Loser

Losers


By: Matthue Roth
Reviewer: XO/Wizard_P3P, 16
Rating: Loved it!


Social status is a highly regarded aspect in the life of the average life of a teenager. In the six year span from middle school to high school, teens spend most of their time steadily building up their reputations. "Losers" by Matthue Roth explores this idea, while simultaneously attempting to point out that sustaining a spot at the peak of the social hierarchy might not be as satisfying as it seems.

As well as being the book's protagonist, Jupiter Glazer is a Russian immigrant who strives for acceptance at school, within social cliques, and the local cafe. His odyssey leads him to learn the reality of the life he had hoped to one day inherit.

The book does a spectacular job at presenting the material in a very lifelike way. It is rich in dialogue that makes the characters stand out as actual people. Without spoiling the story, I must admit that the story presents his revelation in a surprisingly different, but pleasant way. Most importantly, Jupiter's revelation is astounding for its sheer introspectiveness.

In the author's ambiguous attempt to achieve greatness, he loses sight of his main goal. Once or twice he detracts from the plot. He has Jupiter repair an old friendship, but in reality I thought it was completely pointless. I as a reader could care less for him as a character. Another instance is when Jupiter and Bates are walking in downtown. Somehow the character happens to know a person is speaking Russian, when in fact, he neither spoke it or was able to understand it. I felt it was a slight, but noticeable plot hole that really detracted from the reality of the whole story. 

Except for a few minor trip-ups, the book does an impressive job at presenting itself and the material. The characters are vividly represented and the bountiful dialogue keeps the plot feeling fresh. The intricate relationships between Jupiter and society are enthralling. "Losers" by Matthue Roth is a book I would highly recommend to anyone who wants a refreshing read.