As I mentioned during Jaime Adoff's visit, I picked up this book several times before really getting into it. It wasn't that I didn't like it - it was just that I'd read so many "problem novels" recently that I wasn't in the mood for more misery. Having worked with urban young people recently, I feel their difficulties particularly keenly. But I am glad I finally did settle down and read the book. Jaime's language is always very expressive. This book is well plotted with a satisfying (if not entirely realistic) ending. He has definitely stepped up here - this book is for a more mature reader than his other books and includes some sex and drug use besides the physical abuse and suicide attempt. I'm so glad that you all got to meet Jaime - he is a terrific writer and a fun guy for sure! The Booklist review commented, "It’s a hard book to read, and even harder to put down."
