I am familiar
with J Peters, I had read his first novel (probably first in the school/college
series) Small Fingernails. That novel was more on teenage madness along with a
love story and mental health instability. It was good – how he chased Dorothea
and broke with her was a little embarrassing and uncomfortable for me. But
overall, I enjoyed the author’s conviction and honesty in narration.
His second
novel University on Watch, presumably
a sequel to Small Fingernails is a
terrific knock on the malleable hearts and adamant minds. The protagonist,
written in biographical way, J Peters, this time posing as SUS struggles to get
admission in English Graduate School at New London College. The only sad thing
about the narration was author’s affinity for trouble in the form of drugs and suicidal
attempts. This frustrates many close to him, including his parents;
subsequently, he grows barren and secluded. But still, his will to overcome the
mental health issues seem taking corners when he puts his life for contesting
admission. I always thought America as a modern society, caring more for
students having mental health issues. Well, this book shattered that
perception. Be it any part, they are cornered and hardly anyone who could be
with them when their mood swings for the dark.
Anyway, the
lead character is high on will, madness, teenage rage, and crazy for getting inside
the college. He gallops in and out the college, meets a gamut of in-charges and
helpers, but most of the time, they try to label him unstable or invalid instead
of help. That was frustrating for both – Peters and readers. Written in short
chapters, it makes up literally a fast-paced book, more based on true events. If
you read throughout, you will get to know his entire story, and to understand
it completely without much sweeps and back stories, well then do read the first
part first – Small Fingernails.
Say anything, I
liked his gusto and fight to secure his position in the college society and
campus. Though the events happened a decade ago, going through the book makes
them surreal and as it happened just yesterday. The book has a powerful message
for the people who think that it is best to ignore mentally suffering people to
avoid commotion in the ambience, but they should remember that God doesn’t like
that way. Today it could be any Peters, tomorrow your kids or you yourself. The
title is apt! Short and engaging! Highly recommended! Loved it!
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