A review by taliatalksbooks
Cut by Patricia McCormick

challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

 I think this book is incredibly important to talk about especially as we move in to the winter season (at least where I am in New England!). The topics of Cut by Patricia McCormick can certainly be reason for concern, but the way the topics of self-harm and mental health are handled here are actually quite tasteful. While I’m going to be giving this book a HUGE trigger warning, as it is a little graphic for some readers and may cause trauma, I do think having an understanding of what cutting or self-harm means is an important lesson in mental health many are lacking. Individuals who self-harm can struggle finding help, since admitting you inflict pain on yourself to a stranger can be scary, especially if it is a new therapist or councilor. This book follows Cal, who struggles with speaking about what she does, why she does it, and how to get help to stop doing it. While the important part of this journey is the final step for Cal, it’s important for us as readers to see the steps Cal needs to take to get there, or else the ending wouldn’t mean as much. So while I would definitely caution against this book for less mature readers due to the heaviness of the topic, I think this book is an important middle-hound adult book in terms of understanding mental illness in the face of self-harm. 7.5/10 stars

As a page that wishes to ensure the safety of my followers and people who see my posts, I also want to say that, if you, or a loved one, are struggling with your mental health, there are a ton of digital and in person resources across the world that can help, including the National Lifeline for Suicide Prevention (which you can call at 988). You are not alone and you are never beyond help. Call, reach out to someone you trust, and check in on your loved ones. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings