A review by ravenyoongi
Impulse by Ellen Hopkins

3.5

Yeah this was definitely written in 2007. I liked the premise, but I felt like the free verse poetry’s only purpose was to distract from the simplistic writing. I don’t know, obviously this book represents experiences people can have, but the subject matter compels me to consider the responsibility of authors. Because, sure, people die by suicide, but showing it happen to the only character whose circumstances didn’t change made this end seem inevitable for him, when it wasn’t. And like yeah, it’s good to explore people reconsidering their sexuality even after they’ve labeled it - but having it be the gay guy realizing he actually isn’t gay grates a little (especially considering the comparative lack of representation at the time). Not to mention the racist dad whose beliefs are barely challenged. Yeaaahhh not sure about this one. Glad I got through it though.