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The pacing of this story kept me engrossed and flipping pages but each and every character felt like something lifted directly out of an after-school special.
Rating: 3.5
The characters in this book pissed me the fuck off. But I guess it's because people sometimes act that way. It was really enlightening about all the flaws a person can have. Because mainly, the characters were selfish, self-centered, psychotic, judgemental, and many more. But I guess the author's purpose for writing this book was accomplished, because I do feel more aware of cyberbullying. So, I don't know, this book was easy to read, but the message underneath it is powerful.
The characters in this book pissed me the fuck off. But I guess it's because people sometimes act that way. It was really enlightening about all the flaws a person can have. Because mainly, the characters were selfish, self-centered, psychotic, judgemental, and many more. But I guess the author's purpose for writing this book was accomplished, because I do feel more aware of cyberbullying. So, I don't know, this book was easy to read, but the message underneath it is powerful.
I really want to dismiss this outright as a ham-fisted after school special of sorts, but even adult novels are filled with blunt force cautionary tales, so it's really not fair to single out this young adult title about cyberbullying.
Based on some true stories regarding cyberbullies convincing teens to kill themselves or act out, this story takes place over multiple points of view, both from the aggressor, the victim, and family members of both. The pacing is quick, and the story ultimately wastes no time and holds little back.
Where does this story fall apart a bit? For one, the characters seem less realistic and more like caricatures. The fact that the mother joins in (even though, unfortunately, that is a direct correlation between the tale and the real-life incident that sparked it) feels forced and out of character. The actual character growth feels less realistic and more forced than anything, and the end results feel a little too pat.
I don't know. I get why this book exists and is getting attention, I just also feel like the actual topic perhaps deserves a better treatment. Especially in the wake of more recent incidents of harassment and cyberbullying and the media's irresponsibility in its treatment, it's difficult to simply accept this narrative simply as is, never mind how relevant it may or may not look in a short amount of time.
Based on some true stories regarding cyberbullies convincing teens to kill themselves or act out, this story takes place over multiple points of view, both from the aggressor, the victim, and family members of both. The pacing is quick, and the story ultimately wastes no time and holds little back.
Where does this story fall apart a bit? For one, the characters seem less realistic and more like caricatures. The fact that the mother joins in (even though, unfortunately, that is a direct correlation between the tale and the real-life incident that sparked it) feels forced and out of character. The actual character growth feels less realistic and more forced than anything, and the end results feel a little too pat.
I don't know. I get why this book exists and is getting attention, I just also feel like the actual topic perhaps deserves a better treatment. Especially in the wake of more recent incidents of harassment and cyberbullying and the media's irresponsibility in its treatment, it's difficult to simply accept this narrative simply as is, never mind how relevant it may or may not look in a short amount of time.
This story deals with the important topic of cyberbullying.
Lara attempts suicide after a boy she was chatting with online tells her to kill herself. She survives, but that incident spirals into problems for two different families. Ultimately, the bully gets in trouble for pushing Lara too far, but the story asks the question of who is really to blame for the whole situation.
Cyberbullying is a problem in today’s society. Things that are said online can really affect someone, and cause them permanent damage, just like how Lara attempted to take her own life. However, the bully can turn into the victim when they face the backlash of their actions. This story shows how bullying can spiral out of control and affect the bully’s family.
Lara attempts suicide after a boy she was chatting with online tells her to kill herself. She survives, but that incident spirals into problems for two different families. Ultimately, the bully gets in trouble for pushing Lara too far, but the story asks the question of who is really to blame for the whole situation.
Cyberbullying is a problem in today’s society. Things that are said online can really affect someone, and cause them permanent damage, just like how Lara attempted to take her own life. However, the bully can turn into the victim when they face the backlash of their actions. This story shows how bullying can spiral out of control and affect the bully’s family.
So, so good. Get this one when it comes out at the end of the month. Important topic of suicide/bullying, but smartly written in a way that explores all sides of it, doesn't sidestep the issues, but also doesn't get vulgar or graphic to the point where it wouldn't be appropriate for middle schoolers.
More like a 3.5.
I am so happy I was a teen when social media wasn't huge yet, because after reading this and 13 reasons why, I feel so bad for kids these days.
I am so happy I was a teen when social media wasn't huge yet, because after reading this and 13 reasons why, I feel so bad for kids these days.
Baby's first suburban drama but make it phenomenal
I really liked this book because it dealt with all aspects of cyberbulling. The victim and family and the bully and family. The bullying really does create ripples on a pond and this book illustrates the point very well.
Lara has been talking to Christian for weeks now. She's looking at dresses for the upcoming dance. Then he writes on her Facebook wall that the world would be a better place without her. "Why? What made him change his mind about her? Didn't he like her back?" Those are Lara asks herself as she prepares to end her life.
This book. It's so real. Depression and mental illnesses are horrible and uncontrollable. The things we say have consequences. Siblings still fight no matter that's happening. The Internet is forever.
This book alternates between four points of view: Lara and her younger sister Sydney, and Bree and her younger brother Liam. It gives you perspective into Lara's self worth and dark thoughts, Bree's controlling mom and addiction to social media, and Sydney and Liam wishing they were born into more normal families.
Some people have commented how Liam and Sydney were selfish for caring about homework, school plays, riding the bus, etc... But I thought it was incredibly true to life.
This book. It's so real. Depression and mental illnesses are horrible and uncontrollable. The things we say have consequences. Siblings still fight no matter that's happening. The Internet is forever.
This book alternates between four points of view: Lara and her younger sister Sydney, and Bree and her younger brother Liam. It gives you perspective into Lara's self worth and dark thoughts, Bree's controlling mom and addiction to social media, and Sydney and Liam wishing they were born into more normal families.
Some people have commented how Liam and Sydney were selfish for caring about homework, school plays, riding the bus, etc... But I thought it was incredibly true to life.