Book Review: “Boy Toy”

Reviewed by Allison Robin

Courtesy photo

Allison Robin

“Boy Toy” by Barry Lyga is a fiction novel describing the life of a high school senior boy whose world is far from ordinary.

Five years earlier, his middle school history teacher had been arrested for an inappropriate relationship with a student. With her release from prison and high school graduation quickly approaching, he has more than enough on his plate.

Trying his best to have a normal social life, Josh struggles to make sense of girls his own age. He has not dated anyone since the trial and feels that no girls will want to date him after the scandal.

When there is finally a prospective candidate, his whole world (that is finally making sense) comes crashing down once again. The book follows Josh on his journey to make sense of it all and make the best of his senior year.

“Boy Toy” was disturbing and enticing at the same time. It would certainly be more appropriate for older teens due to the subject matter, and they would also be more likely to find the book relatable.

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, which kept me constantly guessing and, at times, was impossible to put down.

Allison Robin is a junior in the academically gifted program at Hahnville High School. She enjoys art, theatre and reading.

Editor’s note: Book reviews are published weekly during the summer in agreement with Hahnville High School gifted English teacher Deborah Unger in conjunction with the Brown Foundation Service Learning Program.