The Outsiders
by S.E. Hinton

Penguin Group, 1967, 180 pp., $6.99
ISBN 0-14-038572

In The Outsiders, Ponyboy Curtis appears to be an average 14-year-old kid dealing with the regular struggles about finding his place in the world. Truly, he is a very intelligent teenager- a thoughtful person who would rather listen than be heard. Ponyboy is part of the Greasers, along with his two older brothers Darry and Sodapop. Darry gave up going to college and his promising high school athletics to support his family as much as he can after his parents died in a tragic car accident. The Greasers were not formed for fun and games. The Greasers were drawn together because of a common enemy- the Socs. The Greasers are lower class in society compared to the Socs, which are just the opposite. The Socs have cars, money, girls and virtually whatever they wanted. Together the Greasers must risk their lives for each other against the Socs, even if it means death.

The author, S. E. Hinton creates a realistic experience of the violence between these rival gangs that cannot be explained in one word. The story gives many examples of loyalty, honesty and the will for a better life. The Greasers are there for each other when it is needed because they will not let one of their friends get hurt without trying to stop it. They must stay trust worthy through hard times and if all is fulfilled, they might be rewarded with an easier life or all of their hope might be thrown away. The Outsiders gave me an inside perspective on the lives of those who have been through a lot and have lost more than I can imagine.

The Characters who stand out for me are Johnny and Ponyboy. As a young boy, Johnny has experienced more than most and shows us his desire for a real family. Johnny’s parents have neglected him and he has never really had someone who he thought cared about him. His timid personality makes him more vulnerable than other Greasers, but Johnny shows his true character when it is needed. Ponyboy is much more than I expected when I first began reading. I thought Ponyboy was a conservative and observing person, being that he did not strike me as an important character toward helping the Greasers against the Socs. Ponyboy is not physically strong, which is key to defending himself from the Socs, though he is strong mentally. He knows that violence is not an answer, but it is a solution. Ponyboy and Johnny must face their fears and find a way out of their mess- if it’s possible.

I recommend The Outsiders to readers who like to step into the shoes of the characters and take on their lives. The Outsiders is targeted toward teenagers and people who appreciate the work of a young author such as S. E. Hinton. Since Hinton began writing the story at age 15, I believe this gave the author much needed insight into the thoughts and feelings of the young characters. Overall, I believe this book is outstanding and worth reading.

~ reviewed by Mike M.