In this riveting and heart-breaking book, acclaimed author Matthew Quick introduces Leonard Peacock, a hero as warm and endearing as he is troubled. Most of the time, Leonard believes he's weird and sad but these friends have made him think that maybe he's not. But to his four friends: a Humphrey-Bogart-obsessed neighbour, a teenage violin virtuoso, a pastor's daughter and a teacher. Nor to his former best friend, whose torments have driven him to consider committing the unthinkable. Not to his mum - who he calls Linda because it annoys her - who's moved out and left him to fend for himself. How would you spend your birthday if you knew it would be your last?Įighteen-year-old Leonard Peacock knows exactly what he'll do. This is a MUST read! Highly recommended for high school.A powerful and important book for fans of Mark Haddon, THE SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK and Jay Asher.

Matthew Quick writes a powerful novel of the conflicting mind of teenager with brilliance, bringing into light his main character's life through various literary devices, including verse, letters from a dystopian future, and footnotes giving insight into Leonard's psyche which runs deeper than anyone could possibly imagine. Herr Silverman, Leonard's favorite teacher who stymies him with the reason why he dresses the way he does and is the one encourager in his life, will also get a present But it's Asher Beal, Leonard's once best friend, who will get the biggest and baddest present.he deserves it for how he treats Leonard every day at school. It's what's in those presents, both bad and good, reflecting why Leonard is making this his last day on earth. He plans on giving one to Lauren, the girl who stole his heart while handing out religious tracts near the subway. He also has a present for the most brilliant violinist Leonard's ever heard, an Iranian student named Baback, who allows Leonard in when he practices. Another is for Walt, an elderly neighbor in love with cigarettes and Humphrey Bogart and quite possibly is Leonard's best friend. So today, he has some presents he's giving away to everyone who's made an impact on his life. One is to Linda, his mother, who is never home and takes care of her life more than her son's.

It's Leonard's birthday, and no one knows it.

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