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4.09 AVERAGE
4.09 AVERAGE
emotional
hopeful
sad
medium-paced
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Content Warnings
Moderate: Suicide attempt
dark
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Extremely powerful novel in verse for middle grade teachers by Ellen Hopkins. Trace’s older brother Will hasn’t been the same since his head injury in the football field. Their parents split after the accident, and now Will is a exhibiting behaviors that have Trace worried. Ages 10 and up.
Always a big fan of Ellen Hopkins and this middle grade was no different. Trigger warning for drug use and depression, this story follows Trace as he adjusts to a new life after his brother Will experiences an accident. There are many themes in this story, some heavier than others, but it is an important read when it comes to understanding the impact of injury and mental health.
Telling this story in prose added to its impact, I love how creative it can make the storytelling. It also makes it a quick read! I will continue to read Ellen’s work in the future!
Telling this story in prose added to its impact, I love how creative it can make the storytelling. It also makes it a quick read! I will continue to read Ellen’s work in the future!
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
hopeful
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
4.5 stars. Thought this was a great novel in verse that tackled a tough topic (substance abuse) in a way that is approachable for 11+ audience.