Inexcusable by Chris Lynch
a book review
Mrs. Cope
April 12, 2008
Inexcusable by Chris Lynch is a story that is thematically similar to Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson. The main difference is it is told from a male's perspective, in the voice of Keir Sarafian. In both Speak and Inexcusable, the flashbacks or references to a pivotal night slowly unfold, interspersed with the swirling reality of life as a high school student.
In the case of Keir, he is facing graduation, and suddenly becomes unwittingly remindful of actions that occurred during his senior year. Although Keir maintains an innocence or lack of involvement, the reader must determine the degree of Keir's culpability and validity of truth. Is he really just a good guy who doesn't do bad things? Is he a victim of circumstances? Does engaging in risky behavior absolve one of guilt and responsibility?
Bit by bit, the reader also sees the internal conflict generated by a family that appears happy on the outside, but crumbling on the inside. In some ways, Keir reminds me of Holden Caulfield in Catcher in the Rye, a college freshmen, who desperately seeks some sort of direction in his life, which can only be determined by oneself. Like Holden, Keir must face himself, acknowledge responsibility for his actions, if he is to salvage his life and achieve respect for himself and others.
Some may argue that the girl in Inexcusable is to blame. She too seems innocent, but at times provocative. There is a sense of mixed messages that both the reader and Keir receive, which is especially noticeable as the story unfolds.
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| Date | Subject | Posted by: |
|---|---|---|
| 05/02/2008 | This book is actually pretty good. I... | Emily R. |
