A review by ms4321
Punk Rock by Simon Stephens

challenging dark emotional tense slow-paced

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

4.0

I feel like this story would have been more timely if it was set in an American school, especially considering the themes of gun violence. However, I thought the choice to explore how the effects of living with the pressure and expectations of the school system (and the elite private school system) can break kids was an interesting one. 

Stephen Simon does a really good job if writing angry teenagers. He handled the topics of bullying, peer pressure and toxic masculinity really well...especially in the moments where we see the boys in the group of "friends" interact.