanted youth angle was heavy-handed at times.
You'll love it if...
...you like a little angst with your teen romance. ...you have a thing for charming, but troubled guys.
Overall
3.5 Stars
E-Galley received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. For more reviews by the Readist, please visit www.thereadist.com.
September 15, 2016
On the whole, I enjoyed this book.
It was a little messy and there were lot of characters I was supposed to remember, but... I think it adds to the charm and accentuates the feel of the book. It's from the perspective of Flick, and you want to feel like Flick - no matter how good or bad that may be.
I wish we'd had more backstory on Rainbow (specifically why the fuck is she called Rainbow), but again, it's Flick's perspective, so we're only given as much as Flick cares about, and I can understand that.
I really liked a few of the characters, specifically Kyle, Mike, and Dildo (essentially, the funniest/nicest of the bunch), and... I didn't really hate anyone? I usually would; there's a definite antagonist, but this is written from a perspective which makes you sympathise, even with the 'mean' characters. It's a great book for changing hasty unkind opinions on lower class families.
Basically; not as good as Golden Boy, but I wasn't expecting it to be. It did live up to the expectations I had for it, and I liked it.
It was a little messy and there were lot of characters I was supposed to remember, but... I think it adds to the charm and accentuates the feel of the book. It's from the perspective of Flick, and you want to feel like Flick - no matter how good or bad that may be.
I wish we'd had more backstory on Rainbow (specifically why the fuck is she called Rainbow), but again, it's Flick's perspective, so we're only given as much as Flick cares about, and I can understand that.
I really liked a few of the characters, specifically Kyle, Mike, and Dildo (essentially, the funniest/nicest of the bunch), and... I didn't really hate anyone? I usually would; there's a definite antagonist, but this is written from a perspective which makes you sympathise, even with the 'mean' characters. It's a great book for changing hasty unkind opinions on lower class families.
Basically; not as good as Golden Boy, but I wasn't expecting it to be. It did live up to the expectations I had for it, and I liked it.
August 22, 2015
I won a copy of this book through Goodreads First Reads, courtesy of Simon & Schuster Canada.
This is a coming of age story set in England about a teenage-age stoner. At first, he has no goals or ambition after high school, and just living his life day to day. Then he meets a girl named Rainbow, who gives him a different perspective on life. Things are great, until he encounters a problem somewhat related to his old way of living.
At first, the novel started out strong, and I enjoyed the beginning, but then it started slowing down. Eventually, near the end, it did get better, but it was difficult for me to get through the middle of the book.
Nevertheless, I slightly enjoyed the cynical tone of the story. It really gave more life to Flick, and his character. Also, the slang adds to it as well. Although he was suppose to be in his teenage years, his thoughts are pretty deep for his age. Overall, it's a pretty good read.
This is a coming of age story set in England about a teenage-age stoner. At first, he has no goals or ambition after high school, and just living his life day to day. Then he meets a girl named Rainbow, who gives him a different perspective on life. Things are great, until he encounters a problem somewhat related to his old way of living.
At first, the novel started out strong, and I enjoyed the beginning, but then it started slowing down. Eventually, near the end, it did get better, but it was difficult for me to get through the middle of the book.
Nevertheless, I slightly enjoyed the cynical tone of the story. It really gave more life to Flick, and his character. Also, the slang adds to it as well. Although he was suppose to be in his teenage years, his thoughts are pretty deep for his age. Overall, it's a pretty good read.
June 21, 2016
I won a copy of this book thru a first reads giveaway. It was a fairly quick read, I did find myslef kinda skimming over some pages rather than fully reading each word. Not to say that I skipped pages but just went over them quickly.
It was interesting reading a YA novel from a male point of view. I have just started reading this genre and it was enjoyable. Some areas were harder to follow along the story line though. Life in a small seaside town in England doesn't seem that far off from a small town here in Canada. Different slang and schooling levels not much else though. I did enjoy the book and probably will end up rereading it at a future date.
It was interesting reading a YA novel from a male point of view. I have just started reading this genre and it was enjoyable. Some areas were harder to follow along the story line though. Life in a small seaside town in England doesn't seem that far off from a small town here in Canada. Different slang and schooling levels not much else though. I did enjoy the book and probably will end up rereading it at a future date.
Lesen
July 27, 2013Graded By: Jenny
Cover Story: I'm Taking This Cover And Putting It Over ALL The Books
BFF Charm: With Trepidation
Swoonworthy Scale: 7
Talky Talk: Trainspotting, Jr.
Bonus Factor: Marske-by-the-sea
Relationship Status: I Met This Book In Detention
Read the full book report here.
Cover Story: I'm Taking This Cover And Putting It Over ALL The Books
BFF Charm: With Trepidation
Swoonworthy Scale: 7
Talky Talk: Trainspotting, Jr.
Bonus Factor: Marske-by-the-sea
Relationship Status: I Met This Book In Detention
Read the full book report here.
June 28, 2018
I won this book from Goodreads.
Unfortunately, I didn’t love it. I guess I just wasn’t in the mood for it because it took me two weeks to read it. Flick seems like it would be a fast read. It’s not too long and it’s good. I just couldn’t stick with it for some reason. Normally I love characters like Flick and love books like this one, but Flick and his friends just said a lot of stuff that annoyed me. However, I really did like Rainbow. She was great.
Unfortunately, I didn’t love it. I guess I just wasn’t in the mood for it because it took me two weeks to read it. Flick seems like it would be a fast read. It’s not too long and it’s good. I just couldn’t stick with it for some reason. Normally I love characters like Flick and love books like this one, but Flick and his friends just said a lot of stuff that annoyed me. However, I really did like Rainbow. She was great.
June 20, 2015
I received a copy of this book free from Goodreads giveaway.
Teenage sarcasm at it's best. A coming-of-age story from a male p.o.v. with realistic events in a teenager's life. Written in a "matter of fact" manner with a great ending. Many LOL moments.
I do hope Abigail Tarttelin writes a sequel based on Rainbow-very interest in reading more about her character.
Recommended to those who don't worry about "age" genres for books. Entertaining read.
Teenage sarcasm at it's best. A coming-of-age story from a male p.o.v. with realistic events in a teenager's life. Written in a "matter of fact" manner with a great ending. Many LOL moments.
I do hope Abigail Tarttelin writes a sequel based on Rainbow-very interest in reading more about her character.
Recommended to those who don't worry about "age" genres for books. Entertaining read.
August 29, 2011
As a male, I'm reading this book and start to think - this author knows man thoughts and feelings (physically as well as mentally) better than me - a man! From self image, provocative thoughts, emotions, to sex itself, all is covered in great realism from both teenage genders point-of-view in the complex and and simplistic way that is life...brilliant!
January 9, 2022
Flick is a nakedly honest tale of a young boy in London dealing with his first love. It was sweet, funny, brutal, and completely addicting. It's hard not to fall in love with Flick in all his quirkiness and charm. It isn't cliched or predictable, it is a complete original -- just like Flick. It's perfect if you're looking for a quick summer read (literally -- I read it in an afternoon)
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