Reviews

A lot of feels coming from this one. Reminiscent of a modern-day Catcher in the Rye. Took me back to a time when I was aware of some of the worst parts of the world, but still relatively innocent from them.

heidisreads's review against another edition

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3.0

The main character in this story is a teenage boy who is raw and unfiltered. I have every reason to believe this fictional character's story could be happening somewhere in the Midwest right now. Families broken by mental health and drug abuse. Schools and communities under-supported because of politicians who think only about bettering their own positions (social and financial).

I received an ALC (advanced listener copy) from the publisher and libro.fm

sullivankc's review against another edition

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reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

machadofam8's review against another edition

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3.0

I enjoyed this.

bibliobethica's review against another edition

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3.0

3.5 The protagonist is finding himself, finding a job, and looking for his uncle. His view of the world and possibilities changes through the course of the novel. Although I didn't love the narrative, there are lots of high schoolers that will enjoy his quirky, cool take on life. Longlisted for the Aspen Words Literary Prize.

ebralz's review against another edition

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3.0

Raw. Emotional. Thoughtful. Weird.

hatseflats's review against another edition

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5.0

2023 is turning out to be a really satisfying year of reading for me. I seem to keep coming across books that I find "amazing" and deserving a 5-star rating. The latest being Opioid, Indiana. Frankly, I am really surprised this novel has not received more buzz. The colloquial writing style was brilliant in putting you into the mindset of a Trump-era teenager. Though I can't say I know any actual teenagers, i can definitely imagine they would sound (and think) like Riggle in the story. In some ways, I found Brian Allen Carr's work reminded me of Bobby Hall's debut novel Supermarket. Another book that I found brilliant but somehow seemed to get the snub from a lot of literary critics. Oh well, there's no accounting for taste, is there? Earlier this year, I read Barbara Kingsolver's Demon Copperhead, which also dealt with the issues of poverty and the opioid crisis in America. As much as I think her epic work is brilliant, I had a much more enjoyable reading experience with Opioid, Indiana.

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