Genre: YA Contemporary
Publication Date: July 19th 2011
Pages: 288
Book Source: Simon & Schuster GalleyGrab
Synopsis: Olivia, Kelly, Christopher, Jason, and Eva have one thing in common: They’re addicts. Addicts who have hit rock bottom and been stuck together in rehab to face their problems, face sobriety, and face themselves. None of them wants to be there. None of them wants to confront the truths about their pasts. But they’ll all have to deal with themselves and one another if they want to learn how to live. Because when you get that high, there’s nowhere to go but down, down, down.
Review:
This was a really powerful account of 5 teens facing their addictions in a rehab setting. Not a pretty read, nothing sugar-coated, it's honest and raw which adds a sense of intimacy to the story. Yes there's pain, suffering and heartache, yes it's hard-hitting, (I'd be disappointed if it wasn't) and yes there's bad language, the F-bomb is dropped often but none of this felt gratuitous.
The story is told via the first-person narratives of Kelly and Christopher but accompanied by group transcripts and personal essays from all five, the reader gains unique insight into each teen's slide into addiction and the struggle to change their life.
I appreciated the ending, it's not too clean (pardon the pun) or too good to be true ... it's realistic and hopeful; just as it should be. An important read for teens and adults alike.
I'll definitely be reading more from this talented author who's not afraid to tell it like it is.
Want to know more about Amy Reed and her work? - Check out her website.
Want to know more about Amy Reed and her work? - Check out her website.
I like the sound of this cos YA books should be about things like this too
ReplyDeleteGreat review! I haven't read this yet but I have read Reed's debut novel and it was powerful and definitely a book that doesn't hold back. I am looking forward to reading this :)
ReplyDeleteAmy Reed seems like a magnificent writer. I can't wait to read her works.
ReplyDeleteWonderful review! I completely agree with you on the language and graphic nature of the book, I never felt like it was too much it was just perfect for the setting. Loved this book and the story it shared. So good!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a great read! I really find I'm interested in YA books that keep it real. I'm putting this one on my wishlist!
ReplyDeleteI like the sound of a read that remains real. There are so many paranormal stories out lately in the YA book world that it can be great to get back in touch with real life issues. I'm glad you enjoyed this one.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the review :)
I think this is the kind of book I'd like to read. Sometimes YA book are just too superficial so it's nice to change a little bit and read something more powerful.
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