GenX Book Club: The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Hosts: Paul Stroessner & Suzanne Mattaboni


In this episode of the GenX Book Club, Paul is joined by fellow
GenX writer Suzanne Mattaboni (Once in a Lifetime) for a
heartfelt, honest, and occasionally hilarious discussion
about The Perks of Being a Wallflower—Stephen Chbosky’s raw
and unforgettable coming-of-age story.


We unpack the novel’s unique letter-based format and how it
allows us to experience Charlie’s inner world with startling
intimacy. Then we turn to the film adaptation—talking about the
pitch-perfect cast (hello, Emma Watson and Ezra Miller), the
soundtrack that’s pure mixtape magic, and those unforgettable
Rocky Horror scenes that made us feel like we were right there in
the audience.


And yes, we get into that tunnel scene… Suzanne couldn’t help but
slip into full-on mom mode at the sight of Sam standing in the
back of a moving pickup truck. (“WHERE ARE THE SEATBELTS?!”)


In this episode:




Why the book’s format hits so hard




How the movie lives up to the source material




GenX reflections on being a "wallflower"




Rocky Horror, David Bowie, and that tunnel scene




If you’ve ever felt unseen, awkward, or like you were on the
outside looking in—this story is for you.


Press play and relive the feels.


 
More from the GenX Book Club Crew

 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in
a Lifetime)
Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited
and onceinalifetimenovel.com
Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com
Follow Suzanne:


Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s

X: @suzmattaboni

Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni



️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1
WEDM FM)
Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback
tunes
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page
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 Email: paul@genxjourneys.net
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Whether you’re a die-hard ‘80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just
someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is
packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes.


 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share with
fellow GenXers!