kates_books's review against another edition
dark
emotional
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I liked the start of this book — it was a bit slow but an interesting look into the life of a young boy struggling under the weight of his parents’ and community’ expectations. However, the book quickly became quite depressing. . I did like the ending. We finally saw character growth. Overall I feel like my rating is pretty generous. There were times I almost DNF the book, but despite its darkness, I liked that it was a unique story
Spoiler
it was frustrating to watch Neil struggle with various forms of addiction. He once says that he feels to much. But I felt a certain toxic masculinity to this statement. There was no accountability for his actions. No desire to learn how to cope. No emotional intelligence.Graphic: Drug abuse, Drug use, and Addiction
Moderate: Suicide
Minor: Alcohol, Alcoholism, Bullying, Death, and Eating disorder
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