All of Me by Chris Baron

All of Me by Chris Baron
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ari is a big boy; he is big like his mother and grandmother, bullied, self conscious with few friends. I was compelled to journey with Ari as he sees his artist mother and salesman father's marriage fall apart, how he cherishes friendships with Pick, Jorge and Lisa and his summer with them in a seaside town. But as he is bullied Ari struggles with his image, is set upon by bullies (but does nothing to stop their punches and kicks) Ari descends even further into depression. Ari's relationship with the rabbi as he readies for his bar mitzvah was hopeful since his parents were never around and the few times he talks to the rabbi help him through his agonizing self hatred. I rooted for Ari in a world where he receives little parental help and care but finds support and worth in his friendships and himself. Deeply unsettling, compelling and much needed reading; highly recommended.

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