The Good Son: A Novel

The Good Son: A Novel - Todd Strasser "The Good Son" is an example of a direct novelization that worked extremely well in its basis from the movie, and even added a few key scenes that were missing from the movie that helped identify the characters within it better. On the whole, however, the characters were clearly defined, the setting established strongly, and the diction very sound and easy to follow.The story revolves around a young boy named Mark who goes to stay with his relatives after his mother's death. But his world changes as he gets to know Henry, a boy who seems to take pleasure in a number of so-called accidents, even holding a fascination with death that makes Mark very weary of him. However, when some of these accidents at Henry's behest become very prominent, Mark tries to warn everyone around him that something's "not right" with Henry. Alas, this is not taken very well by the people around Mark, to the point of simple dismission to hostile disbelief. I felt sorry for Mark throughout this work because it honestly portrays his sense of futility in the situation, and compares very well to the movie. Henry is just downright evil - alluring when the reader first comes to know him, but by the time several of these "accidents" take place, you gain an understanding of just how twisted he is.The final tense scenes of this book still resonate with me today, even years after I've read it. It's a great story, and very well told in the alternating spurts of tension, suspense, and portrayal of its cast.Overall: 3.5/5