Highly Illogical Behavior Sparknotes

“Highly Illogical Behavior”: A Must Read

John Corey Whaley’s witty banter and creative writing enlightens readers with insight on love, acceptance, and friendship, throughout his award winning book “Highly Illogical Behavior”.
Solomon Reed, a Star Trek obsessed 16 year old, is agoraphobic. Determined to keep his anxiety attacks at a minimum, Solomon hides from the outside world in the comfort of his standard Upland, California home. Presumably invisible to all but the few family members that stand by his side, he is content. Only until Lisa Praytor knocks on his door does Solomon notice the potential for a greater future. Lisa, an aspiring psychologist, is committed to “fix” Solomon. In the midst of her endeavors, she recruits

the help of her overwhelmingly charming boyfriend, Clark. Together their presence offers Solomon a chance at friendship and love, two things missing from the safety of his bedroom. However, as relationships grow and tensions rise, Solomon is left with choices he’s never had to face before.
John Corey Whaley does an amazing job illustrating Solomon Reed’s challenges and eloquently brings them to life.

Using humor, Solomon’s struggles are explained in a light-hearted manner, therefore making the book both a realistic and touching read. For example, Whaley writes, “He hasn’t left his house in three years, he’s not crazy, he’s a genius; just tv and videogames twenty four-seven, I think he’s my new hero…” This qoute, like the many others, honestly depicts Solomon’s situation, and entices a laugh. Highly Illogical Behavior effectively invites empathy in all it’s readers. Yet the book proves to be more empathetic to certain aspects than others. In my opinion, this is because Whaley shares the mental health challenge with his character. Solomon Reed is gay, agoraphobic and has severe anxiety. Although his sexual orientation is relevant to the story, his mental illness is a larger part of what creates the story’s ultimate plot. Solomon’s agoraphobia brought the kids together in the beginning, specifically, his public anxiety attack which concluded with a swim in the school fountain. The only detail which failed to impress was the discontinuance of the budding romance. Throughout the book, Whaley continuously hints at the possible love-interest between Clark and Solomon. At one point, he describes Solomon’s reaction towards Clark when he states, “Solomon had that same look, but not because of the room. He stared right at Clark until he caught Lisa’s eye and snapped out

of it.” Despite that, nothing between the two ever occurs and their possible connection slowly fades.
Overall, I would enthusiastically recommend Highly Illogical Behavior, rating it an 8 out of 10. The book is not only eye-opening, but humorous as well. It realistically depicts the life of a struggling teenage boy, and entertains while doing so. Anyone who enjoys comedy and a touching story will undoubtedly love this read. However, those with their heart set on romance may be disappointed.