Reality Boy

Written by A.S. King

A book for readers in grades 10 and up reviewed by Jose

    

A.S. King’s Reality Boy is about Gerald, a high school junior who has to deal with the outcome of being aired on a reality TV show called Network Nanny when he was 5 years old. He struggles with anger and familial issues, as well as the reputation he developed from being the main star of the show. Because of his reputation, he is criticized, scrutinized, and treated like a freak by others.

Gerald’s life changes after he meets Hannah, an employee at his job who has familial issues of her own. The two run away together and embark on a journey that leads to their growth. 

I liked Reality Boy because it makes you empathize with Gerald, whose feelings are well illustrated. I liked the flashbacks to his time on Network Nanny because they illustrate his family’s dynamics during his childhood and show what led him to end up being the way he is. Overall, I liked how the book showcased Gerald’s struggles in an immersive way.