What do you think?
Rate this book
Dario suffers from anxiety and depression mixed with a toxic desire to please his parents. Although an overachiever in all things, he can't get the approval he craves; never believing he could be good enough for them. His friends try to help him realise he's okay as is, but nothing they do works. Eventually, something beyond his control forces Dario to the conclusion that all he'd worked for no longer mattered. Will the damage of Dario's past stop him from full acceptance or will he push through to find the man he buried.
46 pages, Paperback
Published February 14, 2020
4 people are currently reading
26 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 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 5, 2022
This was short and the first novella in a series that revolves around Dario. In this story we meet Dario and read his pov, starting when he was 5 years old and developing serious anxiety and depression. His parents are strict and religious, make him go to church and are blindsided to what their sons needs are - meaning love and care, to be noticed and acknowledged. But all they say is he should pray more and toughen up. They are also forcing their homophobic believes on him, which make him push away all the feelings he develops under the surface.
It doesn’t help that Dario is of mixed race, with his honey coloured skin and bright blue eyes.
He is just happy to have his best friends Gavin and Rayland, and his music teacher Louis and his family, who practically adopt him.
The story ends when Dario is a teenager. The next book is Gavin’s pov, taking place in the same period of time as Dario’s book.
This story is heavy on the mental part and the lack of any love and understanding of Dario’s parents, and it made me feel Dario’s loneliness. His desperate longing to be accepted, to be perfect for his parents so they will finally notice him and love him. He loses himself along the way, and I think the author did a great job to make me feel so much in such few pages.
I’m looking forward to Gavin’s pov.
I kindly received a free copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest, unbiased review
It doesn’t help that Dario is of mixed race, with his honey coloured skin and bright blue eyes.
He is just happy to have his best friends Gavin and Rayland, and his music teacher Louis and his family, who practically adopt him.
The story ends when Dario is a teenager. The next book is Gavin’s pov, taking place in the same period of time as Dario’s book.
This story is heavy on the mental part and the lack of any love and understanding of Dario’s parents, and it made me feel Dario’s loneliness. His desperate longing to be accepted, to be perfect for his parents so they will finally notice him and love him. He loses himself along the way, and I think the author did a great job to make me feel so much in such few pages.
I’m looking forward to Gavin’s pov.
I kindly received a free copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest, unbiased review
January 9, 2022
short and quick read.. some spots made me super sad but this is a really good book. i cant wait to read more and see where this goes. very good
August 19, 2023
When I first got the audiobook, I didn’t realize how short it was, so I was thrown off by the short chapters initially. I also had a moment of confusion early on trying to figure out the age of the narrator when telling the story because very few 5 year olds know what anxiety is. Once the story got going, though, I was drawn in. The prose reads like poetry, and the audiobook narrator did a wonderful job of bringing that poetic feel to the forefront. Each chapter was a tale of sadness within a story of heartbreak told beautifully.
January 11, 2022
To see more reviews check out MI Book Reviews.
I got an ARC of this book.
This is book one is a seven book series. Don’t worry, I already over committed and agreed to read all seven knowing nothing about this author or this book series. What could go wrong?
So far, just the ending.
The book was quick and felt more like a character study than a book. It was very fast, both in pacing and timeline. It went from 5 to high school in a matter of a few pages. There were little scenes that helped the aging and gave a real sense of who Dario is and what his family is like. I have never felt like I have known a character this intensely before. It makes me stoked for the full length books that come later in the series. I need to know every detail of this kid’s life.
I loved how he had anxiety and his way of handling it was being perfect. He masked. He is so relatable it was painful. I loved how his depression and anxiety were not really explored, it felt like this was an intentional choice. Dario had not explored them, so why would the book explore them? It was a perfect way of handling it. I have no doubt that it will be hashed out in later books.
Everything about this book, except the ending was perfect for me. The ending was just abrupt. It didn’t feel like an ending at all. It just felt like the author stopped writing. There should be so much more after that last scene. Thankfully the next book is already out.
I got an ARC of this book.
This is book one is a seven book series. Don’t worry, I already over committed and agreed to read all seven knowing nothing about this author or this book series. What could go wrong?
So far, just the ending.
The book was quick and felt more like a character study than a book. It was very fast, both in pacing and timeline. It went from 5 to high school in a matter of a few pages. There were little scenes that helped the aging and gave a real sense of who Dario is and what his family is like. I have never felt like I have known a character this intensely before. It makes me stoked for the full length books that come later in the series. I need to know every detail of this kid’s life.
I loved how he had anxiety and his way of handling it was being perfect. He masked. He is so relatable it was painful. I loved how his depression and anxiety were not really explored, it felt like this was an intentional choice. Dario had not explored them, so why would the book explore them? It was a perfect way of handling it. I have no doubt that it will be hashed out in later books.
Everything about this book, except the ending was perfect for me. The ending was just abrupt. It didn’t feel like an ending at all. It just felt like the author stopped writing. There should be so much more after that last scene. Thankfully the next book is already out.
October 22, 2023
I received a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I initially had the opportunity to review a free copy of the ebook of this story, and I passed because at that time, I was not in the mood for what I expected would be drama and heartbreak. Later I got this chance to review the audiobook, and I took advantage of the opportunity. What a story this is! It's a perfect (in a bad way) and sad example of the damage parents can do (whether intentionally or unintentionally) to their children through negligence, lack of love, strict religiousness, and demanding perfection. Dario tries so hard to be perfect, because he thinks it will win him his parents love, but his parents are demanding, homophobic, and just all around toxic, and it makes Dario a bundle of nerves and anxiety. He is so beaten down, he refuses to believe his friends or voice teacher when they tell him how good he is. His lack of confidence and belief in himself is truly heart-breaking. This is a short read/listen, as it is more like a chapter in a bigger story. The next couple stories are told from the POVs of Dario's best friends, then I hope we get to see Dario see and acknowledge himself and his worth. It doesn't happen here. but I hope eventually we'll see it.
The narration was very good, and really channeled the characters' emotions, thoughts, and feelings.
I initially had the opportunity to review a free copy of the ebook of this story, and I passed because at that time, I was not in the mood for what I expected would be drama and heartbreak. Later I got this chance to review the audiobook, and I took advantage of the opportunity. What a story this is! It's a perfect (in a bad way) and sad example of the damage parents can do (whether intentionally or unintentionally) to their children through negligence, lack of love, strict religiousness, and demanding perfection. Dario tries so hard to be perfect, because he thinks it will win him his parents love, but his parents are demanding, homophobic, and just all around toxic, and it makes Dario a bundle of nerves and anxiety. He is so beaten down, he refuses to believe his friends or voice teacher when they tell him how good he is. His lack of confidence and belief in himself is truly heart-breaking. This is a short read/listen, as it is more like a chapter in a bigger story. The next couple stories are told from the POVs of Dario's best friends, then I hope we get to see Dario see and acknowledge himself and his worth. It doesn't happen here. but I hope eventually we'll see it.
The narration was very good, and really channeled the characters' emotions, thoughts, and feelings.
October 19, 2023
This was the first audiobook in the series of seven, and it we started with meeting Dario. He's a troubled child (to say the least), with very strict and overbearing parents, mainly his mother. He is struggling with his identity, as his parents are very staunch, religious conservatives that force their views on their children.
Dario does have a couple of friends, Gavin and Rayland, plus his music lesson teacher, Lewis, who adopted Dario into their family.
This was an extremely emotional listen as Dario lacks love, acceptance, and understanding from his parents, and as the story continues, Gavin begins to drift away. Dario just wants to be accepted by his parents, and his friends, too. The mental aspect of the story is tough as Dario loses his way, and hopefully, he can find himself throughout the journey.
Dario does have a couple of friends, Gavin and Rayland, plus his music lesson teacher, Lewis, who adopted Dario into their family.
This was an extremely emotional listen as Dario lacks love, acceptance, and understanding from his parents, and as the story continues, Gavin begins to drift away. Dario just wants to be accepted by his parents, and his friends, too. The mental aspect of the story is tough as Dario loses his way, and hopefully, he can find himself throughout the journey.
January 25, 2022
An amazing insightful series. I am going to do this series review a little differently, I am making a cover comment and making it the same for all 7 books. I truly enjoyed this series. There is one main character, Dario and all the rest of the amazing characters are his salvation. There are some dark triggers so make sure you check that out, however, if you read this series in order it is well worth it. At first I thought, why not just make it one big book, but once I started I couldn't put it down, except for eating and sleeping. Each player in this well crafted story gives a new and different perspective. Whether they are a saviour or an evil hell bend wretch, they bring this story to life. I highly recommend this series. “I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.”
February 1, 2022
Anyone who works with young people needs to read this entire series. This one particularly hit home for me because I know some people who get so tied up in knots trying to please others that their whole life feels like one big failure as you can never please everyone all the time. As always, Alexander brings the character of Dario to life and your heart will break for him at times as he tries to figure out how to be his own person and how to distinguish selfishness from self-preservation.
October 29, 2023
Really good
I thought this book was really good. It showed a boy Dario going through anxiety, extreme panic attacks, depression, ocd, maybe on the spectrum, and got bullied everyday. It was a good story but also very sad because that’s how mean kids can be and for lots of kids this is their daily.
I’d love to read more from the author!
I thought this book was really good. It showed a boy Dario going through anxiety, extreme panic attacks, depression, ocd, maybe on the spectrum, and got bullied everyday. It was a good story but also very sad because that’s how mean kids can be and for lots of kids this is their daily.
I’d love to read more from the author!
January 29, 2022
As the title suggests this is about Dario from when he was very young until he’s a senior in high school. Let me tell you right now it’s not a happy read. His parents are awful, especially his mom. Also I can relate with some of what he went through. A bigger reminder of why I’d never want to go through any age under 30 again I can’t think of. I’m going to need a break before reading the next one.
January 15, 2022
This is Dario's story but could be anyone of us. The story is about how he struggles with his anxiety and depression Samuel Alexander really knows how to write about mental health issues that can affect anyone.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
February 13, 2022
This is a very short read, but extremely emotional. It is incredibly emphatic and sad, but it also has that tiny stubborn ray of hope in it, that makes it all worth it.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
April 20, 2021
Dario has been struggling to fit in for his entire life. His mixed race background gave him dark, honey-colored skin and striking blue eyes, a combination for which he is chastised mercilessly both by classmates and his own mother. Add to that his parents’ outspoken Christian and homophobic beliefs, and it is a recipe for profound anxiety and depression. Though his close friends Rayland and Gavin are supportive of Dario through their childhood, Dario’s music instructor has the most positive impact on him. Angry, lost, and miserable, Dario must learn to discover and accept who he is if he is to survive.
The first in a series, this short story introduces readers to a turbulent character who has felt inadequate for nearly his entire life. Despite doing everything within his power to gain his parents’ approval, Dario nevertheless feels lacking and cultivates nothing more than a generally antagonistic relationship with them. Unhelpful comments of relying on God to cure Dario’s anxiety complicate Dario’s already fragmented sense of reality.
Dario’s introverted nature is reflected by the limited amount of dialogue and lengthy sections of internal reflection in the narrative of this book. Occasional swearing enhances the dynamics of the story but is not its primary feature. Overwhelmingly, Dario’s struggles with anxiety and depression are palpable throughout this book, making readers want to reach out and support this suffering soul.
Realistically presented, this short story highlights some of the many challenges that come from feeling like a stranger in one’s own skin and having no true place to fit in. The end leaves readers wanting more as Dario begins to see past the clouds of uncertainty obscuring his life. This accessible story is a good fit for young adult readers who are feeling lost themselves; Dario’s thoughts and experiences are raw and honest as he looks to find who he truly is. It is a thought-provoking examination of the complexity of the human spirit.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.
The first in a series, this short story introduces readers to a turbulent character who has felt inadequate for nearly his entire life. Despite doing everything within his power to gain his parents’ approval, Dario nevertheless feels lacking and cultivates nothing more than a generally antagonistic relationship with them. Unhelpful comments of relying on God to cure Dario’s anxiety complicate Dario’s already fragmented sense of reality.
Dario’s introverted nature is reflected by the limited amount of dialogue and lengthy sections of internal reflection in the narrative of this book. Occasional swearing enhances the dynamics of the story but is not its primary feature. Overwhelmingly, Dario’s struggles with anxiety and depression are palpable throughout this book, making readers want to reach out and support this suffering soul.
Realistically presented, this short story highlights some of the many challenges that come from feeling like a stranger in one’s own skin and having no true place to fit in. The end leaves readers wanting more as Dario begins to see past the clouds of uncertainty obscuring his life. This accessible story is a good fit for young adult readers who are feeling lost themselves; Dario’s thoughts and experiences are raw and honest as he looks to find who he truly is. It is a thought-provoking examination of the complexity of the human spirit.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.
April 14, 2020
In Search of a Genuine Smile
Dario (I See Things in Blue Book 1) by Samuel Alexander is an insightful narrative that captures a young boy's struggle to find himself, and yet he is caught in the expectation trap of what his parents want him to be.
Dario craves love and acceptance from his religious and judgmental parents. His journey of being accepted in their eyes and heart takes him on an unhappy path of complete self-denial. This quest for his parent's acceptance and affection has him pursuing things that his parents want.
As a seven-year-old child, he was self-sufficient. He was always prepared for school and needed no prodding from his parents. At this early age, he even ironed his clothes. When his mother indicated that she didn't want a "blob" for a son, he would eat perfectly proportioned amounts of food to be healthy and try to earn his mother's love. Added to the mix of his athletic activities of football and running in the morning is the possible addition of a new discipline when his dad asked if he would enjoy kickboxing.
Additionally, Dario, as he ages, suffers from anxiety attacks and the constant bullying of classmates. Often he would come home bruised and battered.
On one occasion, the family was celebrating at a restaurant because a book deal was in the works for his mother. The celebration was disturbed when Dario's parents took notice of a gay couple having a meal at the restaurant. The parents were quick to express their displeasure. Even Dario himself chimed in and modeled their speaking to the point of capturing their inflection.
The author does a masterful job in capturing the family's dynamics, interaction with childhood friends, and the painful repercussions of parents who don't honor the individuality of their children. Dario (I See Things in Blue Book 1) by Samuel Alexander is a compassionate, caring, and nicely written book that leads to Dario finding himself and to possibly enjoy a genuine smile.
Dario (I See Things in Blue Book 1) by Samuel Alexander is an insightful narrative that captures a young boy's struggle to find himself, and yet he is caught in the expectation trap of what his parents want him to be.
Dario craves love and acceptance from his religious and judgmental parents. His journey of being accepted in their eyes and heart takes him on an unhappy path of complete self-denial. This quest for his parent's acceptance and affection has him pursuing things that his parents want.
As a seven-year-old child, he was self-sufficient. He was always prepared for school and needed no prodding from his parents. At this early age, he even ironed his clothes. When his mother indicated that she didn't want a "blob" for a son, he would eat perfectly proportioned amounts of food to be healthy and try to earn his mother's love. Added to the mix of his athletic activities of football and running in the morning is the possible addition of a new discipline when his dad asked if he would enjoy kickboxing.
Additionally, Dario, as he ages, suffers from anxiety attacks and the constant bullying of classmates. Often he would come home bruised and battered.
On one occasion, the family was celebrating at a restaurant because a book deal was in the works for his mother. The celebration was disturbed when Dario's parents took notice of a gay couple having a meal at the restaurant. The parents were quick to express their displeasure. Even Dario himself chimed in and modeled their speaking to the point of capturing their inflection.
The author does a masterful job in capturing the family's dynamics, interaction with childhood friends, and the painful repercussions of parents who don't honor the individuality of their children. Dario (I See Things in Blue Book 1) by Samuel Alexander is a compassionate, caring, and nicely written book that leads to Dario finding himself and to possibly enjoy a genuine smile.
July 5, 2021
This is a hard review to write simply because I read the entire series before writing a single review. This makes it a little harder to tease out the parts that belong to which story. Let me start by saying these initial stories are like lays potato chips, it is impossible to read just one.
Dario introduce to the merry band of friends in this seven book series. A quick read, this story tells you about our star player white the voice of an angel and parents sent directly from satan. His mother is ill equipped to be a parent and his father follows her like a lost dog. This dysfunctional duo create an anxious, insecure, she’ll of a child who will eventually have to come to terms with the fact that he is gay. But what he lacks in parental support, he has in his best friends, Gavin and Ray, his surrogate father Louis, his siblings, and his future love interest. The next five stories will tell all about the story from their respective timelines.
Bravo to Samuel Alexander for a riveting series and a heart wrenching story about the complications of love and friendship.
Note: this is written in British English so there are “u”s where Americans don’t put them (favour, colour, favourite, etc.). There are genuine editing issues that cause confusion, but it does not detract from the magic of Dario’s story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dario introduce to the merry band of friends in this seven book series. A quick read, this story tells you about our star player white the voice of an angel and parents sent directly from satan. His mother is ill equipped to be a parent and his father follows her like a lost dog. This dysfunctional duo create an anxious, insecure, she’ll of a child who will eventually have to come to terms with the fact that he is gay. But what he lacks in parental support, he has in his best friends, Gavin and Ray, his surrogate father Louis, his siblings, and his future love interest. The next five stories will tell all about the story from their respective timelines.
Bravo to Samuel Alexander for a riveting series and a heart wrenching story about the complications of love and friendship.
Note: this is written in British English so there are “u”s where Americans don’t put them (favour, colour, favourite, etc.). There are genuine editing issues that cause confusion, but it does not detract from the magic of Dario’s story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 8, 2020
Perhaps there is no specific age at which anxiety signs appear in people's lives or real reasons for it . The protagonist, Dario, is only five years old and already suffers from this disorder. His parents do not help him with their constant criticism, they only tell him that it is a defect or weakness in his character. But Dario only wanted them to approve him, to love him.
I think many of us have been through similar situations throughout our lives, but this book really describes in detail what is going on.
The way the author, Samuel Alexander, approached the subject is really moving, but without stopping to show the truth of these situations; how difficult it is sometimes to find oneself.
The narrative of the book is very clear and gives us real details of what happens in the life of our protagonist: the little details that matter, how he feels, his frustrations and his needs.
It is a strong and compassionate story. It is highly recommended for children and people experiencing the same situation.
I will continue reading the stories of this author. He is pious and realistic.
I definitely recommend reading this short novel
I think many of us have been through similar situations throughout our lives, but this book really describes in detail what is going on.
The way the author, Samuel Alexander, approached the subject is really moving, but without stopping to show the truth of these situations; how difficult it is sometimes to find oneself.
The narrative of the book is very clear and gives us real details of what happens in the life of our protagonist: the little details that matter, how he feels, his frustrations and his needs.
It is a strong and compassionate story. It is highly recommended for children and people experiencing the same situation.
I will continue reading the stories of this author. He is pious and realistic.
I definitely recommend reading this short novel
May 10, 2020
A touching story.
What a thought-provoking story! “Dario (I see things In Blue Book 1) was written by Samuel Alexander. He is very fond of writings stories and I dare say that this one is very moving.
As the title of the book says, the story is about a young boy named Dario. Unfortunately, this child has to “struggle” at 3 fronts: his own house, his school and his anxiety. He is not a regular boy since he strives to please his parents all the time. Every step he takes in his life must be according to the family´s beliefs or approvals. At school, he suffers from bullying and therefore from anxiety. It is as is he is an adult in the body of a child instead of being and behaving as a little boy. Dario is a troubled boy who is in a constant quest of himself.
This short book is well-written and explained. It shows a current problem that some children experience through life. It also gives a strong message about anxiety and depression. I believe that it is an interesting book to read and to analyze, too. I thoroughly recommend it!
What a thought-provoking story! “Dario (I see things In Blue Book 1) was written by Samuel Alexander. He is very fond of writings stories and I dare say that this one is very moving.
As the title of the book says, the story is about a young boy named Dario. Unfortunately, this child has to “struggle” at 3 fronts: his own house, his school and his anxiety. He is not a regular boy since he strives to please his parents all the time. Every step he takes in his life must be according to the family´s beliefs or approvals. At school, he suffers from bullying and therefore from anxiety. It is as is he is an adult in the body of a child instead of being and behaving as a little boy. Dario is a troubled boy who is in a constant quest of himself.
This short book is well-written and explained. It shows a current problem that some children experience through life. It also gives a strong message about anxiety and depression. I believe that it is an interesting book to read and to analyze, too. I thoroughly recommend it!
April 22, 2020
“Dario” is the first book in a series called “I See Things In Blue” written by Samuel Alexander, the kind of writer that works in a way that he would enjoy as a reader.
We can guess the main character’s name just by reading the cover of the book. Dario has anxiety and depression problems and that is always trying to do his best to please his parents but fails to do so.
This is a narrative about self acceptance; We can grasp Dario’s feelings and sadness as he can’t reach his main aim: Make his parents happy. The story really touched my heart as we all, in some point in life, see that our behaviour does not meet our parent’s needs and wants.
The writer has a very good writing style and once I started reading the story flew smoothly and fast. It is a very short book that is perfect to read in a single sitting.
I would definitely recommend reading this book and I am eager to keep on reading with the next one in this series.
We can guess the main character’s name just by reading the cover of the book. Dario has anxiety and depression problems and that is always trying to do his best to please his parents but fails to do so.
This is a narrative about self acceptance; We can grasp Dario’s feelings and sadness as he can’t reach his main aim: Make his parents happy. The story really touched my heart as we all, in some point in life, see that our behaviour does not meet our parent’s needs and wants.
The writer has a very good writing style and once I started reading the story flew smoothly and fast. It is a very short book that is perfect to read in a single sitting.
I would definitely recommend reading this book and I am eager to keep on reading with the next one in this series.
May 15, 2020
As the first book in author Samuel Alexander’s I See Things in Blue series, this story tells of Dario, a young man who suffers from anxiety and depression and the constant need to please his parents. Despite trying his hardest, Dario feels that he’s never good enough despite his friends trying to show him that’s not the case. One day, a serious event occurs that makes Dario feel that all is lost. It’s up to him to figure out how to move on and whether he will accept what has happened.
Written for teens and young adults, Alexander uses incredible imagery to help readers fully understand what Dario is going through. The characters are also well-developed and help to make reading this story even more enjoyable. At 46 pages, this book isn’t that long of a read making it ideal for those who want something short. If you’re on the look for a touching story, definitely consider reading this one.
Written for teens and young adults, Alexander uses incredible imagery to help readers fully understand what Dario is going through. The characters are also well-developed and help to make reading this story even more enjoyable. At 46 pages, this book isn’t that long of a read making it ideal for those who want something short. If you’re on the look for a touching story, definitely consider reading this one.
April 18, 2020
Dario suffers from his anxiety and his depression. He also has a strong, persistent urge to please his parents, that forces him to overachieve every day of his life. His parents aren’t very supportive and absent at best. His parents do not give him the acceptance he craves and Dario struggles with feelings of inadequateness and his low level of self-esteem. Dario’s friends try to help him, but its hard to get him to see how awesome he is. Will Dario ever be able to see his self-worth and accept himself for who he is?
As a short book, the ending is left partially open to the readers interpretation. Dario’s situation is very sad, but I do think that there will be many people who can identify with Dario and his daily struggles not just with his parents, but also his struggles at school. Well written and sensitive to the volatile emotions this book will trigger.
As a short book, the ending is left partially open to the readers interpretation. Dario’s situation is very sad, but I do think that there will be many people who can identify with Dario and his daily struggles not just with his parents, but also his struggles at school. Well written and sensitive to the volatile emotions this book will trigger.
April 14, 2020
Dario is the story of a man suffering from depression and anxiety trying to find his way to acceptance. It is an emotionally tough read at points but is a quick, interesting book. It is fast-paced and, despite being a lot shorter than I initially thought, is able to dig into the character and really build more than a paper-thin cliche. Dario has real depth and feels real.
As one who suffers from long bouts of depression and anxiety, much of the story hit home to me. The insecurities, the hopeless and helpless feelings, and the desire for things that seem, at times, unattainable.
Overall, this is an interesting story with a solid character. It’s a quick read that I think is well worth your money and time.
As one who suffers from long bouts of depression and anxiety, much of the story hit home to me. The insecurities, the hopeless and helpless feelings, and the desire for things that seem, at times, unattainable.
Overall, this is an interesting story with a solid character. It’s a quick read that I think is well worth your money and time.
Read
April 25, 2020Original
This story is powerful and realistic. The narrative is told by a character that is strong but deals with mental health issues because of his situation. Dario is introduced as a sweet boy who is confused by the active bullying he is receiving at home and at school. He has severe anxiety from the need to be perfect and fix the things everyone keeps teasing him about. Reading his struggle is a great look into what a lot of children suffer through for being a little different. I really enjoyed reading the book through the eyes of someone who is being bullied and have that character actually have a personality. I liked the book and need part two! I’m hooked!
This story is powerful and realistic. The narrative is told by a character that is strong but deals with mental health issues because of his situation. Dario is introduced as a sweet boy who is confused by the active bullying he is receiving at home and at school. He has severe anxiety from the need to be perfect and fix the things everyone keeps teasing him about. Reading his struggle is a great look into what a lot of children suffer through for being a little different. I really enjoyed reading the book through the eyes of someone who is being bullied and have that character actually have a personality. I liked the book and need part two! I’m hooked!
July 14, 2021
Engaged parenting, matters. Dario, is a hot mess from very early in his life. He does not get the love and nurturing children deserve, so he is a little emotionally malnurished. He struggles with social anxiety coupled with an intense need to please his demanding, overbearing, inconsiderate parents. He travels through life dragging his baggage. His cirucmstances, make him the person he is.Is that a good thing? Does he find his balance? Does he find his muse? Is he stronger, a rock? Does he finally receive the love of his parents? Interesting story. Intense. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 14, 2024
This is for the audiobook version of this book.
Wow! I am a mood reader that tends to stick to the same themes and tropes and avoid others. One that I frequently pass over are tales that are in the "coming of age" category. I have challenged myself to read/listen to books this year that are outside my typical comfort zones and I have discovers a few amazing books. "Dario" is one of the books. There is just so much heart and sadness and fear that start when Dario is 5 and continues to high school. There is so much more I want to know about Dario and his friends that I will be listening to all the books if I can. Highly recommended!
Wow! I am a mood reader that tends to stick to the same themes and tropes and avoid others. One that I frequently pass over are tales that are in the "coming of age" category. I have challenged myself to read/listen to books this year that are outside my typical comfort zones and I have discovers a few amazing books. "Dario" is one of the books. There is just so much heart and sadness and fear that start when Dario is 5 and continues to high school. There is so much more I want to know about Dario and his friends that I will be listening to all the books if I can. Highly recommended!
April 17, 2020
This short book made me emotional
I could not help getting emotional about young Dario's stressful life. He clearly needs a lot of emotional support with signs of more trouble to come when he becomes a teenager. This was a short read as it was laid out like snapshots of Dario's life. There is no real solution presented but glimpses of how things might turnout. If you can tolerate reading about the emotional pain that Dario goes through then you will certainly get deeply involved in this book.
I could not help getting emotional about young Dario's stressful life. He clearly needs a lot of emotional support with signs of more trouble to come when he becomes a teenager. This was a short read as it was laid out like snapshots of Dario's life. There is no real solution presented but glimpses of how things might turnout. If you can tolerate reading about the emotional pain that Dario goes through then you will certainly get deeply involved in this book.
February 2, 2021
A story seen both from deep inside the thoughts and feelings of a growing preteen and narrated as a more mature memory of cause and effect. The profound impact of how personal upbringing shapes personal perception of reality is gradually developed into something not much short of a horror story. Even the hint of light in the final chapter comes in the wake of denial, and foreshadows something possibly wonderful yet probably dreadful.
The end is only the end of a chapter of life, childhood.
The end is only the end of a chapter of life, childhood.
December 29, 2020
Dario is a quick emotional read. It is a story about love, acceptance, and approval. Overall it is well worth the read and recommended for people in similar situations.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2026
This was a good short read. It talks about what some young men and women go through when they find out their sexuality. Will their parents be upset, will they look differently upon them, how will the public view them, will they be accepted. Dario is one of those boys that doesn't realize his sexuality until he gets a bit older. He tries to be the perfect son but all his mom does is criticize him and believes in hard core Christian values. He gets panic attacks and gets depressed whenever his parents think he could be better. They think that if you pray hard enough, then you will be fine.
But Dario is anything but fine. He feels like he must be perfect in order for his parents to love him like he wants. But all he feels is anxiety and not happy. He doesn't want to hate his parents because that's not what a perfect son does. After seeing what he sees through is parent's eyes, he wonders if he will be perfect enough for them. Once his sexuality comes into play, will his parent think he is an abomination or will he accept who he is.
I received an ARC for free and am leaving a review voluntarily.
But Dario is anything but fine. He feels like he must be perfect in order for his parents to love him like he wants. But all he feels is anxiety and not happy. He doesn't want to hate his parents because that's not what a perfect son does. After seeing what he sees through is parent's eyes, he wonders if he will be perfect enough for them. Once his sexuality comes into play, will his parent think he is an abomination or will he accept who he is.
I received an ARC for free and am leaving a review voluntarily.
October 25, 2023
This is a review of the audio version of the story.
I identify with Dario in his paralyzing self-consciousness and the pathological need for perfection in an unhealthy attempt to gain his parents’ approval and love. Hopefully, as the series continues he will break out of the cycle of abuse and self-hatred to find happiness. I’m looking forward to reading the continuation of Dario’s story in the subsequent books of this series.
This short book is obviously just the beginning of a larger coming-of-age tale for Dario. It seems the entire series will need to be read to get any resolution of the title character’s story. Not sure I like the way this story is being split up into tiny portions.
I love Michael Mola’s performance narrating this book. His delivery conveys the emotional impact of Samuel Alexander’s words.
I identify with Dario in his paralyzing self-consciousness and the pathological need for perfection in an unhealthy attempt to gain his parents’ approval and love. Hopefully, as the series continues he will break out of the cycle of abuse and self-hatred to find happiness. I’m looking forward to reading the continuation of Dario’s story in the subsequent books of this series.
This short book is obviously just the beginning of a larger coming-of-age tale for Dario. It seems the entire series will need to be read to get any resolution of the title character’s story. Not sure I like the way this story is being split up into tiny portions.
I love Michael Mola’s performance narrating this book. His delivery conveys the emotional impact of Samuel Alexander’s words.
October 24, 2023
A touching story (an audio review)
I wasn’t certain what to expect when I picked up this short story. I was pleasantly surprised. Possibly because of how much I related to Dario. The little boy who never quite fit in. Who was never quite good enough to win his parents’ approval. Who struggled with depression, anxiety, and an eating disorder while still in his childhood. Who had one special teacher and two good friends who saw him for who he really was. I was quite moved by this piece and I’m looking forward to the other stories in the series.
A special shout out to Michael Mola. I’m not familiar with this narrator, but I thought he did a lovely job. Like I said, can’t wait to listen to the next one.
I wasn’t certain what to expect when I picked up this short story. I was pleasantly surprised. Possibly because of how much I related to Dario. The little boy who never quite fit in. Who was never quite good enough to win his parents’ approval. Who struggled with depression, anxiety, and an eating disorder while still in his childhood. Who had one special teacher and two good friends who saw him for who he really was. I was quite moved by this piece and I’m looking forward to the other stories in the series.
A special shout out to Michael Mola. I’m not familiar with this narrator, but I thought he did a lovely job. Like I said, can’t wait to listen to the next one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews