What do you think?
Rate this book
Charlie-Man
It’s August 1994, and Charlie Stewart begins his final year at St. Mark’s Episcopal School, a prestigious all-boys school in Richmond, Virginia. Charlie, an undistinguished student by St. Mark’s standards, faces tough odds as he seeks to rekindle his relationship with Katy Hendricks, a beautiful tennis star, and gain admission to a highly selective state university.
Through it all, Charlie relies on Beau Miller, his best friend and the top student athlete in their class. Despite Beau’s movie-star looks and infectious charm, he has a darker side, which becomes more apparent as the year progresses.
Charlie endures his trials with wry determination and ultimately emerges with a renewed sense of purpose. This is a heartrending but hopeful story of one boy’s journey toward manhood in the American South.
Through it all, Charlie relies on Beau Miller, his best friend and the top student athlete in their class. Despite Beau’s movie-star looks and infectious charm, he has a darker side, which becomes more apparent as the year progresses.
Charlie endures his trials with wry determination and ultimately emerges with a renewed sense of purpose. This is a heartrending but hopeful story of one boy’s journey toward manhood in the American South.
220 pages, Paperback
Published July 15, 2025
4 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
July 31, 2025
Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking the link below. It is also posted in full.
https://novelsalive.com/2025/07/31/5-...
Charlie-Man is a debut novel for author Thomas Cullen, and I look forward to reading more of his books. The Young Adult/Teen genre is not a genre I read very often, but I thoroughly enjoyed this read.
Charlie and his best friend, Beau, are the leads in this coming-of-age story, and I was riveted from the first page to the last. There were vivid descriptions to set the scenes, and all my senses were involved. They are in their last year of high school at a private all-boys prep school in Virginia. We get to know some of their friends, teachers, and families, along with how they function. We are immersed in Charlie’s life and what his days are like, and who his support system is. Losing his father was unexpected, and that definitely had an impact on his entire family.
Charlie’s emotions are exposed to us throughout, and I often found myself getting very emotional while reading it. We see his triumphs and where he struggles, his relationship with others, including his sometimes girlfriend, Katy. There are highs and lows throughout, and the author does a wonderful job of showing Charlie’s feelings and demeanor when dealing with different events.
The author threads several storylines, intertwining them throughout the main arc, highlighting numerous emotional events. As observers, we watch as Charlie begins to make decisions that will shape his future as an adult, including choosing a college and career path. But throughout, he is kind to everyone until he faces a betrayal. There is closure with an ending that I wasn’t expecting.
Charlie-Man is a wonderfully written debut novel that immerses readers in a teen’s life and makes us feel like we are standing on the sidelines and feeling all the emotions that Charlie cycles through.
https://novelsalive.com/2025/07/31/5-...
Charlie-Man is a debut novel for author Thomas Cullen, and I look forward to reading more of his books. The Young Adult/Teen genre is not a genre I read very often, but I thoroughly enjoyed this read.
Charlie and his best friend, Beau, are the leads in this coming-of-age story, and I was riveted from the first page to the last. There were vivid descriptions to set the scenes, and all my senses were involved. They are in their last year of high school at a private all-boys prep school in Virginia. We get to know some of their friends, teachers, and families, along with how they function. We are immersed in Charlie’s life and what his days are like, and who his support system is. Losing his father was unexpected, and that definitely had an impact on his entire family.
Charlie’s emotions are exposed to us throughout, and I often found myself getting very emotional while reading it. We see his triumphs and where he struggles, his relationship with others, including his sometimes girlfriend, Katy. There are highs and lows throughout, and the author does a wonderful job of showing Charlie’s feelings and demeanor when dealing with different events.
The author threads several storylines, intertwining them throughout the main arc, highlighting numerous emotional events. As observers, we watch as Charlie begins to make decisions that will shape his future as an adult, including choosing a college and career path. But throughout, he is kind to everyone until he faces a betrayal. There is closure with an ending that I wasn’t expecting.
Charlie-Man is a wonderfully written debut novel that immerses readers in a teen’s life and makes us feel like we are standing on the sidelines and feeling all the emotions that Charlie cycles through.
September 3, 2025
Reading "Charlie-Man" by Thomas Cullen felt like stepping into a real and emotional journey of growing up. The story takes place in a 1990s Richmond prep school and follows Charlie Stewart, a quiet senior still grieving the loss of his father. He’s trying to figure out who he is while surrounded by wealthy classmates from old Southern families. What I liked most was the mix of humor, sadness, and everyday teenage struggles—romance, sports, and friendship. Charlie’s bond with his best friend Beau really stood out, showing both the strength and complications of true friendship.
The book is full of vivid teenage moments—like daring river jumps, sneaking into hidden places, and the excitement (and danger) of taking risks. These scenes felt alive and captured the mix of fear and freedom that comes with being young. At the same time, Cullen shows the bigger issues of class differences and social pressure in Richmond, which made the story feel very real. I could easily imagine the prep school halls, the neighborhoods, and the weight of trying to belong.
Some of the hardest parts to read were Charlie’s summer job at the camp stables. The early mornings and hard work were tough enough, but the bullying and abuse he suffered from Mason Zimmerman were shocking and painful. The scene in the grain bin especially stayed with me—it showed just how cruel people can be, but also how strong Charlie was to survive it. These parts added a lot of depth to his journey, showing how hardship shapes character.
Later, the story turns even more emotional with Charlie’s family life. His father’s illness and passing, his mother’s grief, and Charlie’s attempt to find joy with friends gave the book a powerful and heartfelt ending. To me, Charlie-Man isn’t just a school story—it’s about grief, friendship, courage, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going. It’s a book that feels honest and human, reminding us that growing up is never simple, but hope can still shine through.
The book is full of vivid teenage moments—like daring river jumps, sneaking into hidden places, and the excitement (and danger) of taking risks. These scenes felt alive and captured the mix of fear and freedom that comes with being young. At the same time, Cullen shows the bigger issues of class differences and social pressure in Richmond, which made the story feel very real. I could easily imagine the prep school halls, the neighborhoods, and the weight of trying to belong.
Some of the hardest parts to read were Charlie’s summer job at the camp stables. The early mornings and hard work were tough enough, but the bullying and abuse he suffered from Mason Zimmerman were shocking and painful. The scene in the grain bin especially stayed with me—it showed just how cruel people can be, but also how strong Charlie was to survive it. These parts added a lot of depth to his journey, showing how hardship shapes character.
Later, the story turns even more emotional with Charlie’s family life. His father’s illness and passing, his mother’s grief, and Charlie’s attempt to find joy with friends gave the book a powerful and heartfelt ending. To me, Charlie-Man isn’t just a school story—it’s about grief, friendship, courage, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going. It’s a book that feels honest and human, reminding us that growing up is never simple, but hope can still shine through.
May 16, 2025
A Haunting Reflection on Friendship and the Loss of Innocence – A Review of Charlie-Man
In Charlie-Man, Thomas Cullen masterfully transports readers to a time before social media, when summer nights stretched endlessly and friendships were forged face-to-face, not through screens. It’s a world of sticky August air, reckless riverbank adventures, and the pivotal moments that linger long after youth fades. Cullen’s evocative prose brings that era to life — a simpler yet emotionally intense time when every bond felt unbreakable and every betrayal, unforgettable.
For Charlie Stewart, the summer spent as a junior counselor at Camp Tomahawk serves as a crucible of hard lessons — a place where innocence collides with the brutal reality of power, peer pressure, and hidden cruelty. Cullen delves into the trauma of bullying and the haunting aftershocks of betrayal, reminding us how these formative experiences continue to shape us into adulthood. As Charlie grapples with the loss of his father and the unraveling of his closest friendship, readers are drawn into a raw, visceral exploration of what it means to come of age amidst pain and confusion.
What makes Charlie-Man such a compelling read — and a natural fit for book clubs — is its ability to provoke rich, layered discussions about youth, trauma, and the bonds that break or bend under pressure. Cullen’s narrative resonates deeply, evoking those moments when life felt intense, when friendships defined our world, and when every secret carried the weight of the world. It’s the kind of book that begs to be discussed, dissected, and shared — a raw, nostalgic, and thought-provoking read that reminds us of what it felt like to truly live in the moment, unencumbered by screens — and how those moments still shape us today.
— Richard
In Charlie-Man, Thomas Cullen masterfully transports readers to a time before social media, when summer nights stretched endlessly and friendships were forged face-to-face, not through screens. It’s a world of sticky August air, reckless riverbank adventures, and the pivotal moments that linger long after youth fades. Cullen’s evocative prose brings that era to life — a simpler yet emotionally intense time when every bond felt unbreakable and every betrayal, unforgettable.
For Charlie Stewart, the summer spent as a junior counselor at Camp Tomahawk serves as a crucible of hard lessons — a place where innocence collides with the brutal reality of power, peer pressure, and hidden cruelty. Cullen delves into the trauma of bullying and the haunting aftershocks of betrayal, reminding us how these formative experiences continue to shape us into adulthood. As Charlie grapples with the loss of his father and the unraveling of his closest friendship, readers are drawn into a raw, visceral exploration of what it means to come of age amidst pain and confusion.
What makes Charlie-Man such a compelling read — and a natural fit for book clubs — is its ability to provoke rich, layered discussions about youth, trauma, and the bonds that break or bend under pressure. Cullen’s narrative resonates deeply, evoking those moments when life felt intense, when friendships defined our world, and when every secret carried the weight of the world. It’s the kind of book that begs to be discussed, dissected, and shared — a raw, nostalgic, and thought-provoking read that reminds us of what it felt like to truly live in the moment, unencumbered by screens — and how those moments still shape us today.
— Richard
May 15, 2025
Charlie-Man is an excellent coming-of-age story. I was fortunate to read a pre-release version of the book, and it’s a wonderful telling of that special time in a young man’s life that is full of possibility, pain, love, disappointment, and the vestiges of childhood giving way to adulthood. The author is clearly writing from and about a place he knows and loves, and the story crackles with authenticity. The book, both its content and tone, reminded me of the best of Pat Conroy when he was writing about Charleston; clearly Mr. Cullen has the same fondness for Richmond. While the book may end up marketed as YA, I think it’s a great read for anyone who remembers a specific time in their life—your final months in high school before life beckons you on—with fondness. You won’t be disappointed with the time you spend in Charlie-Man’s world!
July 16, 2025
Charlie-Man explores the grief, loss and little joys of boyhood that leave an indelible mark on the story's protagonist as he finishes his senior year of high school. Cullen's novel doesn't sugarcoat the pain of adolescence but offers a glimpse into what high school is really like. Charlie is still mourning the death of his father and grappling with his own shortcomings and a nagging darkness that he can't seem to shake. Cullen takes us along as he writes about the anxieties that accompany young love, family dynamics and life-long friendships. He reminds us what it's like to be a teenager with insecurities and the gradual, reluctant self-awareness that comes with personal growth and maturity; Charlie eventually realizes that he is not broken but just beginning to better understand himself and the world around him.
A wonderful debut novel. I can't wait to read more!
A wonderful debut novel. I can't wait to read more!
August 7, 2025
"Charlie-Man" by Thomas Cullen is an emotional and beautifully crafted narrative that follows the complexities of its titular character, Charlie. Cullen skillfully explores themes of love, loss, and resilience, inviting readers into Charlie's poignant journey. The prose is vivid and reflective, highlighting both struggles and triumphs. With its rich character development and heartfelt moments, this book resonates powerfully, evoking empathy and understanding. "Charlie-Man" is a compelling read that celebrates the strength found in vulnerability and connection
October 10, 2025
Charlie-Man is the captivating coming-of-age story of a young man navigating the highs and lows of his high school adolescence and all that comes with it. Nostalgia abounds as Cullen brings to life a cast of interlocking characters in 1990s Richmond and its environs. Accompany Charlie-Man on his winding journey—experience with him moments of great joy and youthful excitement, and suffer with him moments of deep pain and disappointment. Prepare to flip the pages ever faster as together you approach the end of this journey, more prepared for the next.
July 29, 2025
What a pleasant read. A true coming of age set in beautiful Virginia. You can actually feel what young Charlie was experiencing. Also nice to acknowledge and read about teenage boys struggles and having a wonderful role model of support to help guide Charlie through those troubles. Also a nice trip down the 90s time frame. Highly recommend this book.
September 17, 2025
Charlie-Man is a heartfelt, nostalgic coming-of-age story that captures the highs and lows of senior year in the 1990s in Richmond, VA. Charlie is a wonderfully relatable character, and his friendships and struggles feel real and moving. Thomas Cullen writes with warmth and nostalgia, and I enjoyed the references to Richmond,VA
Read
October 21, 2025Charlie-Man is a profound and engaging read, with a nostalgic tone that makes it ideal for reading and discussion with young adults, new adults, and older adults alike. Read my full review: https://loom.ly/5Fa7eM4
July 17, 2025
I couldn’t put this book down. It tackles serious topics with thought-provoking sincerity, and also is a romp through senior year for the upper echelon of Richmond, VA prep school kids.
July 21, 2025
I’m not usually the person to leave reviews, but I thought I’d make an exception for this book. Charlie-Man brought me back into the world of reading for fun, and unlike the required books I’ve read for school, I genuinely wanted to turn the pages. The author did an exceptional job of maintaining an exciting pace, and keeping me engaged from start to finish. This was definitely one of my favorite reads in a while, and I look forward to hopefully a new release by Thomas Cullen down the road.
August 23, 2025
This was the best book I have read in a long time. It kept me on the edge of my seat and always wanting to read more. Highly recommend.
October 20, 2025
A truly enjoyable and worthwhile read. A coming of age novel that is appropriate for young adults, yet thoroughly resonates with anyone who was in high school in the 1990s. Cullen takes us into the honest struggles and complexities of growth into manhood through Charlie’s eyes (and heart), but in the end redefines, for Charlie and for us, what it means to be a real man….
Highly recommended!!
Highly recommended!!
October 8, 2025
I’m tempted to not rate this one per my policy of not rating memories, as it feels very much in that genre. But it’s fiction, and will be of particular interest for nostalgic Richmonders and Virginians. Having rubbed shoulders with many of these folks, the feel of this book resonated with me even as it felt somewhat removed.
I don’t expect high school boys to be attached to their feelings that well, and I suppose that helped because it felt like many aspects of this book with the greatest potential for emotional resonance didn’t quite have the effect they could have. That said, it provides food for thought on what matters most in life, so I’d recommend it to the right reader and will ponder it more in the days that follow.
We matter to one another. What a gift.
I don’t expect high school boys to be attached to their feelings that well, and I suppose that helped because it felt like many aspects of this book with the greatest potential for emotional resonance didn’t quite have the effect they could have. That said, it provides food for thought on what matters most in life, so I’d recommend it to the right reader and will ponder it more in the days that follow.
We matter to one another. What a gift.
May 16, 2025
Having grown up in Richmond, Virginia in the 90s, I was both curious and skeptical when I picked up Thomas Cullen's debut novel. Richmond is a quirky place, rich in complicated history. Cullen nails it. Charlie-Man is an engrossing page-turner that brought me back to the many joys and stresses of high school. Perhaps most impressive is Cullen's courageous examination of the narrator's serious anxiety and depression and his powerful relationship with his therapist and coach. I highly recommend this beautifully written book. -WHR
September 13, 2025
I have nothing bad to say about this book at all! I love that it took place in the 90’s, it reminded me of my childhood in a lot of little moments! It was easy to fly through this book, the author is amazing with words and descriptions! Really has a way of drawing you in- and honestly As I was reading this one I felt a sense of calm over me, every single time. Friendship, grieving, healing, strength, courage, growing and finding yourself…..this was just a wonderful book that I enjoyed and definitely recommend!
June 21, 2025
I wasn't the biggest fan of this one. The characters were more or less well written, and I enjoyed the time we spent with them. My biggest issue was with the pacing. The book was written as if the author found an old journal and just tried to fill out the entries. As a result, a lot of moments that should have had more of an emotional impact would just happen and then never really get referenced again.
All in all, I'd be really interested in reading the author's next work.
All in all, I'd be really interested in reading the author's next work.
December 30, 2025
4.2 - A thoughtful coming-of-age story that hit me with a wave of 90s nostalgia. If you grew up in the mid-90s, the little details will feel spot-on—the music, the atmosphere, the awkward intensity of being a teenager. What I loved most, though, was how strongly the book captures Richmond. The city isn’t just a backdrop; it feels alive, shaping the characters and their stories like it’s a character of its own. It’s both tender and honest about the highs and lows of growing up.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews