Hate list

Ever felt completely left out of a group OR at blame for a huge even, which, in reality, you didn't have anything to do with? Or which you actions were misinterpreted? Like a book that makes you cry?

THIS book is for you.

I don't know how people who have never experienced the above situations would feel about this book, so I can't speak for them. But, if those descriptions resonate with you and you enjoy a good cry, than you will love this book.

I feel refreshed. (The making me sob part moved it from 4 to 5 stars; so take that into consideration when thinking about whether you think a good cry is pleasant and relaxing or not!) ( )

Valerie Leftman is a normal teenage girl dealing with a situation that upset the normalcy she was accustomed to. Early May of her junior year of high school, her boyfriend Nick Levill opened fire on their classmates in the school's common area. He targeted people that were on the "Hate List" he and Valerie had compiled, killing several people and wounding many others--including Valerie--before killing himself.

Now it's senior year, and Valerie is trying to work through the pain along with the rest of her classmates. The problem is that many of them blame Valerie for the shooting. With the school against her as well as much of the town (including her own parents), how is Valerie supposed to heal and move on?

A compelling read, Jennifer Brown's debut novel was relatively fast-paced and engrossing. The characters are well-developed and interesting, complete with flaws. While it is technically an "issue" novel, Brown is able to navigate the actual event in a way that doesn't sensationalize it and instead chooses to focus on the aftermath in a real way, shying away from the idea that everyone instantly changes for the better in a show of complete, unwavering solidarity.

Highly recommended to adults and teens alike. ( )

I found myself solidly in Val's corner as she struggled to move on with her life by returning to her high school which had been the scene of the traumatic shooting of her classmates by her boyfriend Nick. Despite the multiple heart-breaking moments, I did not find myself writhing in teen-age angst as in other similar titles. Great characters, great voice, great book. ( )

My blog post about this book is at this link. ( )

Wow! Just Wow! I could not put this book down! It was emotionally heart wrenching and completely unforgettable! I read this novel a few days ago and can not stop thinking about it. I love how the main character progresses in her healing process! This novel brings to life the hardships of high school and what bullying can really cause. I think this book should be on the curriculum for all schools! If you have not had a chance to read this story yet, I would highly recommend running out to get it!!!!!! ( )