Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend by Matthew Dicks

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Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend by Matthew Dicks


Budo is Max’s imaginary friend. He looks like a real person, unlike most imaginary friends, and he is the oldest imaginary friend, at 5 years old, that he knows of. That’s because Max is different and he needs a friend like Budo. Max doesn’t have any friends. He doesn’t talk a lot, look people in the eye, understand sarcasm or many social cues. But he understands Budo. When Max leaves with Mrs. Patterson, one of the teachers that works with Max in the Learning Center at his school, Budo is the one who has to save him because no one else knows the truth behind Max’s disappearance at school. Budo knows Max is alive because he, Budo, still exists. But he doesn’t know what will happen once he rescues Max. Max may not need Budo anymore and if he doesn’t then Budo will disappear, like all imaginary friends must, when their friend no longer believes. That’s a risk Budo will take to save his imaginary friend.
                Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend was a fascinating story about a young boy with Asperger’s Syndrome and the only person that really understands him, his imaginary friend, Budo. The story is delivered through the eyes of Budo, who knows how uncommon it is that he has lasted so long and that his friend’s peculiar nature is the only reason why. Budo doesn’t know why Max is different, but he accepts his differences more than Max’s parent who are constantly trying to change Max. When Budo is faced with the ultimate decision to rescue Max or stay with him, and stay alive, in his imprisonment Budo has to do what is best for Max. But that doesn’t mean it will be easy.
                I thought this novel was well written, easy to read and a fresh look on friendship. Budo offered a new and compelling idea of a friendship. His relationship with Max and their dependence on each other throughout the story was well thought out. Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend was also an interesting examination of a young boy, growing up with Asperger’s Syndrome and the challenges he faces. This story is imaginative, playful and enjoyable.

I give this novel 3 out of 5 stars. As much as I enjoyed this novel, there were repetitive moments that hindered the movement of the story. I also feel like the storyline would have benefited, if the relationship between Max’s parents were embellished and Mrs. Patterson’s mind set expanded on. 

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