This review originally posted at More Than Just Magic 
 The Reluctant Journal of Henry K Larsen was not the book I expected it to be. I had another copy of a Susin Nielsen book - Dear George Clooney: Please Marry My Mom - before received this one and judging from it's synopsis and her creative titles, I thought I was in for a nice light read, and maybe a few laughs. 
 A did get few laughs but a "nice light read"? Not even close. 
 Don't get me wrong. This isn't a criticism. If it had been the book I expected, I probably would have flown through it, enjoyed it, but then it would simply become one of those books that sit on the shelf, forgotten among a sea of titles. Instead, this book is forever cemented in my memory. It made me cry, it made me angry, it made me want to curl up with my puppy until I felt okay again. 
 In light of all the conversations happening right now about gun violence and bullying, The Reluctant Journal of Henry K Larsen could not be more timely. Henry Larsen is the brother of a bully victim AND also the perpetrator of a violent crime. Told in the form of Henry's journal entries, I think this book does an amazing job of exploring the situation for a variety of perspectives and ideas. The Larsen family, the victim's family, the media, the community. This book is a fair and honest account. I don't think it makes any excuses for anything that happens, but does it's best to present all the information and let the reader decide for themselves. 
 That being said, it's hard not to like Henry. He's charming but also afraid. I wanted to be his friend but I also wanted to wrapped my arms around him and squeeze as tightly as possible. I instantly felt like I could relate to him - especially since we were both Reach for the Top members (trivia for the win!). Susin Nielsen nails his voice. He seemed so real when I was reading - at times it really felt like I had stolen some poor boy's journal. 
 I think The Reluctant Journal of Henry K Larsen is an important book for students to read. Especially those struggling with bullying, or those simply trying to fit in. I also think it's an important book for parents and teachers to read. This book confronts a lot of issues that we all should be thinking about and it would be an excellent way to get the conversation started. And it's a Canadian setting! This may not seem like a big deal, but little references to things like the Superstore, Reach for the Top and familiar cities, could really help this book resonate with Canadian students. It may help them realize that these things can happen here too and not just in far away cities. 
 Recommendation: The Reluctant Journal of Henry K Larsen is more than just a memorable read. It's a life changing, necessary read and I personally think that it should be on hand in every high school across Canada. But be warned - you may find tears rolling down your cheeks before the book is through.