Running With Scissors by Augusten Burroughs is a darkly humorous memoir detailing his unconventional and tumultuous upbringing. Readers appreciate the raw honesty and wit, though some criticize its shock value and uneven pacing. The book poignantly captures resilience amidst chaos, appealing to those intrigued by offbeat, real-life narratives.

Readers who enjoyed The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls or Prozac Nation by Elizabeth Wurtzel would likely appreciate Running With Scissors. This memoir will captivate those drawn to dark, unconventional coming-of-age stories filled with humor and resilience amidst family dysfunction.

Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs recounts the tumultuous and eccentric childhood of the author, whose life spirals into chaos after his parents' volatile marriage leads to their divorce and his mother hands him over to the care of her unorthodox psychiatrist, Dr. Finch. Amidst a dysfunctional household, Augusten navigates bizarre situations, toxic relationships, and unsettling events in his journey towards adulthood. The source material features graphic depictions of sexual assault of a minor, drug use, discussions of suicide, domestic violence, and derogatory language in reference to people with mental health conditions.

Humorous / Dark / Unnerving / Emotional / Bittersweet

Augusten Burroughs

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Running With Scissors and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Running With Scissors Summary and Study Guide

Background

Running With Scissors Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-5

Running With Scissors Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-11

Running With Scissors Chapters 6-11 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 12-20

Running With Scissors Chapters 12-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-27

Running With Scissors Chapters 21-27 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

Running With Scissors Key Figures

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Themes

Running With Scissors Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Running With Scissors Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Running With Scissors Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Running With Scissors Essay Topics

Running With Scissors: A Memoir

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Running With Scissors?

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Book Details