The Outsiders

[annavere]

One time we were having dinner with David's daughter and somehow The Outsiders came up in conversation. I had never read it. "Stay gold, Ponyboy," she said, and moved on to another topic. The phrase stuck with me.

Well, I've read it now. As the plot took shape, I began to strongly suspect the quote would turn out to be the Newbery Medal moment of the book, and I guessed it exactly right.

I think the biggest shock in the book was when it turned out Ponyboy and Sodapop were named that on their birth certificates. I hope they went on to form a proto-punk garage band with Two-Bit. Ponyboy could write the songs.

I'm trying to post here more often, just keeping my spirits up.

Comments

[yourlibrarian]

I remember seeing the Outsiders film some time ago. When I saw it available again a year or so ago I thought I'd try rewatching since I didn't remember it very well. Noped right out, especially since I recalled some things in it were horrific.

Apparently the "making of" was not a great experience either.

[annavere]

I mean, the book features pretty much endless violence, so I can imagine the film would exacerbate that and make it more visceral. It's not high on my list to check out, even if it does have Tom Waits in a bit part.

[bleodswean]

This is one of my Important Books from my childhood. 11 or 12? It was seminal.

[annavere]

I am aware I've missed the window by a long shot, and can see why it would be very impactful if read in a timely fashion.

[bleodswean]

Right. Plus it was nearly contemporary for me in the 70s.

I have tried to revisit Important childhood books but have found it impossible.

[annavere]

For me, it depends on the book. I've had better luck with them than with childhood movies, at least.