ARC Review Being Henry David by Cal Armistead

Being Henry David by Cal Armistead
Release Date: February 15 2013
Publisher: Albert Whitman Teen
Format: ARC Paperback
Pages:270
Genre: YA/Contemporary
Challenges: YA Contemporary Challenge
Source: Publisher

Goodreads Synopsis:
Seventeen-year-old "Hank" has found himself at Penn Station in New York City with no memory of anything --who he is, where he came from, why he's running away. His only possession is a worn copy of Walden, by Henry David Thoreau. And so he becomes Henry David-or "Hank" and takes first to the streets, and then to the only destination he can think of--Walden Pond in Concord, Massachusetts. Cal Armistead's remarkable debut novel is about a teen in search of himself. Hank begins to piece together recollections from his past. The only way Hank can discover his present is to face up to the realities of his grievous memories. He must come to terms with the tragedy of his past, to stop running, and to find his way home.


My Thoughts:
I was really intrigued by this one. I read it in one day. There is something extremely compelling about this story and I still haven't been able to put my finger on it. Hank has been trying to find himself ever since he woke up in New York. He has no idea who he is or where he comes from. One book changes his life and allows him to come to terms with who he is.

This was a really really good book. The suspense throughout as you try to figure out and piece together Hanks life keeps you on the edge of your seat. It was extremely emotional as well. There is so much to learn from this book. The main being that you cannot run from the past or yourself. No matter how hard you try.  Coming to terms with who you are and what you have done even under the worst circumstances.

Hank is a complex character. He is trying so hard to peice together his life. While trying to figure out who he is and what he has done he also finds himself at the same time. His search for answers and the truth leads him to discover a whole new side of himself.

I cannot go into to much detail with this review without giving away the entire book. But if you are looking for a good redemption and self healing  story then this is one you will want to read.