Scan barcode
mx_madster's review against another edition
3.0
It was exceptionally difficult to finish this book. The whole time I wanted to take the main character and shake him, as though that would have made any difference. This book is a tragedy, and also a warning about the consequences of not standing up and doing what you know is right.
munchin's review against another edition
3.0
A pretty biting exploration of peer-pressure and cowardice that's ultimately hurt by poorly drawn, cookie-cutter characters.
writingwithink's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Homophobia, Religious bigotry, Gun violence, Ableism, and Suicide attempt
Moderate: Animal cruelty and Animal death
library_brandy's review against another edition
5.0
It took me a little bit at the beginning to decide if I liked this book, but by the time I got to the end, there was no question. It's rare to see a teen book with such a realistic narrator: a high-school sophomore catches two of his female classmates secretly dating, and rather than tell them, he keeps the secret to himself--until the rest of the school, led by a creepy Preacher Kid moving in across the street, starts accusing him of being gay. Sure, sounds very realistic, but usually there's the Big Lesson that the kids learns, apologizes to classmates, and everyone's happy at the end. That's not the case here. Love, courage, betrayal--this isn't a happy story with happy characters. It's troubled, dark, and disturbing--and that's what makes this novel so amazing.
More...