Cut
The Weekly Book Report
Cut Review
Cut
When Callie gets caught cutting herself at school, the school will not let her return without a Doctor’s consent. Her parents force her to go to therapy at Sea Pines, a mental hospital, but Callie chooses not to speak a word while there.
Cut, by Patricia McCormick, portrays a high school student named Callie or S.T. who cuts herself in order to replace her emotional pain with physical pain. Her roommate, Sydney, nicknames her S.T. for silent treatment. Even without speaking Callie makes friends with the other residents who fall into groups such as the “the anorexics”, “the druggies” and the other “cutters”. Her friends make life endurable while she’s there.
Callie continues not to speak until her mother calls to say that Sea Pines will make her leave and give her bed to another girl. She will not get any proof of her getting better, she won’t be able to go back to school. Callie finally realizes its time to help herself.
Written in the first person by Callie and addressed to her unnamed therapist as “you,” this book seems even more personal, almost like a letter. Much of the book shares conversations between “you” and Callie. “You look perplexed.” Page 60 “You mentioned that before.” Page 68 “Well can you, you know, help?” Page 138.
Something new and shocking always pops up that will keep you reading. McCormick writes the story in a way that makes you feel connected to Callie. She can strike an emotional chord when she describes therapy sessions, such as this one.
"I may not want to get rid of my scars," I say finally.
You nod.
"They tell a story," I say.
"Yes," you say, "they do." Page 129.
PUSH Scholastic Inc.
2000
Teen Drama