This is a book of slightly interconnected short stories that are all based in Block’s trademark magical realism. It is our world, only there is more to see than meets the eye. Some of the stories have to do with a group of friends, one story focuses on each one. While the stories are definitely very Block, I don’t think they are unusual enough to earn a Printz, but this is the first actual Printz book I’ve read, so I may change my mind later. This is for older teens – much of the magic covers up sex, drugs, and things that younger teens may not want to read. But Block does a good job of leaving things vague enough that most readers will be able to read whatever they want into it. ( )

Dark and beautiful, magical and unexpected.

This book held nine short little stories about love, suicide, and depression mixed with the supernatural. It held the same tempo as all of Block's books and it read fast like most of hers do. ( )

I adore Block's work. Although it sometimes seems very abstract, the imagery and flow of her words is absolutely gorgeous. My favorite story in this particular book was Skin Art.

That said, I wouldn't recommend this to people who weren't fans of Block already. In some ways, it's more difficult to read (although shorter) than her other works. ( )

These stories are richly imagined, intense and passionate. Fantastical and honest, the teenage characters are portrayed with honesty, with beautifully crafted words that flow, bringing an intense feel to the whole book. While the book can be confusing, sometimes brutal, it is a gorgeous read. Not for everyone, but those who enjoy it will savor it for long after.