Bruiser

By Ian Chorao

Book Overview

After spending another morning hiding in the clothes hamper eavesdropping on his miserable parents, Bruiser realizes it's time to change his life. It's New York City during the late 1970s, and in the middle of a chilly autumn night he takes to the open road with Darla, a kindred spirit who lives across the alleyway. Their flight from the mounting tensions of home -- an adventure dotted with frightening episodes and surprising revelations -- is a journey in search of liberation and emotional truth.

This is Bruiser's tale in his own words, captured by first-time novelist Ian Chor o with uncanny precision and an ear for the staccato rhythms of childhood consciousness. Refreshingly free of sentimentality, Bruiser confronts the darkness and violence of life even as it illuminates its wonder and sweetness.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0743437764
• ISBN13: 9780743437769
• Release Date: March 2004
• Publisher: Atria Books
• Length: 357 Pages
• Weight: 0.75 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.5" x 8.6"

Customer Reviews

stunning, moving

I read this book in one sitting! I forgot to eat, I missed a movie date. There was no way to tear myself away. It's just that good!

great story great style

Bruiser is the best novel I have read in some time. One cannot put this book down, you can't possibly tear yourself away from this very real and heartbreaking journey of Bruiser and Darla. Mr Chorao has a captivating and unique style. I look forward to reading his future work.

Captivating

I thoroughly enjoyed the realism and readability of this book - I couldn't put it down. The author did a fantastic job developing Bruiser's character, and from beginning to end you have the unique experience of viewing the world through the eyes of another. The main character was hopelessly tragic, and yet sadly realistic. Having grow up in the Bronx during the same period of time, the story is all too close to the truth. Encore Mr. Chorao!

A beautifully written page turner!

I highly recommend BRUISER. I could not put it down! Chorao's writing is spare and honest. He somehow manages to make us feel like we're seeing life through the eyes of Bruiser, a nine-year old boy, while giving us very adults insights into the world and flights into revelatory territory. I found this book extremely moving, compelling and nearly pitch perfect. 5 stars from me!