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The Screwed Up Life of Charlie The Second
A quirky gay teenager tries to find his way through life, love, and high school in this “funny, honest and engaging book, told with attitude and style” (Bart Yates).
Being Charles James Stewart Jr.—aka “Charlie the Second”—means that fitting in is something other people do. Tall, gangly, and big-eared, he’s the walking, talking epitome of a teenage geek. An embarrassment to his parents (he’s not too crazy about them, either), Charlie is a virtual untouchable at his high school, where humiliation is practically an extracurricular activity. But what’s driving him truly crazy is that while his hormones are raging like everyone else’s and his peers are pairing off, he remains alone with his fantasies.
Then, a new guy at school begins to liven things up in Charlie’s life. And for the first time in his seventeen years, he learns how it feels to be a star. But even cool guys can have problems—and that’s just one of the lessons Charlie is about to learn on this deliciously sexy, risk-filled journey from which there is no turning back.
“Ferguson’s exuberant portrait successfully re-creates coming-of-age’s dizzy heat” in this offbeat novel about fitting in, freaking out, and surviving the endless perils of puberty (Publishers Weekly).
Being Charles James Stewart Jr.—aka “Charlie the Second”—means that fitting in is something other people do. Tall, gangly, and big-eared, he’s the walking, talking epitome of a teenage geek. An embarrassment to his parents (he’s not too crazy about them, either), Charlie is a virtual untouchable at his high school, where humiliation is practically an extracurricular activity. But what’s driving him truly crazy is that while his hormones are raging like everyone else’s and his peers are pairing off, he remains alone with his fantasies.
Then, a new guy at school begins to liven things up in Charlie’s life. And for the first time in his seventeen years, he learns how it feels to be a star. But even cool guys can have problems—and that’s just one of the lessons Charlie is about to learn on this deliciously sexy, risk-filled journey from which there is no turning back.
“Ferguson’s exuberant portrait successfully re-creates coming-of-age’s dizzy heat” in this offbeat novel about fitting in, freaking out, and surviving the endless perils of puberty (Publishers Weekly).
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2008
29 people are currently reading
1175 people want to read
About the author
Drew Ferguson
16 books33 followersDrew Ferguson received his MFA in Creative Writing from Columbia College, Chicago. His work has appeared in Blithe House Quarterly, The James White Review, Hair Trigger, The Great Lawn and other publications. He lives in Chicago.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
August 20, 2025
✰ 2.75 stars ✰
Hard to believe this was written in 2008. A YA that is pretty much explicit with how hands-on Charlie was constantly borny (sorry, still reeling with the aftershocks of Bunny) was with his Mr. Five Incher. 😐 It was even more surprising that Charlie did not have to hide that he was gay. I never got the impression that he was a nerd; he certainly didn't ever behave as one... 🧐
For even amidst the sneers and jeers, and jarringly blatant homophobic comments and actions, he did move around without that much fear of being bullied (aside from a few questionable actions) here and there. 🥺 Maybe cuz he had such a mouth on him for being a smart-ass. Or that he was a capable and dependable goalie. Or maybe his best friend forever was a straight football jock who probably protected and defended him a lot more than he gave him credit for.
“You don’t have to fight,” I said, holding him more tightly. “I’m here.”
“But you’re not going to fight,” Rob said, matter-of-factly. It hurt, mostly ’cuz it was true.”
The Screwed up Life of Charlie the Second could have very much been a whiny sob fest of Charlie lamenting his sorry state of life - I’m pathetic. Really, truly, sadly pathetic - if not balanced with the right kind of finesse to balance the very much TMI explicit sexual fantasies where Charlie thrived on his raging horniness and struggled with his own conflicting struggles of trying to be more forthright with his feelings. 😔
This was not at all laugh out loud hilarious the way the many praises hinted towards. Charlie's voice was real and brutally candid and crass in his journal entries, but funny? Well, maybe you'd have to be a crude foghorn of a seventeen-year-old to actually see and feel the humor behind whatever he went through, because I failed to. 🤷🏻♀️ In fact, even though at the end, he was slightly more in control of his life - I felt kind of sad and let down.
“So, Casanova,” Rob said, “how would you compliment me?”
I did the only thing I could do. I was honest.
“I’d say I just want to be in the same room as you.”
Maybe I was just holding onto the hope of him and Rob riding off into the sunset together. Rob, new handsome transfer, soccer forward, talented pianist and with his hands and tongue - who introduced him to a whole fresh wave of sex-capades and gave Charlie an awkward but brutally memorable first time that is one for the books. 🥺
But, with Rob's own demons crowding his heart, the sudden serious turn in which their relationship took - it was overwhelming. It erupted in a way I didn't quite expect, and it took the magic and charm out of their newfound romance. And maybe Charlie had to get his heart broken to realize that this was not his only one shot at happiness. 💔💔
“I felt empty, like there was this warm hollow in my chest. I dunno. Maybe that’s the way it is with love. Maybe it’s about wanting something even when it’s gone.”
There's a lot of the usual hoopla of high school drama and madness; some that I'm not even ashamed to admit I kinda glazed over because of the mocking condescending treatment in which Charlie viewed his peers. 😮💨 I'm glad Bink and his family of seven were such a solid support system for him and his own family, especially when the P's were working out their own marriage.
It's sad when I think that Charlie's love life may have fallen apart, but his life steadily was slowly coming together in the wake of it. But I’m actually kinda happy for once. 🥲 That in the aftermath of a rather tumultuous start to his senior year, after the rough waters he steered in between, he finally managed to find his footing to somewhat be stronger and more assured of himself - not quite the screwball he was when he first began. 💟
“Love is a many-splendored thing, love will keep us together, your love keeps lifting me higher. None of it means anything. All I know is it’s not something you can explain.”
Hard to believe this was written in 2008. A YA that is pretty much explicit with how hands-on Charlie was constantly borny (sorry, still reeling with the aftershocks of Bunny) was with his Mr. Five Incher. 😐 It was even more surprising that Charlie did not have to hide that he was gay. I never got the impression that he was a nerd; he certainly didn't ever behave as one... 🧐
For even amidst the sneers and jeers, and jarringly blatant homophobic comments and actions, he did move around without that much fear of being bullied (aside from a few questionable actions) here and there. 🥺 Maybe cuz he had such a mouth on him for being a smart-ass. Or that he was a capable and dependable goalie. Or maybe his best friend forever was a straight football jock who probably protected and defended him a lot more than he gave him credit for.
“You don’t have to fight,” I said, holding him more tightly. “I’m here.”
“But you’re not going to fight,” Rob said, matter-of-factly. It hurt, mostly ’cuz it was true.”
The Screwed up Life of Charlie the Second could have very much been a whiny sob fest of Charlie lamenting his sorry state of life - I’m pathetic. Really, truly, sadly pathetic - if not balanced with the right kind of finesse to balance the very much TMI explicit sexual fantasies where Charlie thrived on his raging horniness and struggled with his own conflicting struggles of trying to be more forthright with his feelings. 😔
This was not at all laugh out loud hilarious the way the many praises hinted towards. Charlie's voice was real and brutally candid and crass in his journal entries, but funny? Well, maybe you'd have to be a crude foghorn of a seventeen-year-old to actually see and feel the humor behind whatever he went through, because I failed to. 🤷🏻♀️ In fact, even though at the end, he was slightly more in control of his life - I felt kind of sad and let down.
“So, Casanova,” Rob said, “how would you compliment me?”
I did the only thing I could do. I was honest.
“I’d say I just want to be in the same room as you.”
Maybe I was just holding onto the hope of him and Rob riding off into the sunset together. Rob, new handsome transfer, soccer forward, talented pianist and with his hands and tongue - who introduced him to a whole fresh wave of sex-capades and gave Charlie an awkward but brutally memorable first time that is one for the books. 🥺
But, with Rob's own demons crowding his heart, the sudden serious turn in which their relationship took - it was overwhelming. It erupted in a way I didn't quite expect, and it took the magic and charm out of their newfound romance. And maybe Charlie had to get his heart broken to realize that this was not his only one shot at happiness. 💔💔
“I felt empty, like there was this warm hollow in my chest. I dunno. Maybe that’s the way it is with love. Maybe it’s about wanting something even when it’s gone.”
There's a lot of the usual hoopla of high school drama and madness; some that I'm not even ashamed to admit I kinda glazed over because of the mocking condescending treatment in which Charlie viewed his peers. 😮💨 I'm glad Bink and his family of seven were such a solid support system for him and his own family, especially when the P's were working out their own marriage.
It's sad when I think that Charlie's love life may have fallen apart, but his life steadily was slowly coming together in the wake of it. But I’m actually kinda happy for once. 🥲 That in the aftermath of a rather tumultuous start to his senior year, after the rough waters he steered in between, he finally managed to find his footing to somewhat be stronger and more assured of himself - not quite the screwball he was when he first began. 💟
April 19, 2011
Hilarious, excruciatingly embarrassing and a dash of teen angst. Really, what else is there?
November 11, 2008
Ferguson, Drew. 2008. The Screwed Up Life Of Charlie the Second.
Okay, so maybe getting my scrawny ass pushed into the back of a Crystal Lake cop car wasn't the smartest thing I've done, but Dana's party last night--it sucked. She should thank me. The only thing anyone'll remember about the party is me getting busted.
What can I say about this one? I think you'll either love it or hate it. If you're looking for a book about the awkwardness and glory of a guy having his first boyfriend--plenty of firsts elaborately and graphically described--then this one may be for you. Not that you have to be looking for that to enjoy it. Drew Ferguson does a great job with characterization in general. From our main narrator, Charlie, to his boyfriend, Rob, to his best friend, Bink, to the families of Rob and Bink. Good characters. Good plotting. This is a nerdy coming-of-age story that no doubt is authentic--the awkwardness of being that age in general, the uncertainty of what to expect out of a more intimate relationship, the bittersweetness of life itself at any age--the loves lost and gained.
The writer is full of humor. But it isn't without heart. Charlie falls--and hard--for Rob. And the joys of learning that that love is returned brings happiness and joy. But it also adds complications. Rob is going through a rough time. His mom is dying (and does in fact die through the course of the novel). And Rob and his father are going through the stages of grief--shock, denial, anger, etc. Charlie is young and inexperienced (in more ways than one). He doesn't know how to deal with Rob's heartaches. Rob is on an emotional roller coaster, and Charlie doesn't know how to deal with the situation. I think few people his age would.
Friendship. Love. Heartache. Life lessons learned the hard way. Not for everyone certainly--no one book is for everyone.
A much better review is at Bookshelves of Doom.
© Becky Laney of Becky's Book Reviews
Okay, so maybe getting my scrawny ass pushed into the back of a Crystal Lake cop car wasn't the smartest thing I've done, but Dana's party last night--it sucked. She should thank me. The only thing anyone'll remember about the party is me getting busted.
What can I say about this one? I think you'll either love it or hate it. If you're looking for a book about the awkwardness and glory of a guy having his first boyfriend--plenty of firsts elaborately and graphically described--then this one may be for you. Not that you have to be looking for that to enjoy it. Drew Ferguson does a great job with characterization in general. From our main narrator, Charlie, to his boyfriend, Rob, to his best friend, Bink, to the families of Rob and Bink. Good characters. Good plotting. This is a nerdy coming-of-age story that no doubt is authentic--the awkwardness of being that age in general, the uncertainty of what to expect out of a more intimate relationship, the bittersweetness of life itself at any age--the loves lost and gained.
The writer is full of humor. But it isn't without heart. Charlie falls--and hard--for Rob. And the joys of learning that that love is returned brings happiness and joy. But it also adds complications. Rob is going through a rough time. His mom is dying (and does in fact die through the course of the novel). And Rob and his father are going through the stages of grief--shock, denial, anger, etc. Charlie is young and inexperienced (in more ways than one). He doesn't know how to deal with Rob's heartaches. Rob is on an emotional roller coaster, and Charlie doesn't know how to deal with the situation. I think few people his age would.
Friendship. Love. Heartache. Life lessons learned the hard way. Not for everyone certainly--no one book is for everyone.
A much better review is at Bookshelves of Doom.
© Becky Laney of Becky's Book Reviews
September 29, 2008
I was torn, do I review this book (and be embarrassed that I actually finished/read it, or just delete it from my list so no one would ever know I picked it up...) Obviously, I choose to review. I was actually excited to read this book, because I went to school with the author. Even the back made it sound a little interesting, and hey, it was my High School, so why not give it a try. Wow - I don't think I've HATED a book this much in a very long time. I found it very offensive (and my book group knows that it takes quite a bit for me to find it offensive :) ), but this was over the top! The author did not develop the characters AT ALL, including the main character. The entire book was about sex - and it got a little old. Okay, okay, he's a horny teenager, I get it, but come on, give the reader some substance. By the end of the book, I was very ambivalent about Charlie - didn't like or dislike him - didn't care. It seems if you are writing from a journal entry view-point, you should be able to present the narrator with all his layers, and the reader should be able to really get to know him, and connect with him and like him. Charlie has no depth, it is all about the next, current, past, or imaginary 'experience'. I have teenage boys and brothers, so I get how boys are, but I also know the author could have given Charlie much more depth. I was so disappointed - and like others who have reviewed this book, I think the back cover did leave out a few important details that would help a reader choose or not choose this book. I find it unfortunate the author didn't take this opportunity to write a great, funny book about high school life but instead loaded down the reader with way too many sexual details ( that were essentially the same over and over and over...) I think this may be one of the only books I actually dropped in the garbage as soon as I finished it- don't want its filth on my bookshelf!
January 7, 2012
For the sake of honesty, I should admit I didn't finish this book even though I have it marked as "read". A couple of factors turned me off of this book. One, I don't really get the sense that Ferguson cares for women as human beings much. Two, we get it, okay, guys masturbate. A lot.
The only likable female characters in the book are Rob and Charlie's mothers. All the girls they go to school with are vain, slutty bitches, and if they do happen to have any redeeming qualities, have fun digging through layers of bad traits for 150 pages first. Oh, and bless them, they're not very smart either. There's Kyle Weir who singularly soaks up all the douchebaggery on the male side of the spectrum, though! With books like these, you're viewing the characters through the protagonist's eye lens, and that's really no fun when said character takes so much delight in loathing women. I could be looking at this the wrong way, though, considering almost all the characters were flat and lifeless.
As for my second qualm... I appreciate the candor? I mean, it's cool. Guys have this carnivorous sexual appetite that can't ever be satiated! But oh my gosh is it boring to hear about it every five pages. Charlie does the five-knuckle shuffle in his bedroom, bathroom, the school library, even into his pillowcase (in which he sucks his own "spooge" out of afterward)... just about anywhere will do! I wasn't offended or sensationalized. It was just monotonous. If Ferguson spent even half as much time developing his characters as he did thinking up creative ways for Charlie to get off, we might have had something here.
The only likable female characters in the book are Rob and Charlie's mothers. All the girls they go to school with are vain, slutty bitches, and if they do happen to have any redeeming qualities, have fun digging through layers of bad traits for 150 pages first. Oh, and bless them, they're not very smart either. There's Kyle Weir who singularly soaks up all the douchebaggery on the male side of the spectrum, though! With books like these, you're viewing the characters through the protagonist's eye lens, and that's really no fun when said character takes so much delight in loathing women. I could be looking at this the wrong way, though, considering almost all the characters were flat and lifeless.
As for my second qualm... I appreciate the candor? I mean, it's cool. Guys have this carnivorous sexual appetite that can't ever be satiated! But oh my gosh is it boring to hear about it every five pages. Charlie does the five-knuckle shuffle in his bedroom, bathroom, the school library, even into his pillowcase (in which he sucks his own "spooge" out of afterward)... just about anywhere will do! I wasn't offended or sensationalized. It was just monotonous. If Ferguson spent even half as much time developing his characters as he did thinking up creative ways for Charlie to get off, we might have had something here.
December 18, 2015
No librarian would have the foresight to seek out a book that catered to young adults who were fairly certain that they were queer, (unless the protagonists exist to endure a cautionary tale—someone mired in self loathing, is constantly harassed and in an attempt to escape decides to move to Frisco, engages in passive bareback sex and dies of AIDS) I'm not sure if YA has changed and the pre-millenial generation now benefit from a variety of books such as "The Screwed Up Life of Charlie the Second) wherein sexual identity is not a source of shame, protagonists are at the mercy of a libido in overdrive and the readers can relate to the universal embarrassment, frustration and relief when a tenacious erection is finally conquered by any means necessary so the urge to go "number three" is assuaged in the secure refractory period for at least a good ten minutes
Charlie is an out gay high school student with body issues and no control or warnings regarding the constant erections that plague him (If this had taken place in the same world as "Gravity's Rainbow" his boners would at least let him know some information regarding an explosive hitting it's target but in Charlie's life they only serve to embarrass). Overall despite being out, Charlie has it better than a large section of those reading his thoughts, especially after meeting another gay kid. A handsome transfer student who happens to be out, shows mutual interest and of course has already made the cut to play on their school's soccer team. This type of high school experience is damn near bucolic, but there's a severe amount of dysfunction regarding the relationships Charlie has with his parents. Especially his father (Whom Charlie refers to as "First". Charlie is reticent, and has already become disenfranchised with going to college, getting his drivers license or showing any effort into academics. He doesn't even have the sense to build an artifice of respect or diplomacy between his parents. His bold lack of interest in... Well, anything they could see as something that may betray his nihilistic front and give them some sort of hope for his future usually ends up with them hopeless, and Charlie is sequestered to the home of his best friend Bink. Bink is straight, Jewish and is the object of Charlie's lustful gaze (but his eyes and imagination are always finding something arousing about most of his peers) Bink and his extended family (notably Binks mother, a withered flower child who is unaware that Charlie's sexuality is not something he is ashamed of and often refers to many notable homosexuals like Oscar Wilde, Lord Byron, Harvey Milk, etc.. etc.. Her attempts at supporting her son's best friend is a constant source of humor). He encounters the guy who will become Charlie's boyfriend at a party, and in his diary like most people, Charlie's criticism of him is equal in desire and cruel observations. Most of his classmates are described with a cruel acerbity, but their treatment of him allow us to delight in shared schadenfreude. When Charlie's interpersonal relationships start to deteriorate (due to a twist so contrived it was distracting) Charlie reveals a vulnerable side while witnessing his Parents marriage begin to dissolve (turning his mother into a co-conspirator-out-of-spite when she decides to take Charlie out on a shopping spree after learning of their financial problems). Charlie relates to his mother when she blames her husband's political ambitions for his neglect, but watching his mother cope with her anger in a self destructive adolescent manner startles him he doesn't want his parents to divorce, and through his mother's actions Charlie begins to feel sorry for "First". The improbable arc that turns Charlie's boyfriend from his first lover to a sworn enemy won't be mentioned, and for a book with a protagonist whose metamorphosis from the person we met to the person we leave is elegantly crafted and hidden within his angst and sarcasm, this aspect is an unfortunate flaw but can be easily forgiven. I was also surprised by how the sexual aspects of the character are documented. His humiliation is palpable but written as someone who was just waiting for his mother to one day catch him masturbating with a phallic object inside him (only to shoot out during his mother's potentially traumatic reaction to the scene she's walked into (instead of quickly processing she'd interrupted her son in the middle of a whack session and closing the door). Charlie sustains a concussion after during a match, , he delights in the rumors that he'd recovered from a more serious malady and the adoration he receives from the people who were collective contributors to feelings of isolation and inferiority. I was pleased with the ending, his ex-boyfriend (who tortured, mocked and hurt Charlie due to revelations derived from that problematic plot twist) asks for his forgiveness, but Charlie's final personal account details his chance meeting with a guy he meets with Bink on their way to a punk rock show. They share a cab, and Charlie's details of the new guy are vague, but he makes it known the new guy "isn't into labels, but is into him". Will this be the first time a straight guy breaks a gay kids heart as he feels he needs to experiment, and the partner might as well be a chemistry set, or will their adolescent love endure a summer of desperate horny encounters. The journal ends but leaves us with an essay Charlie might use to submit to universities. The familar cynicism peppers his paper, but he can't help but reveal that he has grown as a person and no longer rules out the idea of a future where he'll be surprised with moments of contentement, or encounter crisis that relate to things bigger than high school politics, or how to clandestinely masturbate as a means to tame an especially difficult hard on.
Charlie is an out gay high school student with body issues and no control or warnings regarding the constant erections that plague him (If this had taken place in the same world as "Gravity's Rainbow" his boners would at least let him know some information regarding an explosive hitting it's target but in Charlie's life they only serve to embarrass). Overall despite being out, Charlie has it better than a large section of those reading his thoughts, especially after meeting another gay kid. A handsome transfer student who happens to be out, shows mutual interest and of course has already made the cut to play on their school's soccer team. This type of high school experience is damn near bucolic, but there's a severe amount of dysfunction regarding the relationships Charlie has with his parents. Especially his father (Whom Charlie refers to as "First". Charlie is reticent, and has already become disenfranchised with going to college, getting his drivers license or showing any effort into academics. He doesn't even have the sense to build an artifice of respect or diplomacy between his parents. His bold lack of interest in... Well, anything they could see as something that may betray his nihilistic front and give them some sort of hope for his future usually ends up with them hopeless, and Charlie is sequestered to the home of his best friend Bink. Bink is straight, Jewish and is the object of Charlie's lustful gaze (but his eyes and imagination are always finding something arousing about most of his peers) Bink and his extended family (notably Binks mother, a withered flower child who is unaware that Charlie's sexuality is not something he is ashamed of and often refers to many notable homosexuals like Oscar Wilde, Lord Byron, Harvey Milk, etc.. etc.. Her attempts at supporting her son's best friend is a constant source of humor). He encounters the guy who will become Charlie's boyfriend at a party, and in his diary like most people, Charlie's criticism of him is equal in desire and cruel observations. Most of his classmates are described with a cruel acerbity, but their treatment of him allow us to delight in shared schadenfreude. When Charlie's interpersonal relationships start to deteriorate (due to a twist so contrived it was distracting) Charlie reveals a vulnerable side while witnessing his Parents marriage begin to dissolve (turning his mother into a co-conspirator-out-of-spite when she decides to take Charlie out on a shopping spree after learning of their financial problems). Charlie relates to his mother when she blames her husband's political ambitions for his neglect, but watching his mother cope with her anger in a self destructive adolescent manner startles him he doesn't want his parents to divorce, and through his mother's actions Charlie begins to feel sorry for "First". The improbable arc that turns Charlie's boyfriend from his first lover to a sworn enemy won't be mentioned, and for a book with a protagonist whose metamorphosis from the person we met to the person we leave is elegantly crafted and hidden within his angst and sarcasm, this aspect is an unfortunate flaw but can be easily forgiven. I was also surprised by how the sexual aspects of the character are documented. His humiliation is palpable but written as someone who was just waiting for his mother to one day catch him masturbating with a phallic object inside him (only to shoot out during his mother's potentially traumatic reaction to the scene she's walked into (instead of quickly processing she'd interrupted her son in the middle of a whack session and closing the door). Charlie sustains a concussion after during a match, , he delights in the rumors that he'd recovered from a more serious malady and the adoration he receives from the people who were collective contributors to feelings of isolation and inferiority. I was pleased with the ending, his ex-boyfriend (who tortured, mocked and hurt Charlie due to revelations derived from that problematic plot twist) asks for his forgiveness, but Charlie's final personal account details his chance meeting with a guy he meets with Bink on their way to a punk rock show. They share a cab, and Charlie's details of the new guy are vague, but he makes it known the new guy "isn't into labels, but is into him". Will this be the first time a straight guy breaks a gay kids heart as he feels he needs to experiment, and the partner might as well be a chemistry set, or will their adolescent love endure a summer of desperate horny encounters. The journal ends but leaves us with an essay Charlie might use to submit to universities. The familar cynicism peppers his paper, but he can't help but reveal that he has grown as a person and no longer rules out the idea of a future where he'll be surprised with moments of contentement, or encounter crisis that relate to things bigger than high school politics, or how to clandestinely masturbate as a means to tame an especially difficult hard on.
February 7, 2020
I was so so sooo into this the whole way through then it just... ended. Hence the 3 stars. There was no winding down, now gradual end of the climax. Just climax then poof end.
July 22, 2009
One of the funniest, truly laugh out loud books I've read in a loooong time. But warning! I'm not actually recommending this book to everyone, because I totally understand that it's NOT FOR EVERYONE.
It's very crude. A lot of dick-humor, and explicit sex scenes. Personally, I love filthy crude humor, that's just who I am. But I get it that others don't. What's even better about this book is that behind all the crudeness, (and you kind of have to look for this) there is a boy who is so incredibly smart, funny, kind and sensitive. And he really grows and develops and learns in the few months during which this book takes place.
Told in diary form by 17 year old Charlie. This follows Charlie's senior year in high school, where he is a tall, gangly dorky kid who is the image of unpopularity. Um, and he happens to be gay too, which only adds to the fact that he is probably having the worst high school career, EVER. Until......
The new kid Rob shows up. Rob is all the things Charlie isn't. Good looking, popular, rich. But Rob and Charlie fall in love anyway. And it's all sweet until some shit hits the fan and it isn't sweet anymore.
So, if you can stomach a book with nearly every page making a reference to the state of Charlie's junk. And with a crude (but incredibly hilarious) section on Rob taking Charlie's virginity, then by all means read this book. You won't be sorry. If it sounds like it might not be up your alley, it probably isn't. So skip it and save yourself the headache of having to write a negative review.
It's very crude. A lot of dick-humor, and explicit sex scenes. Personally, I love filthy crude humor, that's just who I am. But I get it that others don't. What's even better about this book is that behind all the crudeness, (and you kind of have to look for this) there is a boy who is so incredibly smart, funny, kind and sensitive. And he really grows and develops and learns in the few months during which this book takes place.
Told in diary form by 17 year old Charlie. This follows Charlie's senior year in high school, where he is a tall, gangly dorky kid who is the image of unpopularity. Um, and he happens to be gay too, which only adds to the fact that he is probably having the worst high school career, EVER. Until......
The new kid Rob shows up. Rob is all the things Charlie isn't. Good looking, popular, rich. But Rob and Charlie fall in love anyway. And it's all sweet until some shit hits the fan and it isn't sweet anymore.
So, if you can stomach a book with nearly every page making a reference to the state of Charlie's junk. And with a crude (but incredibly hilarious) section on Rob taking Charlie's virginity, then by all means read this book. You won't be sorry. If it sounds like it might not be up your alley, it probably isn't. So skip it and save yourself the headache of having to write a negative review.
January 14, 2012
Just putting this out there right away, this book is VERY explicit when it comes to sexual matters, particularly solo and with another guy. It is pretty much erotica with plot, and I do mean that in the best way possible because I really did enjoy this book. However, I do think that it pretty much limits the audience due to the amount and detail of sex that happens throughout the book. While I had no problem with it (being a gay man myself), it may make other people uncomfortable reading it. But aside from that, this is a really good book and does handle the various issues it raises very well. Charlie is a character that I relate to pretty well, and some of his thoughts regarding overall issues, such as say, first times in the bedroom, are very similar to my own. He's also very sarcastic and funny, which made the book such a pleasure to read since it's all told through his journal writings. Also, there are a lot of "Awww" moments throughout the book, which were very sweet and romantic and did actually make me say "Aww" out loud several times. While I do like the ending that's there, it's not the one that I would've picked or wanted, but it is the most realistic, so I'm not terribly upset by it. But it does end on a good note, which is always a good thing. Definitely recommended if you don't mind a large quantity of gay sex scenes, and obviously, this will be found in the adult fiction section.
May 23, 2009
Drew Ferguson looks male adolescence unflinchingly in the eye - the penis eye.
Wildly entertaining, with balanced amounts of truth and insight, it's a shame it's not marketed as a YA novel, because young adults could really get some great stuff out of this, both in knowledge and in entertainment. And, that's what it is: a truly punk young adult novel. It takes typical YA fare; first romance, friendships changing, and some sort of life-changing-nothing-will-ever-be-the-same-"problem"-novel-event...and it cranks up the testosterone.
Not in a Jerry Bruckhemier kind of way. In a talking about cum-soaked-socks-and-detailed-descriptions-of-the-random-images-that-got-them-that-way kind of way.
To anyone who's ever lived through, or is currently living through the swamp of thoughts and impulses you think are wrong because no one talks about them: read this book.
To parents who are open-minded and want to know more about what their boys may actually be going through in this modern age (in case you've forgotten): read this book. Then never speak of the things learned from it. Just understand and know what not to ask.
To parents who want nothing to do with youngsters as sexual beings: stay away! Run away! Fast! And wash your hands after even touching this book.
Wildly entertaining, with balanced amounts of truth and insight, it's a shame it's not marketed as a YA novel, because young adults could really get some great stuff out of this, both in knowledge and in entertainment. And, that's what it is: a truly punk young adult novel. It takes typical YA fare; first romance, friendships changing, and some sort of life-changing-nothing-will-ever-be-the-same-"problem"-novel-event...and it cranks up the testosterone.
Not in a Jerry Bruckhemier kind of way. In a talking about cum-soaked-socks-and-detailed-descriptions-of-the-random-images-that-got-them-that-way kind of way.
To anyone who's ever lived through, or is currently living through the swamp of thoughts and impulses you think are wrong because no one talks about them: read this book.
To parents who are open-minded and want to know more about what their boys may actually be going through in this modern age (in case you've forgotten): read this book. Then never speak of the things learned from it. Just understand and know what not to ask.
To parents who want nothing to do with youngsters as sexual beings: stay away! Run away! Fast! And wash your hands after even touching this book.
September 8, 2011
I was very mercurial when it came to deciding whether or not I liked this book. I kept changing my mind, but in the end I decided I really did enjoy it. I think it captures the awkward feelings of high school lust and love quite well. I think the desire to fit in and find someone to love is something we can all relate to.
I will admit, I did find the mentions of sex and self-love a bit explicit. But unlike other readers on this site, I don't think that automatically means this book should get a bad review. Maybe it's not quite my cup of tea, but don't we read fiction to gain insight into others' experiences? I would be a pretty boring person if all I read was contemporary fiction about heterosexual women in their thirties.
I will admit, I did find the mentions of sex and self-love a bit explicit. But unlike other readers on this site, I don't think that automatically means this book should get a bad review. Maybe it's not quite my cup of tea, but don't we read fiction to gain insight into others' experiences? I would be a pretty boring person if all I read was contemporary fiction about heterosexual women in their thirties.
August 27, 2013
Quality LGBT fiction has become a real interest of mine lately, especially fiction for YA readers. I saw this book recommended on a blog and decided to give it a go. Being a bit of a geeky gay myself I thought it would make for an interesting read.
And interesting it was! Charlie is a great character who you side with almost immediately. I found his upfront persona brilliantly refreshing and found his bumpy journey through school and sexuality both hilarious and understandable.
This book does not hold back in its description of gay relations. Whether it be physical or part of Charlie's fantasties, there was very little left to the imagination. Interestingly I found this a good thing as so often gay fiction for YA readers holds back from the fumbles and squishiness of it all. It's important not to demonize the sex act and I think Drew handled this very well.
Characters and relationships all work well throughout the book and it's good to see Charlie has supporters, friends, enemies, people who are not sure how to act around him and the less understanding to deal with.
In my opinion the storyline about Rob's mother and her death felt like it was from another book. It was here that I felt the author may have lost sight of his goal - to show how teenagers can forge sexual relationships and deal with love. Rob's turnaround at the guy he has been besotted with throughout the book didn't really ring true which spoiled it a little for me. This lead to a slightly unsatisfying conclusion as Charlie moves on to the next potential guy.
On a design note I thought the jacket was very poor. The boy on the front looks more 13 than 17 and I didn't get the shirt, tie or post-it notes on the eyes either. An opportunity missed I think.
Overall, it was a good read and one I think would make for great reading at Secondary schools. The biggest plus for the book is showing a gay teen as an 'ordinary' guy who has to deal with all the same school, life, relationship stuff that everybody can relate to.
And interesting it was! Charlie is a great character who you side with almost immediately. I found his upfront persona brilliantly refreshing and found his bumpy journey through school and sexuality both hilarious and understandable.
This book does not hold back in its description of gay relations. Whether it be physical or part of Charlie's fantasties, there was very little left to the imagination. Interestingly I found this a good thing as so often gay fiction for YA readers holds back from the fumbles and squishiness of it all. It's important not to demonize the sex act and I think Drew handled this very well.
Characters and relationships all work well throughout the book and it's good to see Charlie has supporters, friends, enemies, people who are not sure how to act around him and the less understanding to deal with.
In my opinion the storyline about Rob's mother and her death felt like it was from another book. It was here that I felt the author may have lost sight of his goal - to show how teenagers can forge sexual relationships and deal with love. Rob's turnaround at the guy he has been besotted with throughout the book didn't really ring true which spoiled it a little for me. This lead to a slightly unsatisfying conclusion as Charlie moves on to the next potential guy.
On a design note I thought the jacket was very poor. The boy on the front looks more 13 than 17 and I didn't get the shirt, tie or post-it notes on the eyes either. An opportunity missed I think.
Overall, it was a good read and one I think would make for great reading at Secondary schools. The biggest plus for the book is showing a gay teen as an 'ordinary' guy who has to deal with all the same school, life, relationship stuff that everybody can relate to.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2018
This book starts with Charlie getting busted for skinny dipping in someones pool as a dare, and for the rest of the book he doesn't put his penis away
Seriously, I'm not a guy so I wouldn't know, but are you /really/ this obsessed with jacking off? Like every-other-page-cum-rain-or-shine-at-school-outside-at-restaurants-in-church-when-bullied-night-and-day-in-the-literal-face-of-death-obsessed? (the crazy over use of hyphens isn't just because my name reps one and I'm trying to bring them to the masses and make them as cool as hash tags, this is literally how Charlie writes)
There were certain aspects of this book that could have made a more compelling read, but were not developed because we /definitely/ needed another scene about Charlies 5 incher
(I'm not exaggerating when I say every other page had at least a reference to his pecker, but generally more than /just/ a reference. If you can't handle graphic descriptions of busting a nut - and all out sex with his boyfriend - then stay away. There are no signs on this book that it's practically ya erotica..but...well...it is)
Oh yeah, also, I'm pretty sure there isn't ONE instance when talking about a girl his age that Charlie doesn't call them a slut and/or fat. Personally I hate the word 'problematic' and really don't like it when people try to make everything so PC that characters can't have flaws. But even to me it was excessive.
Seriously, I'm not a guy so I wouldn't know, but are you /really/ this obsessed with jacking off? Like every-other-page-cum-rain-or-shine-at-school-outside-at-restaurants-in-church-when-bullied-night-and-day-in-the-literal-face-of-death-obsessed? (the crazy over use of hyphens isn't just because my name reps one and I'm trying to bring them to the masses and make them as cool as hash tags, this is literally how Charlie writes)
There were certain aspects of this book that could have made a more compelling read, but were not developed because we /definitely/ needed another scene about Charlies 5 incher
(I'm not exaggerating when I say every other page had at least a reference to his pecker, but generally more than /just/ a reference. If you can't handle graphic descriptions of busting a nut - and all out sex with his boyfriend - then stay away. There are no signs on this book that it's practically ya erotica..but...well...it is)
Oh yeah, also, I'm pretty sure there isn't ONE instance when talking about a girl his age that Charlie doesn't call them a slut and/or fat. Personally I hate the word 'problematic' and really don't like it when people try to make everything so PC that characters can't have flaws. But even to me it was excessive.
February 24, 2013
A pretty good coming of age novel. I understand that this is Drew Ferguson's debut effort.
This book is written like a personal essay for college entrance turned into explosive personal, tell-all memoir (when I say "like" I am not using a simile, that is a conceit of the book).
I found the character of Charlie the Second interesting and compelling,if slightly unbelievable (he was pretty 'together' for such a dweeb). I also think that his supposedly horrifying existence as a high schooler was fairly mild compared to the experience of the majority of geeks out there. I like that Charlie is gay and mostly out, but Charlie's sexuality was used in the book more for descriptive purposes rather than for definition (and that is a good thing). Charlie's problems are about being a kid on the cusp of becoming an adult, his relationships with his friends, lover and his politician, Assitant District Attorney dad.
Although, perhaps realistic, Charlie's raging hormones and near constant talk of masturbation did get a little tiresome after a bit. There are some sex scenes when Charlie finally gets some that might be inappropriate for some younger readers (as well as all the 'wanking' talk). All in all, a pretty good, often funny, portrayal of a high school kid getting his bearings in life.
This book is written like a personal essay for college entrance turned into explosive personal, tell-all memoir (when I say "like" I am not using a simile, that is a conceit of the book).
I found the character of Charlie the Second interesting and compelling,if slightly unbelievable (he was pretty 'together' for such a dweeb). I also think that his supposedly horrifying existence as a high schooler was fairly mild compared to the experience of the majority of geeks out there. I like that Charlie is gay and mostly out, but Charlie's sexuality was used in the book more for descriptive purposes rather than for definition (and that is a good thing). Charlie's problems are about being a kid on the cusp of becoming an adult, his relationships with his friends, lover and his politician, Assitant District Attorney dad.
Although, perhaps realistic, Charlie's raging hormones and near constant talk of masturbation did get a little tiresome after a bit. There are some sex scenes when Charlie finally gets some that might be inappropriate for some younger readers (as well as all the 'wanking' talk). All in all, a pretty good, often funny, portrayal of a high school kid getting his bearings in life.
December 9, 2008
Charlie is the not only the dork of his senior high school class, is singled out for harassment for being gay, and is a huge disappointment to his father. Not only that, but his best friend since second grade now has a girlfriend, so he finds himself with a lot of time on his hands (and a lot of time with his hands on his dick). When cute and popular new student Rob shows an interest in him, Charlie keeps thinking it must be a mistake, but he soon finds himself with a boyfriend (and even more reason to focus on his dick). Both Rob and Charlie have parent problems: Rob's parents are loving and supportive, but his mom is dying of Lou Gehrig's disease, and Charlie's parents seem headed for a divorce. When Rob's mom dies things blow up for everyone as Rob's father is accused of assisted suicide. A little too much detailed jerking-off action for me, but a realistic portrayal of of horny teenage boyhood, and the fact that it was well-written kept me reading. Obviously a good choice for gay teens.
April 16, 2009
I had never heard of this book and only found it because it was shelved in the wrong section of the GLBT Library I volunteer at. The Screwed-Up Life of Charlie the Second is the first novel by Drew Ferguson. I really loved this book on so many levels and I read it almost one sitting. The story centers around Charlie at 17 year old teenaged high school boy who is struggling to figure out who he is. Charlie like most teenagers struggles with his parents, his friends, and finding the keys to happiness, which is not easy when you are 17. This novel works on so many levels from Charlie trying to find happiness with his first boyfriend Rob, to the consequences of assisted suicide.
Like life, Drew Ferguson does tie everything up in one happy little package, instead his novel illustrates there are always shades of gray and everything is not as it seems. I applaud Drew Ferguson and I look forward to reading his next book, which I hope he is working on.
Like life, Drew Ferguson does tie everything up in one happy little package, instead his novel illustrates there are always shades of gray and everything is not as it seems. I applaud Drew Ferguson and I look forward to reading his next book, which I hope he is working on.
June 15, 2014
This is a good book. I only gave it three stars because
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2009
I absolutely loved this book! It was sweet, goofy, sexy, innocent, clever, funny, sad, romantic, erotic....everything I look for in a boyfriend! I ripped through this book and fell in love with the Character of Charlie. I loved his outlook on life and wished being a gay teenager would have been as "interesting" for me as it was for him. I am happy the way the book ended and I am sad to leave Charlie behind. It was nice to read a book about being gay without it really about being gay and no one was suicidal or dying of an incurable disease....we all aren't Lifetime movies. And speaking of, this would make a WONDERFUL movie. I just watched the trailer for this book and fell in love with it all over again!
May 24, 2011
This was the first gay-themed novel that I think really captured the difficulties of growing up gay and teenage relationships. It was also very graphic, which is realistic and enjoyable to me. The writing is rather well done, particularly for a LGBT novel. And the characters are great; I definitely felt with them throughout the whole book. Definitely something I would read again.
June 21, 2008
While this is a very enjoyable read, and well-written, when I got to the end I didn't feel as if I'd learned anything or had come to feel anything in particular for the protagonist, other than sympathetic. The writing is true but not deep, and the story line contained no surprises.
February 10, 2016
Whoa--Lots of graphic, explicit guy on guy action.....
Very fun that the book takes place in Crystal Lake and mentions many local places including the Colonial Cafe, Routes 14 and 31, the Village Squire, and Julie Ann's.
Very fun that the book takes place in Crystal Lake and mentions many local places including the Colonial Cafe, Routes 14 and 31, the Village Squire, and Julie Ann's.
September 2, 2008
I had a hard time putting this one down, but then, I'm a sucker for gay/lesbian teen romances.
July 9, 2009
One of the funniest friggin' books I have ever read!
August 30, 2018
There was so much to enjoy about this book. For one thing, I loved that it was really unapologetically sexual. I know that sounds weird, but there is so much tip-toeing around sex and sexuality in books that it was almost refreshing to read about a boy who acts and thinks exactly how a hormone-driven boy thinks and acts. Some of it bordered on New Adult territory, but hey, what can you do.
Charlie, though he is teased and bullied, is also kind of a douche in his own right. He's crass and doesn't hold back his opinions of others, even if they're juvenile. That's part of what made him feel so real. I know a lot of people who would read this book and say he was unlikeable, but I found him endearing. He's smart—maybe a little too much for his own good—and is judgmental. But he is also a really passionate friend and tries really hard to be a good boyfriend. And his awkward horniness was laugh-out-loud funny at times (I felt like people were judging me when I would read this in public and literally LOL'd).
I loved Rob from the second he was on screen. Growing up as a closeted gay kid who was on the outskirts of the socialsphere myself, the fantasy of an attractive, popular, out-and-proud boy wanting to date you is the thing of fantasies. And being the hopeless romantic that I am, instantly fell in love with him, and loved him even more as he drew Charlie out of his shell.
And then that ending happened... :::deep breaths:::
***SPOILERS***
I have never gone from loving a character to ABSOLUTELY DESPISING THEM so fucking quickly in my life. Beating the shit out of Charlie for something he couldn't have had any part of (or control over) was bad enough, but then the way he taunted him in school, demeaned him, teased and tried to make him jealous by hitting on other guys... all of it made me loathe him so deep down in my gut that it actually made me a little sick reading the last 50 pages of the book. Being the hopeless romantic I already mentioned above, I fall really hard for couples and really want a happy ending for them. So it tears me up when that doesn't happen. The way that Rob beat him (an emotional punch would've been one thing, but to continue wailing on him, then to kick him in the stomach, in the groin, to go so far) was inexcusable. And then it just kept getting worse over the next week.
It makes absolute sense that Charlie wouldn't want to get back together with him, and I'm glad that he didn't try. There's no coming back from what Rob did, no matter what Rob thought about Charlie's involvement in his mother's death. And I hate Rob for that.
But that's the mark of a gifted writer, to make me feel so many emotions, such love and rage. I'm sad that the author hasn't written any more books (at least, not under this name), as I would've loved to read more by him.
Charlie, though he is teased and bullied, is also kind of a douche in his own right. He's crass and doesn't hold back his opinions of others, even if they're juvenile. That's part of what made him feel so real. I know a lot of people who would read this book and say he was unlikeable, but I found him endearing. He's smart—maybe a little too much for his own good—and is judgmental. But he is also a really passionate friend and tries really hard to be a good boyfriend. And his awkward horniness was laugh-out-loud funny at times (I felt like people were judging me when I would read this in public and literally LOL'd).
I loved Rob from the second he was on screen. Growing up as a closeted gay kid who was on the outskirts of the socialsphere myself, the fantasy of an attractive, popular, out-and-proud boy wanting to date you is the thing of fantasies. And being the hopeless romantic that I am, instantly fell in love with him, and loved him even more as he drew Charlie out of his shell.
And then that ending happened... :::deep breaths:::
***SPOILERS***
I have never gone from loving a character to ABSOLUTELY DESPISING THEM so fucking quickly in my life. Beating the shit out of Charlie for something he couldn't have had any part of (or control over) was bad enough, but then the way he taunted him in school, demeaned him, teased and tried to make him jealous by hitting on other guys... all of it made me loathe him so deep down in my gut that it actually made me a little sick reading the last 50 pages of the book. Being the hopeless romantic I already mentioned above, I fall really hard for couples and really want a happy ending for them. So it tears me up when that doesn't happen. The way that Rob beat him (an emotional punch would've been one thing, but to continue wailing on him, then to kick him in the stomach, in the groin, to go so far) was inexcusable. And then it just kept getting worse over the next week.
It makes absolute sense that Charlie wouldn't want to get back together with him, and I'm glad that he didn't try. There's no coming back from what Rob did, no matter what Rob thought about Charlie's involvement in his mother's death. And I hate Rob for that.
But that's the mark of a gifted writer, to make me feel so many emotions, such love and rage. I'm sad that the author hasn't written any more books (at least, not under this name), as I would've loved to read more by him.
October 25, 2018
I laughed all the way through this book. The writer is very creative with his analogies. This book should not be read by prudes or anyone who thinks sex, especially gay sex, should not be descriptive because this certainly is. Published in 2008 &, I think, supposedly a present example of the view of homosexuality in a H.S. at that time, it was a shock to me having graduated in 1964. A school in an Illinois suburb where the main character is a gay virgin, awkward, self-conscious of his appearance, ignored or picked on by others & starting his senior year, he has developed a sense of humor that is hysterical coping with his predicament. The students' behavior seem more like a junior h.S. than 16 to 18 y.o.'s. The main character is reading from his diary which forms the book. Nice to be able to read about a kid who is able to not take himself so seriously that he is able to not off himself. He does have a few student friends, neighbors & parents who like/love him so he is secure enough to withstand the bullying. I can believe that this may be a story of the authors own experience. Ferguson is the 1st author I have chosen to follow because of his ability to make me laugh so much.
September 18, 2017
The title is a little deceiving...Charlie isn't all that screwed up; he's pretty normal and has a lot more going for him than a lot of high school kids! The story is funny, quirky, and well-written. Though set in contemporary middle America, those of us from the late baby boom era can certainly relate to Charlie's feelings and experiences.
January 20, 2019
At last: a coming-of-age novel written from an 18 year old gay protagonist's point of view. Drew Ferguson's book has a raw honesty that leads to frequent laugh out loud moments, phrases, and scenes. That being said it also has unexpected depth and heart to it. The book is a fast paced, engrossing, and fun read. I hope there's a sequel!
December 21, 2025
Horrifically insensitive MC (like… REALLY bad) but this was a guilty pleasure read. I honestly really enjoyed it and it felt like a time-accurate book, but some plot points didn’t get resolved in a satisfying manner. I wouldn’t have expected the MC to do any significant reflection on things either though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2019
There is so little literature written for/about gay teens, so this book is important in that it is about a gay teenager who is navigating a very awkward adolescence. I never got lost in the story because I was distracted at times by improbable plot twists and overdone writing.
August 17, 2023
I actually liked it
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