Bruiser

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2010

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Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1

Part 2

Parts 3-7

Parts 8-11

Parts 12-16

Character Analysis

Themes

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Background

Authorial Context: Neal Shusterman

Neal Shusterman has written over 30 middle grade and young adult novels. His novels are often dystopian or fantasy novels, such as his best-selling series Arc of a Scythe, which follows two children who train to become Scythes—those who must take human lives in order to keep the world from becoming overpopulated. Scythe examines themes of death, empathy, and corruption, adding a layer of complexity with a dystopian setting where people are immortal and only die at the hands of Scythes. Similarly, his novel Full Tilt (2003) tells the story of a young boy who must ride a merry-go-round and face each of his deepest fears, exploring themes of change, trauma, and finding balance in life despite everything one must face. These novels—and many more by Shusterman—allow young adult readers to explore the complexities of their emotions, often blurring the lines between good and bad.

Bruiser follows a similar pattern, as Shusterman examines empathy through a supernatural lens, exploring what it means to feel compassion to such a degree that it overwhelms. While compassion and empathy are typically viewed as positive traits which young adults are encouraged to show, Brewster’s ability to take others’ pain complicates this idea. He makes the decision to become close to Tennyson, Brontë, their family, and his classmates, despite the consequences of taking all their pain and negative emotions. His gift, which leads to bruising and scarring, shows a physical manifestation of the emotional damage that can occur from unquestioningly taking on others’ trauma and pain. Not only does it harm him, but it also prevents them from dealing with negative experiences and moving forward in their lives.

Genre Context: Paranormal Fiction

Paranormal literature delves into experiences beyond the scope of scientific understanding, involving elements such as ghosts, telepathy, and other supernatural phenomena. This genre often blends mystery, fantasy, and horror to explore unexplained aspects of the human experience. Central features include the presence of supernatural powers, exploration of the afterlife or spirit world, and the involvement of creatures or beings with abilities beyond those of ordinary humans. Themes of conflict between the known and unknown, and the challenge of defining reality, are also prevalent.

Neal Shusterman's novel Bruiser is a work of paranormal literature that explores supernatural themes through the life of its protagonist, Brewster "Bruiser" Rawlins. Brewster possesses a unique ability to absorb the physical and emotional pain of others, a power that is paranormal in that it is inexplicable by natural laws. The novel uses this supernatural ability to drive its plot and develop its central themes, focusing on the moral and personal ramifications of Brewster's powers.

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The exploration of Brewster's ability reflects a typical feature of paranormal literature: the examination of human limits and the ethical implications of supernatural powers. His gift is both a blessing and a curse, providing relief to loved ones at the expense of his own well-being. This duality invites readers to ponder profound philosophical questions about suffering, sacrifice, and the human condition—questions often posed in paranormal narratives.

Additionally, Bruiser taps into the emotional and psychological impact of possessing such powers, highlighting the isolation and fear that Brewster experiences. The fear and secrecy surrounding his abilities underscores the theme of conflict between the known and the unknown, a common element in paranormal literature.