ashleewardy 's review for:

Crank by Ellen Hopkins

4.0

dark emotional informative inspiring reflective tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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I read a number of Ellen Hopkins books when I was in high school? Maybe even before? But they have resonated with me since…I am about to be 34. 😆 

This book is so interesting because I can honestly say the premise of the story and the impact it had on me as a young reader was profound enough to make me go back and do a reread as an adult. The complexity of addiction and the roller coaster of emotions portrayed in this book are awe-worthy.  

Hopkins, in her own words - “watched her daughter go from [a] talented, beautiful girl with big dreams to a me*h-wasted, twice-convicted felon.” I think Hopkins ability to relate and recount the “highs” (no pun intended) and lows of addiction truly contributes to the depths of addiction. 

Hopkins writes VERY intense books. Her writing style is unique and intriguing and pulls me in right away - that has not changed since I first discovered her novels. I wanted to reread some of her books to see if the impact had changed - and it didn’t. I think that speaks volumes for the type of writer Hopkins is - she can influence readers regardless of age. 

Will definitely be re-reading more! 💙