Bad Haircut

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Tom Perrotta introduces a memorable young protagonist, Buddy, in this unsentimental and often hilarious collection of short stories. Set in a working-class town in New Jersey during the overlooked Seventies, Buddy navigates the complexities of race relations, sex, family dynamics, and, of course, haircuts. The decade's cultural landscape, marked by platform shoes, hard rock, and the lingering effects of the Vietnam War, serves as a backdrop to Buddy's universal coming-of-age experiences. Critics praise Perrotta's sharp vision, with Bret Lott noting the refreshing quality of his storytelling amidst a sea of bland narratives. Tobias Wolff highlights the collection's wit and humanity, likening it to Philip Roth's work and recognizing Perrotta as a significant new voice in literature. Buddy's journey to manhood unfolds through encounters with friends and foes like Sammy Rizzo, Neil Duffy, and Cockroach, as they navigate the halls of Warren G. Harding Regional High School, sports fields, and their neighborhood. This world is fraught with challenges such as teen pregnancy and violence, yet it also brims with warmth, humor, and insight. Readers of all ages will find resonance in Buddy's experiences, evoking both empathy and hope.