Official Review: Playing Hurt by Gerald L Nardella

[Surabhi Rani]

The reviewer injects life to the 'Official Review: Playing Hurt by Gerald L Nardella', from the words, 'Despite the reputation of female characters written by male author being shallow caricatures, I was able to see myself in Deanie and her friends.' I like the way the reviewer ties together issues raised in the book.

[Mely918]

This book seems like an amazing portrayal on the societal pressures that both men and women face, especially during their turbulent teenage years. I'm especially intrigued by Brian's character. I feel like we usually don't pay as much attention to the things that guys go through in their attempts to fit in with everyone else. This book could help open up our eyes more to both perspectives.

[MiziS_1305]

Though I don't engage in High School drama, I find this one different due to the topics it is dealing with like misogyny. Also, while reading the sample beginning was humorous with the guy's pants going red. Thanks for such a wonderful review.

[Sicily Joy]

It is rare that stories deal with the issues of sex and gender policies in a sophisticated matter. These are important matters for teenagers to discuss and read about. This sounds like a good read for young adults and adults looking to delve into some deep topics. Thank you for a great review.

[Ana-Maria-Diana]

The characters are well described and the plot reminds me of highschool years.

[dkimutai]

life of teenagers have full power,full support and can be tempting,here we have peer pressure,sex n how teenager lifestyle can be during those days you can feel it,for the old it reminds you of the damn days and for the younger generation for what you are going through,bestat its best

[Ashiyya Tariq]

The story is quit interesting and intriguing. All characters are well developed. The story interestingly pours light on adolescence issues.Great review.

[asaltares]

I always wish I could lived in those times of the 50's or 60s. This book is appealing for that. And what better than in the adolescence time with all the trouble and tabus of that age when it comes to sex and relationships. And school rivalry is just frosting in the cake for me. Congratulations.

[Amusan Lawrence]

A story based on teenage life in a small town in Texas in 1960-61 and a few nights that will change the lives of Brian,Deanie and Dick forever. This also reminds me of my teenage times

[Moureenkaranu]

Thanks for such a great review. The book sounds interesting and educative in matters concerning peer pressure. I will definitely read the book

[Hannahrg]

The official review gave an in-depth discussion of what to expect in the 116 pages of Playing Hurt without giving any spoilers. Mostly, based on the review it focuses on relationships, dating, and sex in a more serious manner. Nowadays, peer pressure is extremely prevalent in the communities and schools that it oftentimes leads to depression or suicidal tendencies for the normal teen who's struggling to make it through in life. I honestly believe that this book is worth reading and saving on the shelves to educate one's self on the complexities of mature relationships, love, and life.

[ShailaSheshadri]

Thanks for the wonderful review. It sounds like Playing Hurt has a plot set in the 1960s. I believe gender roles and gender expectations are the commonly discussed matters in any society and also, at all time periods. It's crazy to treat women like a property. It's obvious that the story is relatable to the teenagers and adults. Nice to know that the novel entertained you.

[Shrabastee Chakraborty]

Teenage peer pressure and sexual conflicts are probably inherent of every high school drama. But as stated in the review, this book takes these much-narrated issues to a different level by showing how men are affected by this "toxic masculinity". That is not an area the high school dramas generally feature. I would also like to see if what we are accustomed with in today's high schools are any different in the '60s setting. Thanks for the insightful review.

[Shas F]

ViziVoir's review of Gerald L. Nardella's Playing Hurt competently summarizes what makes the book tick, why it works and what to expect from the novel. This is not just another teen romance novel set in the 1960s with some coming-of-age element to it. In 116 pages, it boldly takes on "sexuality, misogyny, and toxic masculinity," and has protagonists that are all too human, with all of the contradictions, flaws, energy, vitality and the dangerous dark sides of the young. Football player Brian is from a broken home and tends to become possessive of cheerleader Deanie, who is also being hounded by an ex, Bill. Playing Hurt depicts the character Deanie at a time when she's becoming a woman aware of her sexual desires while knowing fully well she has to protect and take care of herself. ViziVoir tells us the book is not a "happy" one because of its serious themes but it packs a lot of punch and is highly recommended for young readers just starting to deal with relationships and self-esteem issues in the real world. Hopefully, Deanie and Brian will eventually deal with their demons, as well as find confidence and solid footing on a path towards adulthood. Thanks ViziVoir for the great heads up!

[Cristina Chifane]

Thank you for making the storyline a bit more explicit. I've read the sample and I was not particularly impressed with the author's style, but maybe this coming-of-age novel and the challenging topics it addresses would appeal to other readers.